Waste is a resource (recycling) and a valuable energy source. As waste consists to a high amount of organic material it is recognized as a renewable energy source by 50%.

Waste incineration plants (WIP) produce more than 80 % of electricity from renewable resources in Switzerland (excluding hydropower), that are around 1 billion kWh per year. In addition, they provide cities, housing developments, trade and industry with district heat, which comes from a reliable and ecological source. The annual output of heat and steam from waste totals around 3 billion kWh in Switzerland, which is equivalent to the heating energy requirements of around 1.2 million people. The energy output of WIP can still be significantly increased throughout the country.