Letter to the Editor: A false solution we cannot afford

DEAR News Of The Area,

Regarding the NOTA article “Local talks energy solutions” (13 February edition): I applaud Mr Simshauser’s suggestions to Council regarding energy storage and solar generation.

However, Energy-from-waste (EfW) incinerators should not be  promoted as a green solution to our waste problems.

EfW incinerators do not make clean energy.

They are the dirtiest energy we have, and scientific research reveals their dangers: incinerators emit dioxins, heavy metals, and particulate matter linked to cancer, respiratory disease, and developmental disorders.

Toxic residues and fly ash created by the incinerators are difficult to manage and store safely.

EfW is also terrible for climate change.

A 2023 study in PLOS Climate found they produce more CO₂ per unit of electricity than any other power source; roughly 1,700g per kilowatt-hour, compared to 20-50g for solar.

As demand for fossil fuels in transport falls, oil companies aim to increase plastic production to preserve income.

Promotion of burning plastic for energy guarantees a market.

Never mind that it is misleading.

This comes after the Centre for Climate Integrity’s 2024 report documented fifty years of deliberate industry misinformation about the viability of plastic recycling.

The European Union has excluded new incinerators from its sustainable finance guidelines and its major investment funds.

Over 156 civil society organisations have called for an immediate EU-wide moratorium.

Household waste can be greatly reduced by simple changes like shopping at local bulk goods stores.

According to Zero Waste Europe, purchasing from bulk dispensers can eliminate up to 90 percent of single-use plastic.

The global bulk retail market has grown at an annual rate of 8 percent between 2018 and 2023.

Waste can be reduced through education and incentive schemes, and I urge the council to investigate these.

Yours sincerely,
Judith KIRWOOD,
Valla Beach.