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From Waste to Renewables: Challenges and Opportunities in Recycling Glass Fibre Composite Products from Wind Turbine Blades for Sustainable Cement Production

Author

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  • Sandra Bulińska

    (Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 50, 60-627 Poznan, Poland)

  • Agnieszka Sujak

    (Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 50, 60-627 Poznan, Poland)

  • Michał Pyzalski

    (Faculty of Materials Science and Ceramics, AGH University of Krakow, Al. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Cracow, Poland)

Abstract

The progress of civilization, driven significantly by the widespread adoption of electricity, has impacted various aspects of life, from household operations to industrial activities. Consequently, there has been a notable increase in waste production across different sectors of the economy. Among used materials, composite products reinforced with glass fibres stand out due to their prevalent use in numerous industries. While offering strength and durability, they pose disposal challenges due to their complex composition, making recycling difficult and contributing to waste accumulation in landfills or to environmental contamination. Industrialised nations wrestle with balancing economic growth and environmental sustainability, aiming to reduce the ecological footprint of industrial activities. Efforts to promote recycling, develop alternative materials, and improve waste management practices are crucial for mitigating the environmental impact of civilisation’s progress. This article presents methods of disposing of post-operation wind turbine blades, focusing on recycling glass and glass fibre as secondary raw materials. We discuss technological, normative, and economic challenges and emphasise the need for ongoing research and innovation in waste management practices. We examine the use of glass and glass fibres in cement production and advocate for sustainable principles in the renewable energy industry, aligning industrial endeavours with ecological sustainability for a greener future.

Suggested Citation

  • Sandra Bulińska & Agnieszka Sujak & Michał Pyzalski, 2024. "From Waste to Renewables: Challenges and Opportunities in Recycling Glass Fibre Composite Products from Wind Turbine Blades for Sustainable Cement Production," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(12), pages 1-23, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:12:p:5150-:d:1416536
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jensen, J.P. & Skelton, K., 2018. "Wind turbine blade recycling: Experiences, challenges and possibilities in a circular economy," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 97(C), pages 165-176.
    2. Beauson, J. & Laurent, A. & Rudolph, D.P. & Pagh Jensen, J., 2022. "The complex end-of-life of wind turbine blades: A review of the European context," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 155(C).
    3. Cherrington, R. & Goodship, V. & Meredith, J. & Wood, B.M. & Coles, S.R. & Vuillaume, A. & Feito-Boirac, A. & Spee, F. & Kirwan, K., 2012. "Producer responsibility: Defining the incentive for recycling composite wind turbine blades in Europe," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 47(C), pages 13-21.
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    1. Dariusz Sala & Oksana Liashenko & Michał Pyzalski & Kostiantyn Pavlov & Olena Pavlova & Karol Durczak & Roman Chornyi, 2025. "The Energy Footprint in the EU: How CO 2 Emission Reductions Drive Sustainable Development," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(12), pages 1-18, June.

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