Tezpur University – New Research Reveals How Everyday Waste Can Be Converted into Renewable Energy
Tezpur |
A groundbreaking research study from Tezpur University has demonstrated that the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (MSW)—including food waste and garden residues—can be effectively transformed into clean, renewable energy products. The findings offer a sustainable solution to India’s growing waste management challenges while strengthening the concept of a circular economy, where waste is treated as a valuable resource rather than a liability.
The study was conducted by Ms. Mondita Athporia, PhD Scholar, Department of Energy, Tezpur University, under the supervision of Prof. Rupam Kataki. The research outcomes have been published in two reputed Elsevier journals — Fuel and Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy.
Addressing a Global and National Waste Challenge
Globally, more than two billion tonnes of municipal solid waste are generated annually, with projections indicating a sharp rise by 2050. In India alone, daily MSW generation exceeds 160,000 metric tonnes. Improper handling of the organic component of this waste often leads to severe environmental pollution, methane emissions, and health risks.
Pyrolysis: Turning Waste into Energy
The research focuses on pyrolysis, a thermochemical process in which organic waste is heated under controlled, low-oxygen conditions. Unlike open burning or incineration, pyrolysis converts waste into three valuable energy products:
- Bio-oil – a liquid fuel
- Biochar – a carbon-rich solid material
- Non-condensable gases – combustible gases remaining after cooling
By carefully controlling the heating rate and reaction conditions, the researchers gained detailed insights into the chemical transformations involved—an essential step toward scaling up waste-to-energy technologies.
High-Quality Fuel and Soil-Enhancing Biochar
The study revealed that the bio-oil produced contains higher carbon and hydrogen content with significantly reduced oxygen levels, resulting in a higher heating value. Notably, its hydrocarbon composition shows similarities to conventional fuels such as diesel and gasoline, indicating strong potential as an alternative energy source.
The biochar obtained exhibits a porous structure with enhanced surface area. When applied to soil, it can improve soil structure, enhance nutrient retention, and promote beneficial microbial activity, offering additional environmental benefits.
Supporting Sustainable Infrastructure Development
The researchers also quantified the energy requirements for converting organic waste into these products. Such data is crucial for designing efficient, economically viable waste-to-energy plants and supporting policy-level decisions for sustainable urban waste management.
Toward a Sustainable Future
This research presents a viable alternative to the traditional “take–make–dispose” model by converting environmentally harmful waste into valuable resources. Diverting organic waste from landfills can significantly reduce methane emissions, create renewable energy streams, and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Research Publications (DOI)
- Fuel: 10.1016/j.fuel.2025.136484
- Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy: 10.1016/j.scp.2024.101822
Contact
Prof. Rupam Kataki
Department of Energy, Tezpur University
📞 9435380921
