Waste to Energy: CopenHill

Amager Bakke in Copenhagen Denmark is the world's cleanest waste to energy facility in the world. Opened just over 1 year ago, in October 2019, it serves nearly 700,000 people in the surrounding area, bringing their trash in up to 300 trailer loads per day and delivering the heat energy to keep their homes warm.

What really makes this facility stand out though is the building surrounding it. Designed by Bjarke Ingels, it is an eye-catching tall facade with a slope on the side that provides recreation possibilities for all: a ski hill for varying styles and abilities, a climbing wall that is, at 260 ft or 80 metres, the tallest climbing wall in the world as well as hiking trails up the hill. People who prefer not to hike up with their skis or use the tow can ride an elevator that gives views inside to the facility and outwards to the beauty of Copenhagen harbour.

You might be wondering, how is Copenhagen, with only a few days of snow per year, able to sustain a ski hill? The skiing surface is an Italian-made material called Neveplast Artificial Snow, which provides a nearly snow-like experience for skiers and snowboarders while at the same time, trees and plants along the edges enhance the enjoyment.