enfinium, a prominent operator in the UK's energy from waste (EfW) sector, has unveiled a comprehensive strategy aimed at decarbonizing its operations while also facilitating large-scale carbon removal initiatives. This initiative is intended to support the UK in reaching its net zero targets.

Supported by an investment program exceeding £1.7 billion, the 'Net Zero Transition Plan' outlines Enfinium's strategy to attain net zero status for its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2033, a significant advancement compared to the waste industry's target of 2040. These initiatives, propelled by the implementation of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology at Enfinium's UK sites, will facilitate the generation of hundreds of thousands of tonnes of lasting carbon removals starting from 2030, escalating to 1.2 million tonnes annually by 2039.

The UK presently produces approximately 27 million tonnes of non-recyclable waste annually. Government projections indicate that even if the UK achieves its ambitious recycling goals by 2042, there will still be over 17 million tonnes of non-recyclable waste generated each year. Enfinium's plan is pivotal for the UK to decarbonize its waste management practices and attain its net zero target by 2050.

Approximately half of the non-recyclable waste generated in the UK consists of biogenic content, encompassing organic materials like food waste, plants, and soiled paper or card, which have already absorbed CO2 from the atmosphere. By implementing CCS technology at Enfinium's energy from waste facilities, this CO2 can be effectively captured and permanently stored, preventing its release into the atmosphere and leading to a net carbon removal process.

According to Mike Maudsley, CEO of Enfinium: "Presently, enfinium utilizes non-recyclable waste, which would otherwise end up in environmentally harmful landfills, to produce domestically sourced, low-carbon energy. By implementing carbon capture technology, we can expand our efforts and eliminate over one million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually.

"The concept of carbon removal presents a unique opportunity for the waste sector on a global scale. Through bold leadership and collaboration with governments, we can spearhead a credible and cost-effective approach towards achieving zero emissions and fostering green growth."

In addition to implementing CCS for carbon removal, the Net Zero Transition Plan outlines Enfinium's commitment to assisting local communities in achieving net zero for their operations. This involves initiatives such as developing heat networks, producing electrolytic hydrogen, and supplying carbon-negative electricity directly through private wires. Enfinium's facilities will serve as central components of localized 'decarbonization hubs', offering domestically sourced, baseload power to nearby users.