The EREF is the only private, grant-making institution with a national and international scope dedicated solely to supporting solid waste research and education initiatives. Its mission focuses on achieving sustainability, good environmental stewardship, higher process efficiency, and broadened knowledge through funding and guiding solid waste management research.
The grant program managed by the EREF aims to advance sustainable solid waste management practices. It supports research in areas such as waste minimization, recycling, waste conversion to energy, biofuels, chemicals or other valuable products, and strategies for promoting waste diversion. The program encourages proposals that include economic analyses, feasibility studies for untested technologies, life cycle analysis, and policy analyses relevant to solid waste management. Specific topics such as the development of process models, the application of pyrolysis/gasification for niche waste streams, the development of specific technologies within these areas, and the use of algae to create biofuels from waste require prior approval before submission. The EREF emphasizes research that reflects its strategic plan to integrate all aspects of solid waste management with a strong focus on sustainability.