Dear Melody, there are plans for an energy from waste plant within a short distance of my home. What should I do?
Ugh. You’re right to be concerned about the prospect of an energy-from-waste (EfW) plant. Modern incinerators, despite advanced filtration systems, can emit pollutants including particulate matter which affects respiratory and cardiovascular health, and heavy metals such as lead or mercury, which are known to cause neurological and developmental issues. Additionally, they can release dioxins, highly toxic chemicals linked to cancer, along with nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) , which contribute to smog and breathing problems. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) contributes to climate change as a greenhouse gas. Around half of the UK’s household rubbish is now burned, and it’s as bad for the climate as burning coal.
They are also huge industrial buildings that might be considered a blot on the landscape and could also generate noise or unpleasant odours depending on their design and management. The delivery of waste leads to increased local traffic, and although they reduce landfill reliance, they still produce greenhouse gases and may discourage recycling efforts. The end result, an EfW plant will probably reduce the value of any home nearby and is the ugly antithesis of the circular economy.
I could suggest you stop creating any rubbish and cease putting anything in the bin. If you refuse all packaging materials in the supermarket this might encourage businesses to address the problem with single use plastic wrappings. You can also put an end to any food waste and ensure you compost everything you can. Recycle batteries, glass, cartons etc. Then get all your family, friends and wider community, even the whole town, to do the same. This will stem the tide of waste and put pay to any new developments as there will be nothing to burn. Unfortunately, having once tried Plastic Free July with Hubster, this may well be impossible. Most humans just seem to be inherently wasteful.
The government is proposing that new household waste incinerators in England can only go ahead if they meet strict requirements, such as ensuring they reduce the amount of rubbish going to landfill or replace older, less efficient incinerators. EfW incinerators are not outright banned in Wales or Scotland, but both nations have implemented policies that significantly limit their development. I don’t suppose moving home is an option?
There are 51 EfW sites in England and 12 under construction, with a total capacity of ~19 million tonnes. There are 33 additional incinerators to be in ‘active development’. On a slightly positive note, the Without Incineration Network (UKWIN) have reported that energy-from-waste capacity will exceed available feedstock within four years if (and it’s a big if) current waste reduction targets are met. This concern should be reported to the local council.
You can argue that EfW plants can have indirect impacts on children, primarily through air quality and environmental factors. Children are more vulnerable due to their developing lungs and higher breathing rates. Additionally, increased traffic near the plant could pose safety concerns in the area. The company proposing the plant will counter argue that it provides energy, jobs and will reduce reliance on landfills, which have their own environmental drawbacks. Personally, I feel the health of children should be more of a priority.
It might sound NIMBYish but send a strongly worded letter to your MP and local council that it’s not something you want giving a list of reasons. Get everyone in your neighbourhood to do the same. It might be helpful to organise community meetings or review environmental impact assessments for the proposed plant. This way, you can better understand the specific plans and voice any concerns.
Finally, get really proactive. Here are some creative ideas for slogans on banners opposing an EfW plant: “Burning Waste, Burning Futures”, “Clean Air, Not Dirty Energy” or “Say No to Pollution, Yes to Solutions”. Then arrange a peaceful protest or gathering, you don’t even need to tell the police unless you intend to march through the streets. Sometimes environmentally-harmful planned developments such as this can rally much needed community spirit. Let me know the date and I’ll join you there. Remember, together we are stronger!
Rebelliously yours,
Melody
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