Review of Waste to Energy Policies in South Africa and International Comparisons

Review of Waste to Energy Policies in South Africa and International Comparisons

This report is a review of the Waste-to-Energy (WtE) policy in South Africa within the framework of the IEA Bioenergy Task 36. In addition, drivers and barriers in the implementation of WtE solutions in different counties (i.e.,Germany, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Sweden and United States of America) are also presented and discussed. The purpose of this review is to provide countries with inspiration and support in implementing suitable policies and solutions in the waste-to-resources management and WtE sector that would facilitate their transition towards circularity.

It can be concluded that, in general, from the comparison among the Task 36 countries, the various drivers and barriers identified in the policy frameworks, from development to implementation appear very similar despite the socio-economic and geographical disparities. It is acknowledged that all stakeholders need to work together to ensure the successful implementation of Waste-to Energy technologies. South Africa has progressed in the development of strategies aimed at expanding the waste and energy sector, but there is still vast potential in creating a specific waste to energy management framework. In countries with further developed Waste-to-Energy implementation, every level of government is involved in setting and implementing the criteria for the permitting process of WtE projects while the local municipalities are responsible for the management and monitoring process. Best practice from the international policy review suggests having a locally drafted specific and fully aligned waste-to-energy policy and roadmap to advice all levels of government and stakeholders. Waste-to-energy policies can be a driver in motivating and supporting WtE projects if they are developed in consultation with all levels of government and relevant stakeholders being included in an open and deliberated process.

Link to the full report here

Link to the 2-page summary  here

For more details, contact Task Member Cristina Trois.