Building knowledge on Energy from Waste through online learning

The role of Energy from Waste (EfW) technologies in waste management solutions across the globe is a growing, constantly evolving issue, particularly in the face of global environmental challenges and increasing pressure to transition towards a circular economy.

EfW refers to the process of generating energy, usually in the form of electricity or heat, from waste materials. These technologies include incineration, anaerobic digestion, gasification and pyrolysis (among several others), each offering unique pathways for converting waste into usable forms of energy or raw materials.

For chemical engineers, a robust understanding of EfW is no longer optional; it is a strategic necessity. In the chemicals processing industry, EfW is particularly relevant due to the large volumes of by-products and waste streams generated during production. Traditional disposal methods (such as landfilling) are not only environmentally unsustainable but also represent a loss of potentially valuable energy and materials. By integrating EfW technologies, chemical plants can:

• Improve energy efficiency by recovering heat or generating power from waste;
• Reduce reliance on fossil fuels; and
• Comply with evolving regulations focused on waste reduction, carbon intensity, and energy management.

Chemical engineers are ideally positioned to lead EfW innovation. Their technical expertise enables them to design and optimise systems that maximise energy recovery and minimise pollutants. They also play a pivotal role in scaling up emerging technologies and ensuring they meet industrial, economic, and environmental standards.

Recognising that many of its members are involved (directly or indirectly) in waste management operations, the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) identified a strong interest among its members in an introductory-level course covering EfW.

To meet this need, our circular economy consultants worked with IChemE to develop an online, on-demand introductory course delivered by Resource Futures experts that provides a comprehensive exploration of EfW. The course covers an overview of the technologies involved, the policy landscape, and the implications and real-world impacts of various EfW solutions.

Creating a comprehensive framework of information

To ensure the course met the needs of professionals seeking a well-rounded understanding of EfW, a four-unit framework was established. This structure includes:

• An overview of EfW technologies such as incineration, gasification, pyrolysis and anaerobic digestion.
• An analysis of how the policy landscape has evolved and influenced global technological development and deployment.
• The environmental, economic, health and social implications of various EfW technologies.
• The business case for EfW plants, supplemented by real-world practical examples.

The course content was primarily developed through extensive desk research and literature reviews, complemented by interviews with waste management experts. This approach ensured the course incorporated reliable industry insights while maintaining academic rigour.

To ensure that the course was relevant for chemical engineers, considerations and impacts on the chemicals processing industry were embedded throughout: outlining key impacts, risks and opportunities so that those taking it will be armed with the industry-specific knowledge they need to consider and evaluate EfW solutions.

Several multimedia elements – such as recorded audio transcripts, pop quizzes, case studies and video content – were included to ensure an interactive learning process and keep learners fully engaged with the content, while a final assessment was also incorporated to reinforce learning outcomes and measure understanding.

Empowering chemical engineers to make better decisions

The result is a high-quality, peer-reviewed online course that offers a structured, yet flexible, learning experience for chemical engineers with minimal prior knowledge of EfW technologies.

Going beyond just being an introduction to the topic, this course equips professionals with the tools they need to make informed decisions regarding EfW solutions in their work, helping them take into account the environmental, social and economic impacts of these choices.

By bridging the gap between technological insights and practical applications, the IChemE course ensures that chemical engineers are well-equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of waste management and contribute to sustainable industrial practices.