Conversion of combustible municipal solid waste to methyl alcohol: an environmentally friendly technology

The chronology of various economies based on differing energy‐carriers is examined within a historic perspective and from an environmental point of view. The ‘Methanol Economy’ may well prove to be a permanent, yet ever‐increasing, under‐current of these other economies, each of which plays a temporary role on the Stage of Human History. Although current methods of methanol (MeOH) production are not as profitable as those of fossil‐ and bio‐fuels, scientific discovery, environmental concerns, dwindling resources and increased demand are certain to change their relative profitabilities. The reduced energy content of methanol, relative to gasoline or ethanol, is sure to be offset by the increase in technological efficiency of the machines being fuelled. Any potential hazards associated with the use of methanol can be tackled through education. In all, the production and use problems associated with methanol are outweighed by its benefits. These reduce dependence on fossil fuel.