Thesis: Legal aspects of introducing waste-to-energy (WtE) technology in Sao Paulo State of Brazil: The case studies of URE Barueri and city of Sao Paulo

M.S. Thesis: Legal Framework for Waste-to-Energy in Brazil

Case Studies of São Paulo and Barueri

Author: Paulo Ernani Bergamo dos Santos
Advisor: Prof. Nickolas J. Themelis
Co-Advisor: Prof. A.C. Bourtsalas
Institution: Department of Earth and Environmental Engineering, Fu Foundation School of Engineering & Applied Science, Columbia University
Date: April 30, 2016

Overview

This master’s thesis provides a comprehensive analysis of the legal and regulatory framework required to enable Waste-to-Energy (WtE) development in Brazil, with a focus on the State of São Paulo.

It explores the critical intersection between:

• Rapid urbanization and population growth
• Increasing energy demand
• Integrated solid waste management systems
• Circular economy and resource recovery strategies

The study highlights how policy, licensing, and institutional alignment are key enablers for transitioning from landfilling to sustainable waste-to-value solutions.

Case Studies

1. URE Barueri (Energy Recovery Unit)

• First Waste-to-Energy project in Brazil undergoing licensing
• Located in Barueri (~246,000 inhabitants)
• Positioned 26.5 km from São Paulo city center
• Represents a pioneering step toward modern waste treatment infrastructure

2. São Paulo Metropolitan WtE Project

• Designed to serve the city of São Paulo (~12 million inhabitants)
• Integrated within a metropolitan area of over 20 million people
• One of the largest potential WtE developments in Latin America
• Reflects the scale and urgency of managing residual waste in megacities

Key Contribution

This research delivers valuable insights into:

• Regulatory barriers and opportunities for WtE deployment
• Licensing processes and environmental compliance challenges
• The role of governance in enabling large-scale infrastructure projects
• Strategic pathways for shifting from landfill dependence to energy and material recovery

It serves as a reference for policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders working on sustainable waste management transitions in emerging economies.