Nowadays, responsible waste management is a critical challenge for both industry and society. There are various waste treatment systems available on the market—but do we truly understand the downsides of each one? Let’s take a closer look!

Landfilling

This is the least environmentally friendly waste management option. The risks associated with storing waste in landfills include:

  • High pollution potential: Risk of soil and water contamination, leachate generation, and greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Impact on wildlife: Disruption of bird migration patterns and the risk of fatal dietary exposure.
  • Safety hazards: Possibility of fires or explosions.

According to the ISWA report, 40% of global waste ends up in landfills—where just the 50 largest sites affect the daily lives of 64 million people.

Energy Recovery

Also known as Waste-to-Energy (WtE), energy recovery aims to convert waste into usable energy. The most common method is incineration, or combustion with excess oxygen. This process:

  • Generates highly toxic emissions, causing significant harm to the planet and living beings.
  • Can release nanoparticles that affect the bloodstream and lungs.

Thermal Valorisation

In this case, the goal is to generate new materials from waste. Pyrolysis is one of the most common technologies used, as it is less polluting and more energy-efficient than the previously mentioned methods.

Pyrolysis: A Key Technology

Pyrolysis is a thermal degradation process in the absence of oxygen that transforms waste into materials that are easier to manage—such as biochar.

Alignment with the Circular Economy

European guidelines, in line with circular economy principles, promote a waste management model based on the 7Rs: Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Refurbish, Recover, and Recycle.

SBS: A Trusted Partner in Sustainability

Within this framework, SBS is a solid bet for circular economy strategies. Its waste treatment facilities—such as the pyrolysis plant—enable thermal valorisation, helping organizations meet their sustainability goals.

Together, we can build a more sustainable future for our planet.