Enerkem

With its proprietary technology, Enerkem converts non-recyclable municipal solid waste into methanol, ethanol and other widely used chemical intermediates. 1.3 billion tonnes of municipal solid waste is generated each year around the world. 70% of this municipal solid waste is either landfilled or incinerated. Enerkem’s technology provides a sustainable waste management solution which is complementary to recycling and composting.

Their technology uses waste materials normally destined to landfill or incineration, such as textiles, non-recyclable plastics, wood residues, or soiled food containers. Producing biofuels and renewable chemicals from non-recyclable and non-compostable garbage also respects the waste hierarchy already adopted in several countries and building the circular economy. Enerkem’s patented technology chemically recycles the biogenic and non-biogenic carbon contained in non-recyclable waste and residues.

In less than 5 minutes, their exclusive waste conversion process first transforms this carbon into a pure synthesis gas (also called syngas), which is then converted into biofuels and renewable chemicals, using commercially available catalysts. Each Enerkem waste-to-biofuels and chemicals facility helps communities increase their waste diversion rate to as high as 90%.

Enerkem’s community-based facilities have a compact footprint. The facilities can be installed at landfill sites, next to transfer stations or petrochemical facilities.

Headquartered in Canada, Enerkem owns a full-scale commercial facility in Alberta as well as an innovation center in Quebec. The company is developing additional biorefineries in North America and globally, based on its modular manufacturing approach. Enerkem’s technology and facilities help diversify the energy mix and make everyday products greener while offering a sustainable alternative to landfilling and incineration.

Enerkem’s technology is the result of technology inspired by the research and development led by Dr. Esteban Chornet, Professor Emeritus at the Université de Sherbrooke (Québec, Canada). Professor Chornet and his son Vincent saw the opportunity to develop a revolutionary technology and bring it to the market. Vincent Chornet, as President and CEO, has been the guiding force behind Enerkem’s development since 2000, obtaining C$504 million in private financing and government support, and growing the company to 200 employees.