A solution or just a solution in disguise?

Numerous technologies were already developed to solve problems regarding waste management. Some of this include sanitary landfills, biological treatment, composting, incineration and others. We cannot deny that even each of these waste management technologies provide promising and positive results, its eco-friendliness and cost-effectiveness are still questionable. In the Philippines, incineration plant is not allowed to operate as per Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 and the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000. We are the only country that have a national ban against the said technology.

One of disadvantages of incineration is, it's expensive. We know that we are not a rich country, but it is not the main reason why it is banned. Incineration harm the environment and the people. Instead of providing solutions to eliminate waste, it's like creating new problem by solving an existing one. As the waste is burned during the process, it releases harmful substances such as dioxin which is a cancel forming chemical. Incineration doesn't encourage people to recycle and thus waste will never be reduced. Waste are just burned and nothing is recycled so waste materials will continue to be produced. Also, it is a possibility that an environmental racism will occur. This refers to a policy or practice that will only benefit some and harm others. In a country, those places with less economic growth are more likely the site of this plant- making the people living there (and the place it self) prone to all negative impacts of the so called waste-to-energy plant.

On the other hand, incineration of course help reduce tons of waste that are dumped in sanitary landfills. It is also reported that its carbon footprint is lesser than other technologies as it doesn't require long distance transport. Also, it is good for clinical waste as it can kill harmful chemicals because of its high temperature requirement during the process.

Despite this, I still stand strong with my opinion that incineration should still be banned. I agree that it's better than sanitary landfills but 4Rs (Reuse, reduce, repurposing, and recycle) and composting are still the best choice for me. The percentage of biodegradable waste covers more than that of industrial and non-biodegradable waste, so we should impose a technology that will target reducing waste in a way it will not create more problems. I also agree that there are waste that cannot be recycled, then that's the time we may use incineration, at least only less waste will be burn hence less impact.

Done with my assignment done with the article for today hehe. I actually become happy when I have a reflection or essay as an assignment. I can automatically have an article to publish hihi