6.5.   Waste incineration plants



Denmark has invested considerable resources in waste incineration because it reduces the volume of waste and enables the heat to be exploited in district heating systems. In this way 2 million tonnes waste is reduced to 0.4 million tonnes slag. In recent years the incineration process has also been exploited for electricity production. There are in all 38 plants in Denmark covering the majority of the country’s municipalities. It is usual practice for Municipalities to establish joint facilities for waste treatment.

EC requirements as to incineration techniques and flue gas abatement measures are detailed in Directives 89/369 and 89/429. The European requirements are based on the notion that incineration plants are major sources of pollution and hence need to be operated with great care.

Denmark had become aware of Dutch experiences prior to the EC initiative, and had already initiated more stringent measures. The EC has given Member States a 1995/96 deadline for compliance with the requirements at existing plants. However, with the exception of 3 plants, the Danish plants were already in compliance in 1991.

Progress with respect to waste incineration plants has been positive, the measures undertaken in 1987-90 undoubtedly having led to a significant reduction in air pollution.