Evaluating Waste-to-Energy As a Sustainable Solution For Municipal Solid Waste Management in Buea Municipality, Cameroon

Abstract

Energy is a necessary component of global technological advancement and human development. However, continued reliance on fossil fuels is unsustainable and environmentally harmful. In this context, the World Energy Outlook (WEO) provides vital analysis and projections for global energy trends. This research adopts a systematic literature review method to assess the feasibility of converting waste into energy (WTE) in Buea, Cameroon. A thorough review of electronic databases was conducted, targeting peer-reviewed journals, reports, and conference proceedings related to municipal solid waste (MSW) and waste-to-energy technologies. Information was collected on study locations, MSW properties, and the environmental, economic, and social impacts of WTE systems. Findings suggest that urban waste could serve as a valuable renewable energy resource, particularly through technologies such as anaerobic digestion and incineration. Biogas and landfill gas remain underutilized sources for heat, electricity, and fuel. Despite the potential, several challenges hinder effective waste-to-energy implementation in Buea. These include inadequate waste collection systems, the absence of comprehensive waste management legislation, limited stakeholder engagement, and insufficient assessment of environmental impacts. The study concludes that if carefully planned and executed, waste-to-energy technologies can play a crucial role in supporting sustainable waste management in Buea, while also promoting environmental protection, economic development, and public health improvements.