Scenarios for energy recovery from slaughterhouse wastes in Europe

This work evaluates the potential for slaughterhouse industry waste conversion into raw energy products in the European Union. On this objective, it develops a theoretical model of energy consumption and availability as a function of waste quality, validated with real data. It is used to study the valorization potential of these wastes in Europe at the country level by conducting a logical and specialized classification of the waste generated. Three scenarios are considered depending on the pathway for the valorization of products. The optimal scenario predicts a net energy capacity at the EU up to 7152 kWh/tonne. It corresponds to an additional annual net energy production capacity at the European Union of almost 50000 million kWh with an increase in waste energy recovery of 48%. The maximum potential capacity is identified in Spain which has the potential to produce 7000 million kWh/year or Denmark, which could produce 293 kWh/year per capita.