Energy Recovery from Municipal Solid Waste (Waste to Energy) in Salvador and Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil

Abstract

The generation of municipal solid waste (MSW) is closely related to the number of inhabitants and their income levels. Population growth increases MSW generation, causing economic, social, and environmental problems that the energy recovery of this biomass could mitigate. This solution is not only energetically viable but also economically attractive and environmentally beneficial, as it contributes to reducing the generation of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in landfills, thereby extending the useful life of these facilities. This work sought to identify in the literature the necessary characteristics for energy recovery from MSW and the properties of such waste in the metropolitan regions of Salvador and Feira de Santana, Bahia. Based on this analysis, new studies will be developed to investigate the composition, calorific value, and moisture content of the waste, as well as to assess the feasibility of implementation in other regions of the state. The method used included a literature review and consultation of relevant institutions in the field.