Transforming Waste into Resources for a Climate-Resilient Future
The Global Waste-to-Energy Research and Technology Council – WtERT® is the international academic network advancing the recovery of energy and materials from residual, non-recyclable waste. This is the future of Waste-to-X, where waste becomes a resource: powering energy, fuels, chemicals, and new circular solutions.
Founded by the Earth Engineering Center of Columbia University, our aim is to unite top universities and research institutions across continents to advance sustainable waste management. Today, the global leadership of WtERT® is jointly stewarded by Columbia University and the College of Energy Engineering at Zhejiang University.
WtERT® provides trusted, science-based knowledge to governments, international organizations, and industry; grounded in peer-reviewed research and deep technical expertise. We are united by a shared mission: to build a circular, low-carbon economy by applying the best available technologies for post-recycling waste management.
We are a global knowledge hub, advancing innovation at the intersection of academia, policy, and technology: to accelerate climate action and resilience worldwide.
Our Global Mission at a Glance
Global Research Network
WtERT® connects researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers across 30+ countries to advance Waste-to-Energy + X science and best practices.
Sustainable Waste Solutions
We promote the safe recovery of energy and materials from residual waste, driving circular economy models and reducing methane emissions.
Trusted Knowledge Hub
Our global database of peer-reviewed articles, white papers, and WtE data empowers informed, climate-smart decision-making.
Education & Academic Training
Through courses, workshops, and partnerships with leading universities, WtERT® advances academic and professional education in sustainable waste management.
Explore Our Global Knowledge Hub
Explore cutting-edge research published in Waste Disposal & Sustainable Energy, WtERT’s official peer-reviewed journal, co-published by Springer and Zhejiang University Press.
It is the exclusive academic publishing platform of the WtERT global network, advancing sustainable waste management and low-carbon technologies worldwide.
Learning Resources
WtERT’s digital resources provides a variety of content including journals, ebooks and papers on the topics of waste-to-energy. Find more…
Research | Technology | Innovation
Latest News, Research, and Publications
Recent updates on sustainable waste management, activities, and publications from WtERT and its global network.
Welcome to SOFOS: The Most Comprehensive Online Database
Under the auspices of WtERT® and the Earth Engineering Center at Columbia University, SOFOS is a vast repository of wisdom dedicated to advancing sustainable waste management. Named after the Greek word for “wise man,” SOFOS embodies the core values of knowledge sharing and collaboration. Much like the hidden owl nestled within Columbia’s iconic Alma Mater statue—a symbol of wisdom—
Our database contains a wealth of research, including publications, dissertations, conference proceedings, and theses, all aimed at driving innovation in sustainable waste management practices worldwide.
Reinforce Your Knowledge by exploring the SOFOS database. Simply type your search inquiry below to access valuable insights and research:
Circular Economy Pioneers:
Accelerating Waste-to-Energy Solutions for Climate Action and Sustainability
WtERT® Unites Leading Organizations to Champion Waste-to-Energy Innovations for Climate Mitigation and Circular Economy Goals
