Transparency and Governance

The Global Waste-to-Energy Research and Technology Council (WtERT®) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing sustainable waste management through waste-to-energy (WtE) technologies. As a registered 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entity in the U.S., WtERT® operates with a commitment to transparency, making its governance documents, financial reports, and research findings publicly accessible.

The organization focuses on promoting thermal and biological WtE solutions, to reduce landfill dependency and recover energy and materials from residual non-recyclable waste. Its work includes research collaborations, policy advocacy, and public education, partnering with universities, industry leaders, and governments worldwide.

The 501(c)(3) status ensures that donations are tax-deductible and that all activities align with its mission of environmental sustainability. WtERT’s financial disclosures, including IRS Form 990 filings, are available to maintain accountability, reinforcing trust among stakeholders and public.

By supporting innovation in waste-to-energy systems, WtERT contributes to global efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing the circular economy. More details can be found on its official website: www.wtert.org

2. Legal Status and Organizational Information

  • Legal Name: Global WtERT Inc.
  • Full Name: Global Waste-to-Energy Research and Technology Council (WtERT®)
  • Legal Status: Registered 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization in the United States of America, recognized by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
  • EIN (Employer Identification Number): 45-3842166
  • State of Incorporation: New York
  • Date of incorporation: 2011
  • IRS Determination Letter: Download IRS Determination Letter
    (This letter confirms the IRS’s favorable determination of WtERT’s tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.)
  • Registered Trademark: WtERT® (U.S. Serial Number 97073575, registered on November 22, 2022)
  • Founding Institution: Earth Engineering Center (EEC) at Columbia University
  • Headquarters: 90 Morningside Drive, Apt 3E, New York, NY 10027, United States of America

3. Organizational Structure

WtERT® operates as a global academic network of universities, each hosting a national or regional chapter on its campus. The heads or designated representatives of these universities form the WtERT Council, which guides the network’s mission. The WtERT Board, composed of trusted individuals with experience in nonprofit management, international cooperation, or sustainable development, supports the President and Chairman in ensuring the strategic development and governance of the organization

• Founder, Chairman Emeritus: Prof. Nickolas J. Themelis, Columbia University, USA
• Chairman: Prof. Yan Jianhua, Zhejiang University, China
• Executive President: Prof. Qunxing Huang, Zhejiang University, China
• WtERT Board: Supports the President and Chairman in strategic development and governance
• Regional Chapters: Hosted by universities in countries including Canada, Paraguay, Greece, U.K.,  China, U.K., Morocco,  and others.
• Scientific Advisory Board: Composed of international experts in waste-to-energy and environmental engineering.

4. Governance and By-Laws

Our operations are governed by the official Charter and By-Laws of WtERT, which outline the responsibilities of the Board, membership rules, meeting protocols, and decision-making processes.

• WtERT By-Laws
• WtERT Charter
• Board code of conduct
• Governance Principles: Transparency, accountability, and scientific integrity
• Conflict of Interest Policy

5. Annual Financial Reports

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, WtERT submits an annual Form 990 to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS). These filings include detailed information on revenues, expenses, assets, and program services.

6. Official Partners and Cooperation Agreements

WtERT® has established strategic partnerships with academic institutions, intergovernmental organizations, NGOs, and engineering firms worldwide to promote best available technologies in sustainable waste management.

• The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
• Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN)
• The Global Methane Initiative (GMI)

7. Key Policies

WtERT® upholds a set of guiding policies to ensure ethical conduct and operational integrity across its global network:

• Code of Ethics
• Data Privacy Policy

8. Contact and Inquiries

For any questions or additional documentation requests related to WtERT’s transparency and governance, please contact:

Mr. Reda Kabbaj, email: [email protected]