Incinerator an eco hazard to health

I’M against the Barry incinerator

Many people have asked me on the doorsteps if I am for or against the proposed Barry incinerator and I would like to make it clear that I am vehemently opposed to it.

I am opposed because incineration results in high levels of greenhouse gas emissions. For every tonne of waste burned, typically more than one tonne of CO2 is released into the atmosphere, and the alternatives to incineration are cheaper, more flexible, faster to implement and far better for the environment.

As a resident of the town, I fully support the majority who are against the incinerator as over-capacity in incineration undermines waste prevention, the re-use and recycling of materials – although I fully agree that we do need more job opportunities in the town.

But we must remember, in addition to greenhouse gas emissions that exacerbate climate change, incinerators (including gasification and pyrolysis plants) emit many toxins and pollutants and give rise to public health concerns. Recycling is also harmed by incineration for various reasons, including the over-presence of incineration capacity.

Also, the residents of the town must bear in mind that those living near incinerators report having had to deal with problems such as noise, odour, traffic, visual intrusion, worsened air quality and light pollution. Therefore, we must do all we can to stop this incinerator gaining an operating licence in our town.

Councillor Richard Bertin Independent, Vale of Glamorgan Council