Revolutionizing waste-to-energy: harnessing the power of triboelectric nanogenerators This review paper explores an innovative waste-to-energy technology called triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), which utilize electrostatic induction and contact electrification principles. TENGs offer a wide range of material choices for fabrication, enabling the use of waste materials for energy production. The paper discusses how various types of waste, including plastic, electronic, medical, household, and biowaste, can be integrated into TENG technology for efficient energy production. It also details various applications of waste-based TENGs and projects challenges and future directions for creating a sustainable, green energy landscape. The United Nations has set forth the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030, which include economic, social, and environmental components. Waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies are essential in achieving these objectives. WTE technologies support goal 7 by boosting a modern, sustainable energy supply by utilizing waste materials for energy production. It expands the range of energy production methods beyond conventional fossil fuels by addressing the need for dependable and easily accessible renewable energy sources. WTE encourages more sustainable production and consumption patterns in tandem with goal 12. It offers a workable way to reduce waste by converting materials into useful energy resources that would otherwise add to landfill accumulation and environmental pollution. This strategy enhances ecological sustainability by reducing the environmental impact of waste disposal and improving waste management. WTE technologies demonstrate the interconnectedness of these global goals by providing a synergistic approach to meeting multiple SDGs. With WTE technologies, waste materials will be utilized to produce gas, oil, or electricity, and the amount of waste materials that are sent to landfills will be considerably reduced. WTE technologies are essential in protecting the environment and people's health. Additionally, it helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, decreases dependency on fossil fuels, and recovers valuable materials. It also supports economic growth by creating new industries and job opportunities. Crucially, WTE technologies pave the way for a circular economy, promoting the reuse and recycling of resources. Therefore, developing WTE technologies is essential for achieving a sustainable and environmentally friendly planet.Revolutionizing waste-to-energy: harnessing the power of triboelectric nanogenerators This review paper explores an innovative waste-to-energy technology called triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), which utilize electrostatic induction and contact electrification principles. TENGs offer a wide range of material choices for fabrication, enabling the use of waste materials for energy production. The paper discusses how various types of waste, including plastic, electronic, medical, household, and biowaste, can be integrated into TENG technology for efficient energy production. It also details various applications of waste-based TENGs and projects challenges and future directions for creating a sustainable, green energy landscape. The United Nations has set forth the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030, which include economic, social, and environmental components. Waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies are essential in achieving these objectives. WTE technologies support goal 7 by boosting a modern, sustainable energy supply by utilizing waste materials for energy production. It expands the range of energy production methods beyond conventional fossil fuels by addressing the need for dependable and easily accessible renewable energy sources. WTE encourages more sustainable production and consumption patterns in tandem with goal 12. It offers a workable way to reduce waste by converting materials into useful energy resources that would otherwise add to landfill accumulation and environmental pollution. This strategy enhances ecological sustainability by reducing the environmental impact of waste disposal and improving waste management. WTE technologies demonstrate the interconnectedness of these global goals by providing a synergistic approach to meeting multiple SDGs. With WTE technologies, waste materials will be utilized to produce gas, oil, or electricity, and the amount of waste materials that are sent to landfills will be considerably reduced. WTE technologies are essential in protecting the environment and people's health. Additionally, it helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, decreases dependency on fossil fuels, and recovers valuable materials. It also supports economic growth by creating new industries and job opportunities. Crucially, WTE technologies pave the way for a circular economy, promoting the reuse and recycling of resources. Therefore, developing WTE technologies is essential for achieving a sustainable and environmentally friendly planet.