Municipal solid waste incineration plants burn non-recyclable waste to generate energy, reducing landfill use and supporting resource circularity. However, this process releases significant carbon dioxide (CO?). By incorporating carbon capture technology, emissions can be substantially reduced, transforming waste management into a sustainable solution. Sulzer’s technology addresses this by capturing CO? from the incineration process.
At the Hinwil facility, Sulzer will install a pre-assembled modular carbon capture unit designed to capture up to 1,000 tons of CO? annually from flue gas. The captured carbon will be repurposed for use in a nearby greenhouse, showcasing efficient resource utilization. This pilot project is a critical step toward validating the technology for KEZO’s future MSWI plant, which could scale up to capture 120,000 tons of CO? per year, contributing to Switzerland’s net-zero goals.
The initiative is primarily funded by KEZO, with additional financial support from the Canton of Zurich. KEZO is also providing its infrastructure and operational expertise to gather insights for the large-scale plant’s development. This collaboration highlights a shared commitment to sustainable innovation.
Dr. Suzanne Thoma, Sulzer’s Executive Chairwoman, stated: “We are pleased to partner with KEZO, already a strong contributor to the circular economy, to advance carbon capture for waste-to-energy applications. This partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to innovation for transformative progress as we invest in tangible solutions that align environmental stewardship with economic development.”
KEZO Managing Director Daniel Böni said: “This project shows how established industries like waste management can evolve to play a vital role in decarbonization through technology and strategic collaboration.”
The project underscores the potential for waste-to-energy facilities to reduce environmental impact while supporting circular economy principles. By testing and validating carbon capture technology at Hinwil, Sulzer and KEZO aim to establish a scalable model for sustainable waste management, aligning with global efforts to address climate challenges through innovative solutions.
