The invention provides methods for extracting energy from organic materials through the production of carbon and water by contacting the organic material with a carbon-oxide gas such as carbon dioxide and/or carbon monoxide at a temperature between about 200.degree. C. and about 600.degree. C. The reactions may be enhanced through the use of microwave irradiation, catalysts and pressure. These methods are helpful in the production of energy while utilizing carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide gases and limiting the landfill of organic materials.