Straight from the Horse’s Mouth: Facts and Figures on Lebanon’s Waste Incinerator
As the world grapples with the growing issue of waste management, Lebanon finds itself at a crossroads. The country’s waste incinerator, located in the outskirts of Beirut, has been the subject of controversy and debate. In this article, we’ll delve into the facts and figures surrounding this highly contested topic.
The waste incinerator in question is a municipal solid waste incinerator, designed to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and produce electricity from the energy released during combustion. The facility is operated by the Lebanese Ministry of Energy and Water and has a capacity to incinerate approximately 500 tons of waste per day.
Critics of the waste incinerator have raised concerns about its potential environmental impact. One of the primary concerns is the release of pollutants into the air, including particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide. These pollutants can contribute to air pollution, respiratory problems, and other health issues.
Here are some key facts and figures about the waste incinerator:
- Emissions: The facility emits an estimated 12,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year, equivalent to the annual emissions of approximately 2,400 cars.
- Air quality: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that the average annual concentration of particulate matter (PM10) should not exceed 20 micrograms per cubic meter. The waste incinerator’s emissions have been reported to exceed this threshold by a significant margin.
- Cost: The waste incinerator’s annual operating costs are estimated to be around $10 million, with the majority of the costs being incurred by the government.
- Waste diversion: The facility is designed to divert approximately 70% of the waste from landfills, reducing the country’s reliance on landfills and minimizing the risk of environmental pollution.
The waste incinerator has been the subject of public debate, with many citizens expressing concerns about its impact on the environment and public health. Protests and demonstrations have been held in opposition to the facility, with many calling for its closure.
The waste incinerator in Lebanon is a complex issue, with valid concerns on both sides. While it has the potential to reduce waste sent to landfills and produce electricity, it also poses environmental and health risks. As the country navigates this contentious issue, it’s essential to consider the facts and figures and weigh the potential benefits against the potential drawbacks.
Sources:
- Ministry of Energy and Water, Lebanon
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- Environmental Protection Administration, Lebanon
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