The 50th anniversary of Earth Day comes at a challenging time for everyone. Whilst COVID-19 is causing disruption to the event, Wiser Environment celebrates the key developments in the waste industry. The way we manage our waste has been transformed over the past 50 years, with the introduction of great new technologies to move waste away from landfill disposal. There is much work to do and many further technologies are in various stages of development. Nevertheless, the waste industry should be proud that these innovations help reduce environmental harm.
Since 1970, the Earth Day event has stood up for environmental protection and climate action. 2020’s Earth Day theme is to highlight action on climate change; promoting the switch to green power. To support this event, Wiser Environment is celebrating its progress to establish clean power technologies at waste sites in the UK.
Wiser Environment works with many clients across the waste and resource industry. Wiser’s primary goal is to always help businesses grow and prosper through responsible operations. As an example, Wiser is collaborating with a closed non-hazardous landfill operator and overhauling the landfill into a clean energy plant. Echoing the Earth Day enthusiasm for change, Wiser and the operator have seized the opportunity to go above and beyond.
Clean energy
Instead of sticking with a traditional means of returning a non-hazardous landfill to land for beneficial use, the decision was made to innovate. Specifically, Wiser Environment and the client aims to create a platform for economic and ecological growth through carbon-neutral energy solutions. Such innovations include a solar-battery hybrid system that stretches over 4 hectares; an anaerobic digestion plant that converts food waste into energy; and ground source heat pumps that will maintain the site’s treatment plant temperature.
Wiser Environment has also helped businesses establish biomass boilers and reduce waste being sent to landfill. For example, Wiser supported a coffee recycler in gaining an Installation Permit for their advanced biofuel demonstration facility in Cambridgeshire. The application process required comprehensive pre-application and post-application liaison with the Environment Agency. Nevertheless, the challenge was worth the effort; this facility the first of its kind worldwide.
The installation of innovative and sustainable technologies at waste sites are examples of the climate action Wiser Environment is taking. Climate action does not always have to be a resource drain. Alternatively, climate action can become a platform for an integrated waste recovery solution that benefits the community.
Take part in Earth Day 2020
Wiser Environment encourages everyone to celebrate Earth Day 2020 and stand up for the planet. The event is set to be held across many digital platforms on the 22nd of April. Visit the Earth Day Network for discussions and presentations. Of particular note, the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce is hosting a selection of presentations on sustainability policies and how to increase eco-friendliness.