Incinerator Eruption: Eritrea’s Alarming Effort to Revamp Waste Disposal

Incinerator Eruption: Eritrea’s Alarming Effort to Revamp Waste Disposal

Waste Management Woes in Eritrea

Eritrea, a country in the Horn of Africa, has been struggling to manage its waste disposal systems for years. With a population of around 3.5 million people, the country is producing an estimated 1.4 million tons of waste per year. Despite efforts to implement proper waste management systems, the situation remains critical. In an alarming move, the government has recently announced plans to construct several incinerator facilities to manage the growing waste crisis.

**Incinerators: A Recipe for Disaster?

Incineration is a widely controversial method of waste disposal. Proponents argue that it provides a quick and efficient way to reduce waste, while opponents point out the serious health and environmental risks associated with it. Eritrea’s plans to build several incinerators have sparked widespread concern among local residents, environmental groups, and international organizations.

The Eritrean government has been secretive about the project’s details, fuelling further skepticism. Experts have raised several red flags, including concerns over:

• Air pollution: Incinerators emit harmful pollutants such as dioxins, furans, and heavy metals into the air, posing serious health risks to local residents.
• Lack of environmental assessments: It appears that no thorough environmental impact assessments have been conducted, ignoring potential risks to Eritrea’s fragile ecosystems.
• Financial implications: Incinerators are costly to maintain and operate, raising questions about the financial viability of the project and the burden it may place on the government and taxpayers.

The Dark Side of "Development" in Eritrea

Eritrea’s autocratic government has been accused of suppressing dissent and disregarding human rights. Critics argue that the incinerator project is yet another example of the government prioritizing economic "development" over people’s health, well-being, and basic rights.

Activists have launched campaigns to raise awareness about the issue, and several international organizations have expressed their concerns. Human rights groups, in particular, are worried that the project will lead to further erosion of people’s rights, including the right to a safe and healthy environment.

The Search for Alternative Solutions

Eritrea cannot afford to neglect the waste management crisis any longer. Instead of incineration, the government should explore alternative solutions that prioritize public health and the environment. These alternatives could include:

• Composting: Composting organic waste can provide a valuable source of fertilizer, reducing the need for chemical-based alternatives.
• Recycling: Recycling programs can reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, conserve natural resources, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Proper disposal: Ensuring that waste is disposed of properly, in lined landfills, can reduce environmental and health risks.

Eritrea must recognize that its waste management woes cannot be solved overnight. However, by engaging in open dialogue, conducting thorough assessments, and prioritizing alternative solutions, the government can ensure a safer and more sustainable future for its citizens.

Conclusion

Eritrea’s plan to construct incinerator facilities has sparked alarm and concern. Rather than moving forward with a questionable project, the government must reassess its priorities and invest in alternative, environmentally friendly, and socially responsible solutions. It is crucial that the international community stands in solidarity with Eritrea’s residents and demands transparency, accountability, and a commitment to protecting people’s health and the environment.