General Accountability

Currently, Newfoundland and Labrador has 53 uncontrolled municipal waste incinerators servicing 187,438 people. Two of these incinerators are fuel assisted and the remainder are conical waste combusters. It is the intention of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to phase-out these incinerators. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has developed a “Phase-out Strategy” and has incorporated this strategy into Policy Directive PPD2001-02. As well, A Provincial Waste Management Strategy has been developed which addresses existing incinerators. The Policy Directive also addresses new incineration facilities. It is expected that by 2005 there will be a 40% reduction in atmospheric mercury emissions from 2000 levels. By 2008 there will be a 98% reduction in atmospheric mercury emissions from existing incinerators. This will be achieved by the closure of existing incinerators and subsequent waste land-filled or incinerated at a new facility which will meet the CWS.

Public Role/Transparency

A Provincial Waste Management Strategy has a public consultation process incorporated into it.

Access to Information

Information respecting facility performance is generally made available to the general public, upon request. However, very limited information is available as stack testing is not possible due to design on existing conical waste combusters.

Verifiable Progress

Verification will come from closures of existing incinerators.

Co-benefits

It is generally accepted that if emissions of mercury are reduced, a significant reduction in emissions of particulate matter and dioxins and furans will also be realized.

Life-cycle issues

These considerations will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.