Driving strong commitment in decarbonisation through WtE and CCS

Meet Haoxin, who shares how WtE and CCS technologies are key to decarbonisation, contributing to the broader dialogue on clean energy solutions and fostering collaboration and innovation within the industry.

Haoxin Xu

With over a decade of research and consulting experience, Haoxin has focused her career on clean energy solutions and decarbonisation technologies, particularly Waste-to-Energy (WtE) and Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) initiatives, contributing significantly to the green transition. Since joining the Waste-to-Energy and Carbon Capture team in Ramboll five years ago, she has worked on many significant projects across the region, delivering technically sound and impactful initiatives. In her role, Haoxin oversees the coordination of technical advisory teams, ensuring effective project management and client satisfaction, while also excelling in waste assessment, process modelling, and technology evaluation.

“Waste-to-Energy and Carbon Capture and Storage are mid- to long-term strategies with the potential to bridge the gap and achieve net zero emissions.”

Haoxin Xu
Chief Consultant, Energy-from-Waste and Carbon Capture, Asia Pacific

Haoxin has built up her expertise and experience, particularly in the Asia Pacific region where she is the key Carbon Capture expert for Ramboll. Her journey with Ramboll is supported by the numerous opportunities to collaborate and exchange knowledge with global experts, particularly in regions where the Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) market is more advanced. This on-the-job learning experience not only enhances her skills but also deepens her understanding of innovative practices in the field.

We spoke with Haoxin to hear more about her experiences in Ramboll and how she is supported in her commitment in the decarbonisation field.

Q: Can you share more about your role in Ramboll?

Haoxin: I joined Ramboll five and a half years ago as part of the Waste to Energy and Carbon Capture team in Ramboll’s Energy division. I’ve been involved in a variety of projects across diverse geographies, including Asia Pacific, Europe, and Africa. Together with the team, we offer technical advisory to both publica and private stakeholders, providing feasibility studies, due diligences, Owner’s Engineer services, supporting our clients in the entire project lifecycle.

As the Carbon Capture lead in the Asia Pacific region, I am determined to bring our Carbon Capture expertise and know-how from Europe to our region and support our region’s long term decarbonisation agenda. Whenever I have the opportunity to speak in conferences relating to Waste-to-Energy and Carbon Capture, I will share about the latest advancements in technology and commercial set-up, along with the challenges, and best practices in these fields.

Q: What led you to pursue a career in the decarbonisation field??

Haoxin: Decarbonisation is both an interesting and challenging task for a problem-solving driven engineer like myself. It is a critical pathway to securing a sustainable future for us and our planet, giving me a sense of purpose and fulfilment. This was one of the core reasons I chose to pursue energy engineering initially, and it continues to drive my career at Ramboll, where I am committed to making a tangible difference in this field.

Q: How would you describe the impact that you and your team make?

Haoxin: The potential for clean energy transitions in the region is immense, and Ramboll is at the forefront of this movement. Together with our global team, we’ve conducted over a hundred studies from pre-feasibility to post commissioning stage, in energy and hard-to-abate sectors. We are very proud of having been involved in many iconic first mover projects that are considered the front runners in the sector.

Q: How can Waste-to-Energy and Carbon Capture contribute to clean energy solutions and decarbonisation?

Haoxin: Waste-to-Energy and Carbon Capture technologies are key to clean energy and decarbonisation. WtE utilises technology to turn waste into various products such as energy in the form of power or biogas, while reducing waste landfilling and the associated GHG emissions. Carbon Capture involves trapping CO2 from large emitters such as energy generation units, industrial processes, or directly from the air. By storing the captured carbon into geological formations, this can contribute to CO2 reduction or removal. Together, these technologies help lower carbon footprints and support the transition to a low-carbon economy. Ramboll’s expertise in these areas drives innovation and sustainable energy solutions could be seen from the Amager Resource Centre (ARC) with a carbon capture pilot plant in Copenhagen and the Integrated Waste Management Facility (IWMF) in Singapore where our global team has played a pivotal role.

Q: What do you enjoy about working with Ramboll?

Haoxin: I enjoy engaging in impactful projects across various regions, which allows me to see the tangible benefits of our work in different communities. Collaborating with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and regions not only broadens our technical expertise but also fosters a rich exchange of ideas and innovative solutions.

I have also gained invaluable practical experiences and technical insights, allowing me to contribute to the broader dialogue on clean energy solutions and decarbonisation for sustainable energy transitions. Presenting our knowledge and sharing our expertise at renowned conferences is incredibly rewarding. It not only enhances my visibility in the industry but also allows me to learn from fellow experts.

Participating in the mentorship program has also been incredibly rewarding for me. The strategic guidance I received and the in-depth exchange of ideas with leaders reinforced my passion for contributing to sustainable solutions, motivating me to grow and succeed. In turn, guiding my mentees not only allowed me to share my knowledge but has also deepened my understanding of our field.

Ramboll’s commitment to my growth, combined with the support from experienced leaders, reinforces my passion for contributing to sustainable solutions and motivates me to grow and succeed.

Image Gallery

At Green Ports & Shipping Congress 2024

Haoxin at Green Ports & Shipping Congress 2024

Credit: Ramboll

At CESG x ISWA Beacon Conference 2024

Haoxin at CESG x ISWA Beacon Conference 2024

Credit: Ramboll

At Asia Clean Energy Forum 2024

Haoxin at Asia Clean Energy Forum 2024

Credit: Ramboll

at Asia Clean Energy Forum 2024

Haoxin at Asia Clean Energy Forum 2024

Credit: Ramboll