COMPARISON OF THE ENERGY RECOVERY AND USAGE OF COMPOST FROM GREEN WASTE: WHAT IS THE IMPACT ON PRIMARY RESOURCES?

The German Biomass Regulation (§2 and §3) allows the use of bio and green
waste for energy recovery, including electricity generation. This implies governmental support
for energy recovery of this waste. The sponsored amount – calculated through the calorific value
– ranges between 85 and 160 €/t. The aim of the governmental promotion is to substitute primary
resources by using renewable primary products – particularly to generate a positive effect on the
greenhouse gas situation with regard to power generation. A positive influence on greenhouse
gases emissions can also be achieved through the material recovery and use of green waste –
especially as compost and a turf-substitute – although this procedure is currently not supported in
Germany. A direct comparison of the two alternatives is not available in the current scientific
literature. The research project includes the creation of a database containing all relevant data
about green waste and its products, amongst others soil conditioner, substitute for fertilizer, turf,
fuel from biomass etc. especially under the aspect of carbon dioxide. In addition a comparative
balancing of different technical plants is elaborated. The research project, already examined by
the Universität Stuttgart, in cooperation with Humus and soil cantor (HEKO), Neu-Eichenberg is
financed by the EdDE (Entsorgungsverband der Deutschen Entsorgungswirtschaft).