Can Waste-to-Energy (WTE) Power A Sustainable Future?

Prepared by  Aliya Waheedah

22nd April 2025

In Malaysia, more than 39,000 tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) are disposed of daily, which equates to roughly 1.17 kg per person, of which over one-third is food waste. Malaysians waste 8.3 million metric tons of food annually, around 260 kg per person(1). 

The reliance of landfills and rising volume of waste raises crucial environmental and sustainability concerns that demand immediate action. Waste-to-Energy (WTE) has been proposed as an alternative to current waste management efforts, yet it only represents one part of a broader solution. 

Waste-to-Energy (WTE) is a system in which non-recyclable waste materials are converted into usable heat, electricity, or fuel via an extensive process(2). WTE technologies lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduce waste. While its methods offer a cleaner and sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based energy generation(3), WTE implementations are not fully exploited in many countries, including Malaysia.

The Case For Waste-to-Energy: A Key Solution For Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Waste-to-Energy (WTE) not only generates partially renewable and fully renewable energy, but it also reduces methane emissions. According to recent studies(4), WTE plants generate over 50% of their energy from renewable sources, playing a crucial role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels across transportation, heating, and electricity sectors. 

WTEs continuous generation of renewable energy make it a reliable and flexible source for supplying electricity to grids. Additionally, WTE can generate low-carbon and renewable fuels (such as methanol and hydrogen), thus contributing towards meeting the set renewable targets and climate goals(4). 

In lower-income countries, food and other organic waste form a larger percentage of burned municipal solid waste (MSW) compared to higher-income countries, where plastic often dominates(5). A WTE plant can effectively manage urban waste by reducing the volume sent to landfills, contributing to better air quality in cities. WTE can also prevent uncontrolled waste dumping, leading to improved public health outcomes, reduced water pollution, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. 

A WTE plant has an integrated waste management system where waste is segregated, recycled, and processed efficiently, making it an effective method to achieve Goal 11 of the SDGs. Rather than see waste as an afterthought, we must view waste as an integral part of the circular economy. As mentioned in SERI’s article on trash workers(6), this could be an opportunity to formalise them into a workforce where they can help in waste segregation, ensuring that only non-recyclable waste is processed for energy. By sorting waste, it can help reduce the risk of hazardous materials from entering WTE plants and releasing harmful emissions. A program can be developed especially for trash workers to encourage involvement in waste management, thus elevating sustainability efforts.

Case Studies and Global Trends

Neighbouring countries like Singapore have successfully implemented the Waste-to-Energy (WTE) system. TuasOne is one of Singapore’s Waste-to-Energy plants that’s replacing operations of the decommissioned Tuas Incineration Plant (TIP), as it’s designed for higher heat recovery from waste incineration and higher electrical power generation efficiency(7). The plant is built to reduce landfill waste, with over 98% of it either being recycled or converted into energy, and 2% going to the Semakau Landfill. 

In Malaysia, Waste-to-Energy projects should attract more investors and key industry leaders. According to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), any local or foreign investors who are interested in providing facilitation and support for the green technology industry will receive an Investment Tax Allowance. This initiative is to recognise the importance of environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles. Incorporating it in the business operations will encourage Malaysia to lead an inclusive and sustainable green economy(2). 

Besides that, waste segregation remains imperative to fully utilise the Waste-to-Energy plant. Countries like Japan and South Korea ensure that only non-recyclable waste goes to the WTE plant. South Korea is also famously known for having the world’s best waste management system. 

The South Korean Government combats the increasing issue of single-use plastic by introducing waste sorting and recycling as a solution. The South Korean government also issued several waste management policies, which are: Volume-based Waste Fee (VWBF), Pay As You Trash, and Extended Producer Responsibility(8). These policies prove to be vital in encouraging and allowing the public to participate in the circular economy. However, these efforts are only effective if the community, government, and industry players collectively ensure their successful implementation, which is how the South Korean government succeeded.

Malaysia’s government should take an active role in trying to implement a similar initiative. For instance, the upcoming construction of the Sungai Udang Landfill Waste-to-Energy plant could be a beneficial pilot project for other states to follow suit, with the federal government approving the budget for the plant’s construction. Additionally, the Melaka state government has also introduced a programme called the You Recycle, We Pay Programme, an ongoing initiative since 2023 to encourage residents to recycle(9). Enforcing stricter regulations or policies can be a starting point for Malaysians to improve living standards and support a sustainable future.

Challenges and Voices against Waste-to-Energy (WTE)

Despite its potential benefits, Waste-to-Energy (WTE) faces several challenges, particularly in developing countries where financial constraints and high investment risks hinder large-scale adoption. The initial capital costs of setting up WTE plants, along with operational and maintenance expenses, and the bureaucratic aspects of it often deter governments from prioritising such projects. 

One of the primary criticisms of WTE technology revolves around potential environmental impacts, particularly air pollution and carbon emissions. While modern Waste-to-Energy plants are equipped with advanced filtration and emission control technologies, concerns about dioxins, heavy metals, and greenhouse gas emissions persist. 

To address this, Malaysia must ensure that only non-recyclable waste is sent to WTE plants and that stringent environmental monitoring policies are enforced. Furthermore, integrating carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies and improving waste segregation at the source can significantly reduce pollution risks.

