Plastics with Purpose: Driving Energy and Innovation
Discover how landfill gas-to-energy systems and LFGTE Certified plastics create a future where waste transforms into opportunity.
What is Landfill Gas-to-Energy (LFGTE)?
What is Landfill Gas-to-Energy (LFGTE)?
Landfill Gas-to-Energy (LFGTE) systems represent the future of waste management. By capturing the gases produced as biodegradable materials break down in landfills, LFGTE systems convert these emissions into renewable energy—powering homes, businesses, and communities.
Key Facts About LFGTE
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Established Infrastructure: Landfills across the U.S. already have systems to capture and utilize gas emissions.
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Energy Production: LFGTE facilities generate electricity, heat, and even fuel for vehicles.
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Environmental Benefits: These systems reduce greenhouse gas emissions while providing valuable energy.
Learn More on the EPA’s LMOP Website
Explore More:
Department of Energy: Tapping Landfill Gas for Energy Savings
Morrow Energy: Twin Oaks Renewables Case Study
Why Design Plastics for LFGTE?
Designing plastics for landfill gas-to-energy (LFGTE) systems ensures waste doesn’t just break down—it powers the future.
Key Advantages
Scale: Landfills handle the majority of global waste and are already equipped with gas capture systems.
Infrastructure: LFGTE systems work within existing waste management operations.
Return Value: Plastics designed for LFGTE generate renewable energy, turning waste into a valuable resource.
LFGTE-Compatible Plastics: Same High Quality as Traditional Plastics
Plastics designed for landfill gas-to-energy compatibility retain the same strength, durability, and functionality as traditional plastics while supporting sustainable waste management without compromising performance.
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Same Strength and Durability: Most landfill gas-to-energy compatible plastics maintain the same tensile strength, flexibility, and impact resistance as conventional plastics, making them suitable for packaging, industrial films, and durable goods.
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No Changes to Manufacturing Processes: These materials can be processed using existing equipment without requiring any modifications to production lines.
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Meets Industry Standards: Most landfill gas-to-energy compatible plastics comply with ASTM and ISO testing benchmarks, ensuring they perform as expected in both consumer and industrial applications.
LFGTE-Compatible Plastics & Recycling
These plastics do not interfere with traditional recycling systems, but their primary advantage is their compatibility with landfill gas recovery if discarded.
Still Recyclable, But With an Energy Advantage
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Compatible with Standard Sorting & Processing – These materials function like traditional plastics in recycling streams.
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No Impact on Resin Identification Codes (RIC) – They maintain the same polymer classification, allowing them to be sorted and handled normally.
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Designed for Multiple Disposal Pathways – While they can be recycled, their true sustainability benefit comes from their ability to convert waste into renewable energy in managed landfill environments.
More Resources on LFGTE
Explore in-depth resources to understand the importance of LFGTE and its role in shaping the future of waste management.
Educational Reports
EPA: Benefits of Landfill Gas Energy Projects: Learn how LFGTE reduces emissions and powers communities.
Waste360: Innovations in Landfill Management: Stay updated on the latest developments in waste and energy systems.
Case Studies & Tools
Morrow Energy: Real-World LFGTE Success Stories: Explore practical applications of LFGTE.
EPA: Landfill Methane Outreach Program (LMOP): A comprehensive guide to landfill gas systems and their benefits.
EPA: LFG Energy Benefits Calculator: Estimate energy and environmental savings from LFGTE projects.
Plastics with Purpose
Plastics designed for landfill gas-to-energy systems go beyond waste management—they become a resource for energy and innovation. By aligning with existing infrastructure, these products transform waste into a valuable asset, paving the way for a cleaner, energy-efficient future.
