Exploring the future of energy & waste: An inspiring Q&A with director Tom Hill on circular economy, innovation, and local authority leadership
As we look ahead to the future, the urgency of sustainability is more pressing than ever in light of the global climate crisis. In response, the Energy & Waste sectors have emerged as crucial players in the transition to a more sustainable future. With a wealth of knowledge and experience gained over 12 years in this field, our Director Tom Hill is at the forefront of driving sector innovation and progress.
In this engaging Q&A, Tom shares his unique insights and perspectives on the pivotal role of energy & waste in addressing the challenges of the future. He draws on his extensive experience to discuss topics such as the circular economy and its impact on the Energy from Waste sector, as well as exploring the critical role of local authorities in promoting sustainable practices and achieving a more sustainable future.
Can you give an example of a project you have worked on that demonstrates your expertise in energy & waste architecture?
Can you give an example of a project you have worked on that demonstrates your expertise in energy & waste architecture?
“The sector itself is very specialist, building layout is led by the process technology within it and the build-up of the fabric and performance is generally in accordance with regulations over and above that of Building Regulations. It is rare that there is a technology partner at concept design and therefore the architect needs to have a strong understanding of the process and the technology at the heart of the facility.
One notable example that comes to mind is the highly acclaimed Great Blakenham EfW project, which I had the privilege of overseeing as part of the team responsible for delivering RIBA Stages 4-6 for Suez. The scheme won Major Civils Project at the BCI awards, received an award for Best Sustainable Project and was also recognised by the annual Civic Trust Awards. The office area is also one of the greenest buildings in the country having been granted a BREEAM outstanding rating.”
What impact have you personally made on the Energy & Waste sectors?
What impact have you personally made on the Energy & Waste sectors?
“Over the past 12 years I have been involved in more than 30 energy & waste schemes across the UK. These schemes include both conversion and new build biomass facilities, interconnectors to Europe and North Africa, energy recovery facilities and peaking plants. The scope of services provided for these schemes varies with many projects not yet coming to fruition. However, the 13 that are now operational currently provided enough electricity to power the equivalent of 5.2m households which is in the region of 19% of the UK‘s homes.”
In relation to the circular economy, what significance does the Energy & Waste sector play?
In relation to the circular economy, what significance does the Energy & Waste sector play?
“The circular economy aims to tackle challenges including climate change through reducing waste, recirculating resources, and adopting nature-positive, low carbon and resource-efficient solutions.
The duty of care for reducing waste lies with everyone including manufacturers, suppliers, business owners, tenants and the general public. Alongside this, technologies such as MRFs (Materials Recovery Facilities) for metal and material recovery, as well as processes like anaerobic digestion, can aid in diverting waste from landfills and transforming it into renewable energy. By viewing waste as a valuable resource, these approaches can contribute to the circular economy.
Furthermore, energy from waste facilities can play a significant role in the aspiration to achieve net zero carbon targets by supplying both power and heat, through district heating systems using a low carbon alternative to traditional fossil fuels as seen in cities such as Leeds.”
Can you discuss the role of technology in improving waste management and reducing waste entering landfill?
Can you discuss the role of technology in improving waste management and reducing waste entering landfill?
“There are currently various technologies and emerging technologies in use across the UK with each local authority having its own strategy for waste management. As an example, some authorities require residents to separate food waste which is then turned into renewable energy through the anaerobic digestion process whereas others do not. In my opinion, a more joined-up strategy would be better.
In addition, the ability to reprocess plastics is still one of the real areas to focus on as the technology has not been available until more recently. Much of the UK’s plastic currently ends up being sent to energy from waste facilities where it is turned into electricity. It has also been well-publicised that some plastic packaging the government claims is recycled is in fact sent abroad where it may be dumped or burned illegally.
The use of emerging technologies such as plastic processing facilities that create recycled raw plastic material to return to the economy is an important part of the puzzle.”
What role can architects play in helping local authorities to develop comprehensive waste management strategies that incorporate energy from waste as a key component?
What role can architects play in helping local authorities to develop comprehensive waste management strategies that incorporate energy from waste as a key component?
“The DB3 team has worked on more than 40 facilities across the UK both with local authorities, waste contractors, civil construction companies and technology providers from across Europe. Within the business, we have a strong understanding of the various processes and technologies that are available and which the authority may or may not choose as part of their strategy. As such we are able to provide advice on design and layout accordingly or reach out to many of the above for advice and support. In addition, we have partnerships with other consultants and as such we are able to provide support on all aspects of concept design, planning and environmental impact assessment as well as the construction delivery of these schemes.”
Thank you Tom for sharing your extensive knowledge with us and leading the DB3 Energy & Waste team towards a more sustainable future.
DB3 Energy & Waste
DB3 Energy & Waste
Enabling global, industry leading facilities to divert waste from landfill, improve recycling capabilities and maximise opportunities for energy creation and heat & energy recovery is at the centre of the sector’s purpose.
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