With the upcoming introduction of the Carbon Emissions Tax and the Plastic Packaging Tax, plus consumer perception evolving to reflect a more switched-on attitude towards sustainability, businesses are having to adapt.
What are the big trends heading for the sector that we should be preparing for now?
New energy sources
More widespread use of hydrogen as a fuel is a big discussion point in the sector. Hydrogen is a clean fuel that can be produced by a variety of methods including thermal processes and even anaerobic digestion. Going forwards we need to work together to ensure that hydrogen is produced in sustainable ways to ensure that we utilise it to its full environmental benefit.
The presence of green gas is also increasing, with businesses being incentivised to sell it into the grid. The use of green gas has become much more widespread over the past 10 years and is a lucrative resource to produce.
Collaboration is key
The construction of high-tech food manufacturing campuses is likely to play a big part in the move towards more sustainable food and beverage manufacturing. They will allow manufacturers to come together to cluster knowledge and investment and utilise shared resources to minimise food waste and carbon emissions.
Carbon capture and storage projects will similarly require collaborative efforts, as the process involves three key stages: trapping and separating the carbon dioxide, transporting it to a storage location and storing it underground or deep in the ocean. Each stage requires different facilities, resources and expertise, so will need collaborative working to enable projects to gather pace.
New ways to deal with waste
At Veolia, we want to ensure we keep our finger on the pulse of the latest waste management trends. Whether that be developing our own innovative recycling solutions, like our recent launch of the UK's first dual PET (Poly Ethylene Terephthalate) bottle and tray recycling facility, or looking further afield. In Sweden, for example, underground waste management is being used, where waste is being transported through long-distance pipes to a stationary pneumatic refuse collection system underground.
Prepare for the future with Veolia
As we continuously develop new innovations and processes, we can advise your business on the latest cutting edge technology you should be thinking about implementing. We can advise you on upcoming legislation changes or developments so that we can work together to prepare. We can continue to develop solutions which will create greater synergy between your waste, energy and water, and help you to optimise processes to make your business as efficient as possible.