2016 MGE waste balance for Berlin

The MGE balance for 2016 is the fourth balance sheet relating to waste in Berlin and is designed to quantify the potential impact of waste on climate and environmental protection. The computer models developed during the preliminary studies in 2010 and 2012 were then refined and updated in the 2014 balance. The development process and all of the targeted improvements and measures which have been identified are structured and discussed in close consultation with relevant stakeholders.

A special topic included in the 2016 MGE balance is the impact of the energy transition on the potential contribution that Berlin’s waste management makes, and can continue to make, to climate protection. The “Energy transition in Berlin” scenario examines the shifting boundary conditions due to the phase-out of fossil energy sources planned for 2030 and 2050. The key message is that the energy transition will achieve climate protection targets while inevitably reducing the potential contribution to climate protection. Future waste management can only continue to make an essential contribution to climate protection if it is conducive to flexible power generation (replacement of fossil-powered reserve power plants), optimises the treatment of waste biomass, and continues to increase waste recycling.