Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives Global Anti-Incinerator Alliance produced a list of myths and facts about incineration. A few myths and facts can be seen below and the rest of the list can be found here.
Myth 1: Modern incinerators have pollution control devices that make them safe for surrounding communities.
Fact 1: All incinerators release pollutants that contaminate our air, water, and soil. In 2009, New York incinerators emitted a total of 36% more mercury than its coal plants. In newer plants, there are some filters that capture some pollutants, but not all of them.
Myth 2: Waste-to-energy incinerators produce less carbon dioxide that coal-fired power plants and other waste reduction alternatives.
Fact 2: Per unit of electricity, incinerators emit more carbon dioxide than coal fired power plants (2988 lbs/MWh and 2249lbs/MWh respectively). In addition, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), incinerators contribute far higher levels of greenhouse gas emissions throughout their lifecycles than reducing, reusing, and recycling the materials being burned.
Myth 3: Waste-to-energy incinerators are an affordable option.
Fact 3: Waste incinerators cost dramatically more than coal-fired and nuclear power plants.
Myth 4: Incinerators provide many local jobs.
Fact 4: Incinerators are extremely expensive and provide very few jobs. Recycling actually creates 10-20 more jobs than incinerators do.
Myth 5: Modern incinerators produce clean energy and less pollution.
Fact 5: Incinerators pollute the climate and emit ultra-fine particles that cause many health risks.
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