Research Projects

The proposed project is designed to transform the estimation and utilization of landfill methane through the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), geospatial systems, and innovative energy solutions. It focuses on developing AI-driven geo-mapping models that utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) data. These models, combined with established methodologies like LandGEM and Tabasaran-Rettenberger, will enable precise estimations of methane generation, dispersion dynamics, and the identification of high-emission zones within landfill sites. Methane flux quantification represents another critical component of the study. By employing ground-based techniques like the Tracer Correlation Method (TCM) and Surface Emission Method (SEM) alongside satellite-derived data, the project provides a multi-dimensional assessment of methane emissions. Integrating profiles of legacy waste into these models further enhances their accuracy, capturing the contribution of both historical and current waste deposits to overall emissions. The proposed project also aims to evaluate the energy potential of landfill methane for conversion into electricity and heat, offering sustainable solutions for energy recovery. Detailed strategies will be developed to ensure the effective integration of this recovered energy into existing grids, optimizing its utility while minimizing losses. This step is critical in transitioning landfill sites from environmental liabilities to energy assets, fostering the adoption of renewable and sustainable energy practices. In the later phases of the project, engineering solutions will be explored to capture liberating methane gas effectively. Advanced processing and purification technologies will be applied to upgrade raw landfill gas to a quality suitable for energy applications. This phase will ensure that the captured energy contributes directly to meeting household and industrial electricity demands, promoting circular economy principles in waste management. In addition to energy utilization, the project emphasizes environmental benefits by quantifying potential reductions in greenhouse gas emissions achieved through methane capture and use. The economic viability of these efforts will be assessed by exploring opportunities for carbon credit generation and aligning the initiative with international climate goals. These credits not only provide financial incentives but also support broader global efforts to combat climate change. By combining AI, geospatial tools, energy recovery technologies, and engineering solutions for methane capture and purification, this project offers a holistic approach to landfill gas management. It aims to optimize resource recovery, mitigate environmental impacts, and drive progress toward sustainable waste management practices while contributing to climate change mitigation and energy sustainability.