Assessment of Energy Recovery Potentials of Solid Waste Generated in Mbeya City, Tanzania

This paper presents an assessment of the energy recovery potential of solid waste generated in Mbeya City, Tanzania. Through a comprehensive analysis of waste composition, available technologies, and socio-economic factors, the study aims to provide insights into the feasibility and benefits of energy recovery initiatives. A study in Tanzania found that waste streams can be used for energy recovery processes. In Mbeya City, Tanzania, food waste is the largest fraction, followed by plastic bottles. The study analyzed the energy potential of municipal solid waste (MSW) in Mbeya City, focusing on food waste and plastic bottles. The study found that food waste can be reduced through composting, recycling programs, public awareness campaigns, and food recovery initiatives. Plastic bottles can be managed more effectively through improved recycling infrastructure and reusable containers. The study analyzed the energy potential of municipal solid waste (MSW) in Mbeya City, focusing on food waste, plastic bottles, and plant trimmings. The total MSW generated is 3254.5 kg/day, with food waste being the largest fraction at 62.4%. Reducing food waste can be achieved through composting, recycling programs, public awareness campaigns, and food recovery initiatives. Plastic bottles can be managed more effectively through improved recycling infrastructure and reusable containers. The study also estimated the energy recovery potentials of MSW in Mbeya City, Tanzania, based on their calorific value. High energy recovery materials like plastic bottles and nylon are ideal for incineration, while moderate materials like textiles, paper, and leather are suitable for energy recovery processes. Composting and anaerobic digestion can be effective for food waste and plant trimmings, producing biogas and compost. Anaerobic digestion technology offers renewable energy and nutrient recycling, with an ERP of 1,998,858,351 MWh/day, enough for the city’s electricity demand.