Turning a Liability into an Asset: The Importance of Policy in Fostering Landfill Gas Use Worldwide
Introduction
Landfill gas (LFG) is often viewed as a liability due to concerns about explosions, odors, and climate change. However, LFG can be turned into an asset through effective policies. Many countries capture LFG as a strategy to improve landfill safety, reduce odors, generate electricity, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and earn GHG reduction credits.
Background
- Methane as a Greenhouse Gas: Methane, the major component of natural gas, is 21 times more effective than CO2 at trapping heat in the atmosphere over a 100-year period. It accounts for 16% of global GHG emissions.
- Sources of Anthropogenic Methane: Methane emissions result primarily from human activities such as fossil fuel production, agriculture, biomass burning, and waste management. Energy and waste-related activities contribute approximately 36% of global anthropogenic methane emissions.
Key Points
- LFG Mitigation Technologies: Various technologies exist to mitigate LFG emissions, including capture and combustion systems.
- Barriers to Increased LFG Use: Barriers include technical, financial, and regulatory challenges.
- Policy Importance: Effective policies are crucial in overcoming barriers and encouraging LFG utilization.
- Types of Measures: Financial incentives, awareness campaigns, and technological demonstrations are some examples of measures being used.
- Global Policies: The International Energy Agency (IEA) uses its Global Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Measures and Policies Database to identify and discuss policies that stimulate LFG use.
Conclusion
This report aims to highlight the importance of policies in fostering LFG use and provides insights into successful strategies implemented by certain countries. It concludes with lessons learned and recommendations for further study.
Source: International Energy Agency (IEA), January 2009.
