Sulzer entered into a strategic agreement with KEZO (Zweckverband Kehrichtverwertung Zürcher Oberland), Zurich Oberland’s municipal waste management authority, to deliver and validate a carbon capture solution at KEZO’s waste-to-energy facility in Hinwil. The initiative marks Switzerland’s first carbon capture pilot project at a waste recycling plant, aiming to pave the way for full-scale implementation in KEZO’s upcoming municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) facility planned for 2030.
Tackling CO₂ Emissions from Waste Incineration
MSWI plants are essential to modern waste management, incinerating non-recyclable waste to recover energy and reduce landfill use. However, the combustion process releases substantial carbon dioxide (CO₂), posing a climate challenge. Sulzer’s carbon capture technology aims to turn this challenge into an opportunity by significantly cutting CO₂ emissions. It also seeks to transform waste incineration into a climate-friendly process.
Modular Carbon Capture Unit to Enable Real-World Testing
As part of the pilot project, Sulzer will install a pre-assembled, modular carbon capture unit at the Hinwil plant. This unit can capture up to 1,000 tons of CO₂ annually from flue gases. A nearby greenhouse will then utilize the captured carbon, demonstrating a circular approach to resource use and proving the concept for broader implementation
Stepping Stone to Large-Scale Carbon Capture
The pilot project serves as a critical step toward commercial validation. If successful, KEZO plans to integrate a full-scale carbon capture system at its new MSWI facility, with the capacity to capture up to 120,000 tonnes of CO₂ per year. Such a development would make a significant contribution to Switzerland’s national net-zero targets.
Joint Investment in a Sustainable Future
As per company press release, the project is primarily funded by KEZO, with additional financial support from the Canton of Zurich. KEZO is also contributing its infrastructure and operational expertise. These contributions will help generate key learnings to inform the design of the future large-scale facility.
Leadership Voice
Dr. Suzanne Thoma, Executive Chairwoman of Sulzer, highlighted, “We are pleased to partner with KEZO, already a strong contributor to the circular economy, to advance carbon capture for waste-to-energy applications. This partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to innovation for transformative progress as we invest in tangible solutions that align environmental stewardship with economic development.”
KEZO Managing Director Daniel Böni added, “This project shows how established industries like waste management can evolve through technology. They can play a vital role in decarbonization by embracing strategic collaboration.”
