Turning organic waste into energy

If found feasible, Muharraq will soon have a solution to make bioenergy production more efficient and profitable. Assistant Professor in the Environment Department in the College of Graduate Studies Dr Sumaya Yousif has developed a recycling system that will transform organic waste into electricity.

A special committee formed by the Muharraq governorate is currently reviewing the project. The committee said will take a closer look at the merits of the project by the Arabian Gulf University (AGU) academic member before giving the green light.

Dr Yousif suggested two methods to reduce the governorate’s waste stream namely ‘direct burning method’ and ‘anaerobic fermentation method’ after presenting six different techniques. Dr Sumaya Yousif said the direct burning method requires no separation of waste materials at the source. The second method, she said, based on anaerobic fermentation and biofuel production requires the separation of biodegradable wastes from the source itself.

“A quarter of Bahrain’s electricity needs could be met annually by adopting the combustion technology,” Dr Yousif said adding: “This would equal the production of Al Hidd Power Plant.” Dr Yousif said the project requires adopting a comprehensive national strategy to manage organic waste and encourage investment in sustainable control.

“Many advanced countries are adopting such initiatives to support their economies and preserve the environment.” The method, she said, could be done by offering rewards, sector privatisation, regulating waste separation, innovation and capacity building as well as promoting the importance of controlling waste among the public.

The discussions were based on Dr Yousif’s PhD dissertation on ‘Environmental engineering’ at York University,the UK,titled “DiscoveringTechnological Opportunities to Control Organic Household Waste in Muharraq Governorate”. She was invited by the Muharraq Governorate to hold a presentation. Chairman of the Council Ghazi Al Murbati, other members, several top officials and employees of the council and executive branch were present.