Transforming Organic Waste into Clean Energy: A New Approach

The disposal of organic waste has long posed significant environmental challenges, particularly due to its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and the degradation of ecosystems. Industries, seeking to address this issue, often turn to waste treatment solutions that come with high financial and energy costs. Unfortunately, this leads many companies to prioritise cheaper methods, often at the expense of sustainability. As a result, environmental accidents and an increase in emissions are common outcomes. 

In response to these challenges, researchers from the Water, Sanitation, and Sustainability Study and Research Group (GEPASS) at USP’s School of Arts, Sciences, and Humanities have developed a groundbreaking solution. This project, known as the Stackable Bioelectrochemical System for Electricity Generation, is designed to transform organic waste into clean energy. Marcelo Nolasco, an environmental management expert and professor at USP, coordinates the project and highlights its potential to help industries minimise environmental damage while advancing the global energy transition.

Sustainable Waste Management through Innovative Technology

The newly developed system leverages microorganisms to break down organic waste, such as sewage and industrial waste, into electricity and hydrogen. Nolasco explains that the technology specifically targets biodegradable substances, allowing microorganisms to consume and process them. While it may not work for non-organic materials like those in metallurgical industries, the system represents a significant step forward in reducing the environmental footprint of waste disposal.

Unlike conventional treatment methods, which often require a large amount of energy, this system produces electricity instead of consuming it. Nolasco emphasises that industries, especially in sectors like sugar and ethanol production, can benefit greatly from this technology. He points to cases where improper disposal of waste, such as vinasse from sugarcane, has led to ecological disasters, including the deaths of fish in the Piracicaba River. This new system, if implemented, could prevent such incidents while also generating renewable energy.

As the project moves forward, further testing on a larger scale is required. Nolasco notes that collaboration with industries will be key to its success, as scaling the technology to practical use will require industrial partnerships and pilot testing. He adds that although initial investments in sustainable innovations may seem high, the long-term benefits for both companies and the environment are substantial.