Cross sector links
All sectors use energy, there is a need for good management to improve design
and management to reduce the amount of energy used.
A significant sector link also exists with waste, through potential opportunities
to utilise biogas from waste recovery or energy generated from waste incineration.
Energy can be recovered from waste by direct waste incineration, as a fuel substitute,
materials recovery (energy released as a by-product of a process) or from waste
disposal where fuel is recovered as a by-product (e.g. landfill gas). Energy
from waste can make an important contribution towards sustainable development
as a source of renewable energy leading to reduced fossil fuel usage and cutting
emissions of greenhouse gases. New energy from waste technologies are being
developed including pyrolysis, fermentation, gasification and feedstock recycling
that will help to recycle waste material and also cut fossil fuel usage.
Green/blue impacts are also an important cross sector link particularly relating
to the visual impact of energy supply infrastructure on the natural environment
and potential pollution impacts of accidents occurring during the transportation
of fossil fuels.
Renewable energy supplies in the form of wave power, hydroelectric power and
the positioning of offshore wind turbines directly relate to water management
companies. There is a need for cross sectoral working to ensure that these energy
supply facilities are designed and operated in a manner that does not impact
on water quality and related issues. |