Engineering Circular Solutions

Introduction: Tackling the Biodegradable Waste Challenge

The management of biodegradable waste is a pressing global issue. In alignment with European circular economy goals and UK policy, efforts are accelerating to eliminate biodegradable waste from landfills by 2028, paving the way to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. However, small-scale waste generators—rural villages, agricultural and livestock farms, small towns, and industrial sites—face unique challenges in managing organic waste.

Current Anaerobic Digestion (AD) systems are primarily designed for large-scale operations, leaving a gap in solutions for smaller, more dispersed waste sources. From limited collection infrastructure and inconsistent separation practices to small waste volumes that render traditional composting economically unfeasible, addressing bio-waste requires innovative, localized solutions.

The Containerised AD System: A Revolutionary Approach

The Waste2Watts Anaerobic Digestion (AD) System offers a game-changing solution. Designed to tackle the complexities of small-scale biodegradable waste management, this containerized, plug-and-play system delivers a highly efficient method for treating organic waste while recovering energy in the form of biogas.

Key Features and Innovations:

This talk introduces the innovative Waste2Energy small-scale AD System, a pioneering containerized, plug-and-play solution for biodegradable waste recycling. This system addresses the challenges of small-scale waste management by offering a decentralized and adaptable approach.

•    Compact and Portable Design: The containerized system is transportable and easy to install in remote or off-grid locations, making it ideal for decentralized waste management.
•    Scalability and Flexibility: Tailored to meet the needs of projects of varying sizes, it integrates seamlessly into diverse operational settings.
•    Dual Benefits: Combines waste treatment with renewable energy recovery, supporting on-site energy needs and reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
•    Circular Economy Integration: Converts bio-waste into valuable bio-products and biofuels, unlocking new opportunities in sustainable resource management.

About the Speakers:

Mani Vannan is the founder and CEO of Circularity Water Ltd T/A Circularity Water and Energy as well as holding Directorships at a number of other companies. 

Mani is a former Faculty Member, Staff College & Agribusiness Economist with Indian Overseas Bank, Madras, India and former Investment Director at Frontier Power Ltd, London. 

Mani has more than 40 years’ experience in a multi-national bank and governments in international business, finance, business strategy, energy consultancy, and environmental management with a particular interest in renewable and clean technology and has raised over US$ 1 billion of funding for diverse energy and infrastructure related companies.  He has acted as a Strategic Adviser to Governments, Industry Leaders, and Start-ups including strategies to drive the transition towards a circular economy and a zero-carbon future and has supported start-ups by offering insights, networks, and resources to foster innovation in clean technology, waste management, and renewable energy solutions.

Georg Greutter is the Senior Advisor (Biogas Technology) at Circularity Water and Energy, London and Chief Executive Officer, Waste to Energy GmbH, Austria. 

Georg Greutter has been an accomplished independent entrepreneur and management consultant since 2001, with a strong focus on business development. His expertise lies in guiding companies toward growth and success through tailored strategies and comprehensive solutions.  Georg’s expertise includes Business and Product Development, Investors Onboarding and Corporate Finance.

Georg has supported various companies and municipalities in designing and implementing comprehensive energy concepts, reflecting his commitment to sustainable business practices.