There is an increasing trend worldwide to move away from landfills and find some purpose for refuse other than burying it. While the Europeans lead this movement, this trend will likely be mirrored in North America as well. While a large priority has been put on minimizing waste and recycling, the conversion of ordinary waste is a new opportunity for green companies to become involved in and profit from. In fact, with the growth that is taking place now, it is becoming its own industry. According to Frost & Sullivan studies in this sector, the waste to energy market in Europe is growing and will continue to do so for at least 10 years. Europe's waste to energy capacity is expected to increase by around 13 million tons. Nearly 100 new plants will come on line by 2012.

According to Sam Hopkins blog of September 24, 2008, by 2007, with the advent of the green movement, use of biogas climbed to 5,621 MW, a growth of 144% in seven short years, which works out to a compounded annual growth rate of 13.6%. But with constantly improving technology, and a growing interest for using domestic energy, the use of waste to energy facilities is slated to grow another 173% in the next five years as the industry adds another 9,699 MW worth of capacity.

The consumption habits of modern consumer lifestyles are causing a huge worldwide waste problem. Local landfills are becoming harder and harder to expand and maintain as well as very expensive to construct. In fact lots of refuse is now being exported to 3rd world countries. Damage of ecosystems and resources is significant all over the world.