Context: The plan to incinerate 337 tonnes of chemical waste from the Bhopal gas tragedy in Pithampur has generated mixed reactions on the process of incineration.
About Incineration
• Incineration is a waste management method that involves the controlled burning of materials at elevated temperatures to reduce their volume, neutralize harmful substances, and recover energy.
Arguments in Favor of Incineration
• Safe disposal: Incineration at high temperatures can efficiently eliminate most hazardous chemicals, minimizing the risk of contamination.
• Energy recovery: The heat produced during incineration can be harnessed to generate electricity or steam, serving as a source of energy.
• Space-saving: Incineration greatly decreases the volume of waste, reducing the reliance on landfills.
Arguments Against Incineration
• Harmful emissions: If not properly managed, incineration can release pollutants like dioxins, furans, and heavy metals.
• Health risks: Exposure to these pollutants can elevate the risk of respiratory issues, cancer, and other health concerns.
• Air and water pollution: The residual ash and flue gases from incineration can contaminate both air and water.
• High costs: Constructing and operating an incinerator is costly, and the process demands substantial maintenance.
Alternative Solutions to Incineration
• Secure landfill disposal: This method involves placing the waste in a specially designed landfill with multiple protective layers to prevent leakage.
• Vitrification: This technique melts the waste at high temperatures to create a solid glass block that is stable and non-leachable.
• Plasma arc technology: This technology employs a high-temperature plasma to break down the waste into its basic elements, which can then be safely disposed of.
