Gambia Embarks on Waste Reduction with New Incinerator Facility

Gambia Embarks on Waste Reduction with New Incinerator Facility

The Gambia has embarked on a major initiative to tackle its rampant waste problem by constructing a state-of-the-art incinerator facility. The project is a crucial step in the West African nation’s waste management strategy, aiming to reduce environmental pollution and enhance waste disposal practices.

Background

The Gambia faces significant waste management challenges, with landfills already exceeding capacity and improper waste disposal leading to environmental and health risks. The country generates approximately 4 Künle 80 Künle 30 Künle 3 of municipal solid waste annually, of which 70 Künle 8 Künle 5 is organic waste. Traditional waste management practices have resulted in rampant dumping and open burning, leading to air pollution and environmental degradation.

Incinerator Facility

The newly constructed incinerator facility in Banjul has a capacity to process 1 ton of waste per hour. The plant employs advanced technologies to ensure efficient and environmentally friendly incineration. It features a sophisticated air pollution control system to minimize harmful emissions and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

Benefits of the Incinerator Facility

• Reduced waste volume through efficient incineration.
• Significant reduction in open burning and its associated environmental pollution.
• Recovery of valuable materials through residue management.
• Environmental protection through controlled waste disposal.

Implementation and Sustainability

The Gambia’s Ministry of Environment, Parks and Wildlife and the Environmental Protection Agency have collaborated on the project. The incinerator facility will be operated and maintained by a private contractor.

Estimated Impact

The incinerator facility is expected to significantly reduce the amount of waste going to landfills and minimize air pollution. The project will also create new job opportunities in waste management.

FAQs

1. What type of waste can be incinerated?

The incinerator facility is designed to handle primarily municipal solid waste, including organic materials, paper, plastics, and textiles. Hazardous and clinical waste are not suitable for incineration.

2. What are the air pollution control measures in place?

The facility has a sophisticated air pollution control system that includes scrubbers, filters, and monitoring systems to minimize harmful emissions and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

3. How does the incinerator facility contribute to sustainability?

By reducing waste volume and minimizing air pollution, the facility promotes sustainable waste management practices and environmental conservation. The recovered residues can be processed to produce energy and useful materials.