Waste Utilization
ISTC excels in finding new uses for waste materials. By thinking outside the proverbial box, ISTC researchers have contributed significantly to waste utilization in categories such as revitalizing waste plastics, using waste biomass to make fuels, and finding a beneficial use for biochar, a byproduct of biomass-to-fuels process. Check out all the projects using the side navigation bar (below for mobile users).
The other side to waste utilization is waste minimization through zero waste. Zero waste is an approach to the way products and manufacturing materials are handled throughout their entire life cycle, forming a closed loop by using compostable or recyclable materials so that all elements are reused and nothing ends up in the landfill or incinerator. The concept takes its inspiration from natural systems, which infinitely cycle energy, carbon, nitrogen, and other nutrients from growth to decay. ISTC has a Technologies & Assistance Program (TAP) with experts in practical applications of their branded Zero Waste Illinois. These staff members help companies and organizations assess their waste issues and come up with simple solutions that nearly always save the companies and organizations money, as well as saving our precious natural resources.