Glossary and abbreviations

Net income before non-cash charges, amortization and depreciation. Cash flow equals net income plus amortization and depreciation less preferred dividends. It is an indicator of a company's credit-worthiness.

A public opinion polling institute

A waterproof pit containing subcells into which waste is deposited in a landfill. A landfill is composed of several cells. Each one is hydraulically independent and designed to facilitate the recovery of landfill gas and the collection of leachate. A geomembrane liner and draining materials ensure the cells are waterproof. The cells are surrounded by waterproof barriers. The whole landfill is also surrounded by a boundary fence. The height and slope of the barriers, the distance from cells to the outer limit of the operation, and inspections are all covered by regulations.

Methane

(CDM)The Clean Development Mechanism encourages the realization of environmental projects in developing countries. The entity that finances the project earns emission credits.

Carbon dioxide

(See Greenhouse gas)

This clean technology enables the simultaneous production of electricity and heat from a given type of fuel.

Product produced by composting waste. It can be used as an organic soil improver to improve soil structure, or as a plant fertilizer.

A biological process that accelerates the breakdown of organic waste by introducing air, producing compost. The chemical reactions involved in composting release heat, which sanitizes the compost, i.e., eliminates the pathogenic agents in the incoming waste. Compost can be used as an organic amendment, to improve soil structure, or as a fertilizer to nourish plants.

Waste exiting a composting facility as not suitable for organic recycling.

(Energy and Waste Research Center) Established in 1992 by Veolia Environmental Services and Veolia Energy, CRPE brings together engineers and researchers behind a common goal: to improve waste and energy management and protect the environment.