Toro Energy

Landfill Gas To Energy

As each of us becomes increasingly aware of our impact on the environment, or carbon footprint, we tend to look at things such as how much fuel our cars use or what temperature we set our thermostats to. As well intentioned and helpful as these practices are, we as a society generate the leading anthropologic greenhouse gas emissions by the refuse we create. Each person in the United States generates approximately 4.5 pounds of solid waste per day, or almost one ton per year, most of which is deposited at privately owned or municipally owned landfill sites. As landfill waste decomposes in an oxygen deficient environment, it produces landfill gas (LFG), which is an ozone depleting pollutant as well as an explosive hazard if left uncontrolled. However, because LFG is approximately 50% methane, this renewable resource can be a valuable source of energy and what was once considered a liability can now be turned into an asset, creating a win-win for the landfill, community, industrial customer and the environment.