However, opinion from climate activists in Malaysia differ with some even suggesting that WTE projects are a wasted opportunity. Zero-waste hierarchy should be the essence of waste management instead by focusing on prevention first rather a cure that might lead to more pollution (10). According to these activists, future projects involving WTE plants would only increase environmental injustices toward Malaysia.

Waste-to-Energy (WTE) Onwards

The excessive usage of landfills and the increasing amount of municipal solid waste produced each year prompts the government and relevant ministries to take immediate action by investing in Waste-to-Energy (WTE) plants. Despite pleading with the government to reconsider the decision, some of the projects are ongoing. The future of WTE lies in technological innovations and policy support. New advances such as plasma gasification, anaerobic digestion, and carbon capture, promise to make WTE cleaner and more efficient. 

Governments and organisations must adopt progressive policies to promote WTE as a complementary part of a circular economy. This includes developing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, offering incentives for industries to invest in green technologies, and ensuring strict environmental oversight of WTE facilities. 

Moreover, public-private partnerships (PPPs) should play a vital role in ensuring the sustainable adoption of WTE by leveraging both government support and private sector innovation.

A successful WTE system should also incorporate programs to support waste workers, particularly those involved in waste collection, sorting, and recycling. Training and upskilling programs can ensure that waste workers are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a more technologically advanced waste management system. Additionally, creating better working conditions and offering livelihood support to these workers can help foster a more inclusive and equitable transition to modern WTE systems.

Conclusion

For Malaysia to have a truly sustainable circular economy, Waste-to-Energy (WTE) should be a supporting tool, not the main waste solution. Recycling, composting, and waste reduction must come first, and WTE should only be used for waste that cannot be reused or recycled. By focusing on waste minimisation and ensuring that WTE facilities use clean and efficient technologies, Malaysia can create a balanced waste management system that reduces landfill dependence and promotes a sustainable future. 

With the landfill and waste reduction issue, venturing into this kind of project is long overdue. Even then, the environmental impact of it should be considered further. Collaborations and studies mainly for this issue should be conducted within the region so each nation could benefit from it. Industries, NGOs and relevant stakeholders can play an important role in bridging environmental injustice with the sustainable future. 

Lastly, as a call to action, policymakers should implement supportive policies, including stricter waste segregation laws, EPR regulations, and incentives for green technologies. Businesses must embrace sustainable practices and invest in WTE innovations while minimising waste. 

Individuals can contribute by adopting responsible consumption habits, recycling, and supporting sustainable waste initiatives. Together, these actions can help Malaysia build a sustainable and circular economy where Waste-to-Energy is used wisely and responsibly.

References :

1. International Trade Administration. (2024, March 29). Malaysia Waste Management. https://www.trade.gov/market-intelligence/malaysia-waste-management#:~:text=Malaysia%20disposes%20of%20more%20than,annually%2C%20about%20260kg%20per%20person.

2. Malaysian Investment Development Authority. (2023, January 9). Waste-to-energy: The preferred approach for Malaysia’s waste management. MIDA. https://www.mida.gov.my/mida-news/waste-to-energy-the-preferred-approach-for-malaysias-waste-management/ 

3. Atstaja, D., Cudecka-Purina, N., Koval, V., Kuzmina, J., Butkevics, J., & Hrinchenko, H. (2024, August 22). Waste-to-Energy in the Circular Economy Transition and Development of Resource-Efficient Business Models. MDPI, 17(16). https://doi.org/10.3390/en17164188 

4. European Suppliers of Waste-to-Energy Technology. (2021, December 23). How Waste-to-Energy delivers on renewable energy targets. ESWET. https://eswet.eu/how-waste-to-energy-delivers-on-renewable-energy-targets/ 

5. Sterling Thermal Technology. (2025, February 26). The role of waste-to-energy in renewable power. Sterling. https://www.sterlingtt.com/2022/04/12/waste-to-energy-renewable-power/ 

6. Ng, C. (2025, February 22). Trash to Treasure: Empowering Informal Waste Workers for a Sustainable Future. Social & Economic Research Initiative. https://www.seri.my/trashtotreasure 

7. Ng, M. (2022, July 27). New TuasOne plant takes over decommissioned Tuas Incineration Plant. The Straits Time. https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/new-tuasone-plant-takes-over-decommissioned-tuas-incineration-plant 

8. Saraswati, A. W. (2023, May 31). South Korea’s Waste Management System is Exemplary! Greenaration Foundation. https://greeneration.org/en/publication/green-info/south-koreas-waste-management-system/ 

9. Malay Mail. (2025, February 22). Melaka to build waste-to-energy plant at Sungai Udang landfill starting mid 2025. MalayMail. https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/02/22/melaka-to-build-waste-to-energy-plant-at-sungai-udang-landfill-starting-mid-2025/167623 

10. Thing, S. S. (2024, January 27). Malaysia’s Waste-to-Energy plans are a wasted opportunity. Greenpeace. https://www.greenpeace.org/malaysia/story/51862/malaysias-waste-to-energy-plans-are-a-wasted-opportunity/