Incineration
Incineration is a widely used waste management technique that involves the combustion of waste materials at high temperatures, typically between 800 and 1,200 degrees Celsius. This process significantly reduces the physical volume of waste, transforming solid waste into ash, flue gas, and heat. The main advantages of incineration include reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills and recovering energy that can be harnessed for electricity generation or heating. However, despite its benefits, incineration raises substantial environmental concerns, particularly regarding air pollution. It can emit harmful substances such as dioxins, furans, and particulate matter if not properly controlled. To mitigate these emissions, modern incineration facilities are often equipped with sophisticated air pollution control systems. Therefore, while incineration can be an effective waste management solution, it must be implemented with careful consideration of its environmental impacts.