Burning household rubbish as a source of energy is proving to be one of the dirtiest methods of power generation in the UK, with alarming consequences for both the environment and public health. According to recent BBC analysis, nearly half of the rubbish from UK homes—much of it plastic—is now incinerated, emitting greenhouse gases equivalent to those produced by coal power, which was recently phased out in the country. This trend is being condemned by scientists as a "disaster for the climate."
The increase in waste incineration has come as councils sought to avoid costly landfill fees, resulting in a significant rise in the number of incinerators. In just five years, the number of such facilities in England has surged from 38 to 52. While burning food waste can produce fewer harmful emissions, the same cannot be said for plastics, which release high levels of greenhouse gases when incinerated. In fact, burning plastic generates 175 times more carbon dioxide than burying it in landfill.
This reliance on waste incineration not only contradicts the UK's climate goals—aiming for no carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2030—but also poses serious health risks to communities living near these facilities. As incinerators proliferate, local authorities are often locked into long-term contracts, leaving them unable to pivot towards cleaner, more sustainable waste management solutions. The current practices are stifling recycling efforts, as councils fear financial penalties for not meeting minimum waste delivery requirements to incinerators.
The UK must seek clean and sustainable energy alternatives to reduce its carbon footprint and protect public health. Embracing methods such as recycling, composting, and anaerobic digestion can significantly decrease reliance on incineration while promoting a circular economy. It's crucial for policymakers to reconsider their approach and prioritize genuinely sustainable practices that not only mitigate climate change but also foster healthier communities. The time for change is now; the future of the UK's environment and public health depends on it.
•
•
•
3 w
Dear Videlis Eddie Your climate warning has received over 50 agrees! We have reached out to United Kingdom 🇬🇧 by email and requested a response. I will keep you updated on any progress! To reach more people and increase the chance of a response, click the Share button above to share the review on your social accounts. For every new member that joins We Don't Have Time from your network, we will plant a tree and attribute it to you! /Adam, We Don't Have Time
•
•
5 w
Burning waste for energy might seem like a quick fix, but it’s a significant setback for the UK’s environmental goals. Instead of reducing our carbon footprint, incineration is locking in high levels of emissions while diverting attention and resources from more sustainable options.
•
•
5 w
@frankoh_kihm_080 well said... In this era we should not be looking for quick fixes rather sustainable solutions...
•
•
5 w
Burning rubbish as a power source feels like a step backward
•
•
5 w
@dickson_mutai i know... The UK and rest of the world needs to focus on sustainable solutions that will help boost circularity of waste, proper waste management and renewable energy
•
•
5 w
This is absurd!! It contributes to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, undermining efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources. The focus should be on reducing waste and investing in sustainable energy solutions.
•
•
5 w
@walter_lungayi they're trying to kill two birds with one stone but not in a safe eco-friendly and sustainable way
•
•
5 w
This is absurd!! It contributes to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, undermining efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources. The focus should be on reducing waste and investing in sustainable energy solutions.
•
•
5 w
@walter_lungayi i this is a lesson for all to learn... Before you do anything you need to put a lot of consideration, research and consult experts .. which clearly the UK did not do
•
•
5 w
The relevant government ought to stand for what is right and reduce the kind of pollution brought about by burning all the waste.
•
•
5 w
@jane_wangui The need to be schooled on safe ways of dealing with waste
•
•
5 w
It is very crucial to raise awareness about the impact of burning rubbish for energy! Finding cleaner alternatives can lead to a healthier planet. 🌍
•
•
5 w
@gorffly_mokua absolutely
•
•
5 w
The uk government ought to come up with better ways of dealing with their pollution and do away with practices as such that bring more harm than good to our environment.
•
•
5 w
@rosebellendiritu I completely agree! Innovative solutions are essential for effective pollution management and protecting our environment.
•
•
5 w
@rosebellendiritu well said i second your sentiments... They need to look for Better eco-friendly and sustainable solutions
•
•
5 w
@rosebellendiritu We do need sustainable alternatives like recycling and composting