The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently commended two regional landfills for their ability to generate renewable energy from waste materials in a manner that both resulted in energy savings for the communities they serve and without negatively impacting the environment.

The first of the two landfill energy projects is the Combined Heat and Power Project at the Coca-Cola Hickory Ridge Landfill in Conley, Georgia. At this site, the energy resulting from landfill gasses is responsible for a non-stop supply of green electricity, steam, and water. This initiative provides almost 100% of Coca-Cola’s energy needs and results in energy savings and economic development for the company.

The second energy project is the Small Electricity Project at the Watauga County Landfill in Boone, North Carolina. The landfill had been closed for close to twenty years but was ideal for launching a small electricity generating operation in partnership with the Appalachian State University Energy Center. As a result of the project, economic and energy assistance is provided to the county and research opportunities are now available for students and faculty.

WasteCare Wants You to Remember: How are the different members of your town or community working together to save money, energy, and environment? While recycling is a great way to cut costs and reduce trash, there will always be some materials disposed of in your regional landfill. If that trash isn’t being used to generate energy it’s simply costing you money!