By Virak Kchao
December 15, 2008

During the Strategies for Reducing Green House Gases for the Solid Waste and Environmental Professional session, speakers discussed the factors that lead to the problem of climate change and exchanged ideas on what could be done to help mitigate the problem.

A new innovative technology developed by InEnTec shows some promise in being able to handle our countries growing solid waste issue. The technology uses a Plasma Enhanced Melter (PEM) in order to totally break down the waste into simpler compounds, which can later be converted into a liquid fuel. It is a very safe, non-incineration technology that provides great output in comparison to the energy it uses to operate. The most valuable asset of using the Plasma Enhanced Melter is its ability to convert any type of waste into a valuable product. The process begins by taking the bio-feedstock and gasifying it, then purifying the gas and having energy recovery. In the end, the gas is then converted in a liquid that can be used as a fuel. Some metals and glass do result as byproduct.

The system is able to convert roughly 250 tons of solid waste per day. Another beneficial factor to the Plasma Enhanced Melter system is its ability to be deployed in cities with ease. The melter can also be configured to convert the waste into a variety of fuels. Solid waste volume is greatly reduced after the process and ending up as liquid clean fuel. Smaller modules can also be located near landfills which would decrease the need of transportation fuel, costs, and C02 emissions.

An alternative to reduce green house gases is to use natural gas as an energy source. By taking tons of gas produced by landfills and converting them into useable gas, t there is an 88% reduction in green house gases, sad Sean Wine, Account Manager for Clean Energy Fuels. About 97% of natural gas can be attained here in the U.S. The technology can vastly reduce NOx and particular matter reduction which is green and renewable. Domestic natural gas has a supply predicted to last over 140 years. A vast network can be implemented to transport the gas efficiently and safely. Most importantly, green jobs will be created by increasing the use of natural gas.

Linda Giannelli Pratt, Chief Program Manager for the City of San Diego was able to discuss the city's initiatives to reduce Greenhouse Gases. The city is the 8th largest in the U.S. and growing rapidly, giving it a difficult task to reduce its emissions. In addition collecting landfill gas and using it for energy the city has partnered with local companies and organizations technical and policy support. The city has also implemented a new ISO 14001 certified system to help with the cities management of fuel and vehicles. Photovolatic energy generation is also used around the city to power its buildings. The city is constantly implementing new strategies and ideas in order to green its city.