EGF – Environment Global Facilities is a European reference company in the environmental sector and a leader in the treatment and recovery of waste in Portugal.
EGF is a company responsible for guaranteeing the treatment and recovery of waste within a framework of environmental and economic sustainability, and contributing towards raising the quality of life and the environment.
The management of waste treatment and recovery systems is carried out by 11 concessionary companies created in partnership with the Municipalities. These companies process around 3.2 million tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) a year, serving about 60% of the Portuguese population living in 174 Municipalities.
Emidio Pinheiro
Chairman of the Board of Directors
My name is Emídio Pinheiro, I’m currently Chairman of the Board of Directors of EGF and responsible for leading Mota-Engil Environment, the environmental business unit of the Mota-Engil group. Since I joined EGF in 2020, my focus has been on driving the company’s commitment to sustainable waste management practices. At EGF, we manage waste recovery and treatment processes, focusing on reducing environmental impact while creating economic value through initiatives such as waste-to-energy and biogas recovery. As Chairman of EGF, I oversee efforts to align our operations with national and European sustainability objectives, working on strategies to increase selective waste collection, reduce landfill use and promote recycling.
What inspired your organisation to join ISWA, and how has ISWA helped in your career?
Our participation in ISWA is driven by our commitment to innovation and sustainability in the waste management sector. ISWA provides a crucial platform to share knowledge, promote best practices, and support the transition to a circular economy. For me personally, it was an opportunity to learn from industry experts and contribute EGF’s and Mota-Engil Environment experiences in areas like waste-to-energy and biogas recovery. ISWA has also been a great networking opportunity and a continuous source of inspiration for both my career and our teams.
What are the biggest projects/ initiatives in waste management that your organisation has achieved so far?
EGF and Mota-Engil Environment have been at the forefront of significant initiatives in waste management, with a particular focus on waste-to-energy and biogas recovery. We process around 3.2 million tons of urban waste annually, and we are committed to reducing the amount of biodegradable waste sent to landfills and increasing selective collection rates. Additionally, we have implemented innovative organic waste recovery technologies, which have a direct impact on sustainability in the sector.
What have your biggest challenges been so far?
One of the biggest challenges we face at EGF is the continuous evolution of waste management practices in response to new environmental requirements and regulatory frameworks. At EGF, we not only focus on the efficient treatment and recovery of waste, but also on involving citizens in the process, which is key to driving behavioural change. In addition, energy plays a key role in creating effective waste management solutions. We have developed and implemented processes such as waste-to-energy and biogas recovery, which are essential for increasing sustainability and reducing our environmental footprint. Working in waste management means contributing to the future of humanity and, at EGF, we are proud to help build a more sustainable world through innovative and effective solutions.
In your opinion, what are the most pressing issues in the waste sector that should be addressed today?
I believe that reducing plastic waste and properly managing biodegradable waste should be global priorities. The transition to a circular economy is critical to ensuring long-term sustainability. Additionally, we must continue to innovate in waste-to-energy technologies and material recovery to improve efficiency and reduce the environmental footprint of waste management.
What are the trends in waste management excites you the most?
The advancements in waste-to-energy technologies and the use of biogas as a renewable energy source are among the most exciting trends in the sector. These solutions not only help reduce waste but also contribute to generating renewable energy. I’m also excited by new recycling technologies that are making material recovery more efficient, as they will play a key role in the future of sustainable waste management. If issues of technology and innovation are critical in our business, one of the activities that motivates me most is bringing citizens on board as a central and decisive factor in achieving our goals as a society.
What role do you see ISWA play in driving sustainable practices globally?
ISWA plays a vital role in promoting sustainable practices worldwide. It serves as a hub for sharing knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions. Through its global network, ISWA facilitates collaboration between governments, businesses, and other stakeholders, helping to create more effective public policies and driving the implementation of sustainable solutions across the waste management value chain.
How can ISWA members collaborate more effectively to address shared challenges?
Collaboration between ISWA members can be enhanced through the sharing of success stories and the implementation of best practices. Joint initiatives in research and development focused on innovation are crucial, as is the exchange of knowledge about new technologies and public policies that are being implemented in different regions. By adapting these solutions to the local context, we can address shared challenges more effectively.
ISWA has an active Young Professionals Group as a special task force, what would be your advice to them looking to make a difference in the waste sector?
My advice to the ISWA Young Professionals Group would be to focus on continuous learning and staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in the waste sector. It’s essential to bring innovative ideas, collaborate with more experienced professionals, and be resilient when facing challenges. Developing a network of collaborations and adopting a mindset of creativity and innovation will be key to making a meaningful impact in the waste management industry.
