Nations turn to burning plastic-heavy waste for energy despite health and climate concerns

As countries worldwide grapple with mounting plastic pollution and climate change pressures, a growing number are embracing a controversial solution: burning municipal waste to create fuel. This approach, known as refuse-derived fuel (RDF), has sparked intense debate among environmental experts who warn it may cause more harm than good.

RDF involves processing and burning a mixture of combustible waste materials—typically about 50% plastic combined with wood, cardboard, and textiles. The waste is dried, shredded, and then incinerated in waste-to-energy facilities, cement kilns, or industrial plants like paper mills. Supporters tout this method as a win-win solution that reduces landfill waste, tackles plastic pollution, and cuts greenhouse gas emissions by replacing fossil fuels. Some even promote RDF as part of the circular economy.

However, critics argue that burning plastic-heavy waste simply substitutes one dirty fuel source for another. The high plastic content in RDF releases significant greenhouse gases along with dangerous pollutants, including particulate matter and toxic chemicals like dioxins—known byproducts of plastic combustion. Environmental experts are particularly concerned about the complex mix of chemicals found in plastic polymers, which can create unpredictable and potentially harmful emissions when burned.

As this global trend accelerates, the fundamental question remains: Is burning our waste problem away a genuine climate solution, or are we simply trading one environmental crisis for another? The answer may determine the health of both our planet and communities worldwide.