Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Tashkent has inaugurated the country’s first facility for converting medical waste into thermal energy. The ECO-300 unit was presented at the 16th City Infectious Diseases Hospital in the Chilanzar district and is currently operating in a test mode, according to Nuz.uz.

The project is implemented by the American company Sayar under Presidential Decree No. 263 dated July 17, 2024. Its goal is to introduce a “Zero Waste” approach and develop environmentally safe technologies in healthcare.

During the first phase (2024–2025), $7 million has been invested. The plant is expected to process up to 6,000 tons of medical waste annually from Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara regions, generating up to 20 GWh of thermal energy.

The second phase (2026–2030) will involve investments of $108 million, expanding capacity to handle 90,000 tons of waste and produce 300 GWh of energy.

The incinerator can burn up to 300 kg of waste per hour at temperatures ranging from 950–1150°C. Gases pass through a multi-stage purification system: a catalytic reactor completes combustion of remaining particles, an alkaline solution neutralizes acids, a bag filter captures ash, and an absorption filter eliminates odors.

The exhaust released into the atmosphere is clean, while the heat generated is used for hospital heating and hot water supply.

ECO-300 processes plastic consumables such as syringes, IV sets, and packaging; rubber products; light-metal equipment components; bandages; disposable clothing and protective gear; and other biologically hazardous waste.

Toxic emissions are minimized, viruses and toxins are destroyed, and the remaining ash, which accounts for 5–10% of the original waste, is safe for disposal. The facility also reduces energy costs for medical institutions.

The plant has created 60 jobs. Similar facilities are planned for the Tashkent Medical Institute and the Tashkent Pediatric Institute in the near future.