Title: Assessment of the socio-cultural viability of integrated waste-to-energy systems for Uganda

Authors: Miria Frances Agunyo; Kukunda Elizabeth Bacwayo; Sarah Kizza-Nkambwe

Addresses: Department of Engineering and Environment, Uganda Christian University, Bishop Road, P.O. Box 4, Mukono, Uganda ' School of Research and Post Graduate Studies, Uganda Christian University, Bishop Road, P.O Box 4, Mukono, Uganda ' Department of Engineering and Environment, Uganda Christian University, Bishop Road, P.O. Box 4, Mukono, Uganda

Abstract: Application of waste-to-energy systems could be the solution for urban areas in countries like Uganda where municipal solid waste is composed of atleast 70% organic matter and sewage and faecal sludge management is limited to about 20 treatment plants. Projected increase in urbanisation to 50% in 2050 will only constrain the existing sanitation facilities, resulting in public health issues and competition for land use. This study investigates application of integrated waste-to-energy systems consisting of a combination of anaerobic digestion, incineration and composting to treat organic waste streams from urban areas. Despite the benefits of such systems related to resource recovery in form of biogas and organic fertiliser, little is known about their socio-cultural viability. A survey carried out at Uganda Christian University showed respondent's beliefs and cultural backgrounds influenced their attitude towards utilising resources recovered. Also, sensitisation and quality assurance of resources recovered boosted system acceptability.

Keywords: socio-cultural viability; integrated waste to energy systems; waste energy; digestate; biogas.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRET.2020.112009

International Journal of Renewable Energy Technology, 2020 Vol.11 No.3, pp.272 - 294

Received: 01 Sep 2019
Accepted: 06 Jul 2020
Published online: 22 Dec 2020 *

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