Recovering biomass
Biomass includes a large number of materials originating from forestry or farming, and the organic part of industrial and municipal waste flows.
Developing renewable energy sources
Performances
Increasing interest is being shown in biomass. After treatment, it can be transformed into fuel to produce heat, cold, and electricity (via biomethanization and cogeneration).
Moreover, captured biogas originating from the decomposition of rotting waste can be recovered in the form of energy, so that GHG emissions can be limited.
Recovery of sludge from wastewater treatment plants
Veolia Environnement has demonstrated its capacity to propose reliable and financially viable solutions for the treatment and recovery of sludge produced by wastewater treatment plants.
Direct recovery of forestry or farm biomass is a strategic priority for the energy sector. It can be used as a fuel by heat production systems, particularly in boilers supplying urban heating networks, in addition to or as a replacement for fossil fuel.
The structure of the forestry industry and in particular the development of very short rotation scrubs, are key development themes for Veolia Energy- Dalkia.
Furthermore Veolia Environmental Services is designing new biodiesel and biofuel production methods originating from used animal fats and grease from treatment plants.
Recovering green waste
Green waste provides an opportunity for new products that better respect the environment, by developing substitute products with a lower environmental impact.
The collection of biomass flows derived from waste, and particularly recovered wood, is continuously increasing;
Veolia Environmental Services is developing methods of recovery for the wood industry, grinding and paper works.
Furthermore, the recovery of biomass derived from waste provides a means of providing complex biomolecules to chemical industries, thus replacing molecules with mineral or synthetic origin by renewable molecules.
Biomaterials (composites, fibers, hemp concrete, linen, etc.) can be used by the automobile, construction and packaging sectors.
Protecting soils : recovery for farming
Use of organic materials derived from waste provides a means of maintaining or improving soil quality.
It protects water resources by retention of nitrates and pesticides, and reduces erosion and depletion of soils.
Therefore, the addition of enrichment from Veolia Environmental Services composting systems (+24% composted sludge in 2007) which satisfies high quality standards, contributes to enriching the earth with organic materials.
Veolia Environnement is developing several systems for the treatment and recovery of sludge produced by treatment plants, the most important being agronomic recovery through spreading and compost.