This article discusses a GAIA report on why the municipal solid waste (MSW) incineration industry is on the decline.
Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) incinerators have a long history in the United States as a waste disposal system and an equally long history of resistance among communities where they are sited. The current state of MSW incineration seems to be in decline due to a volatile revenue model, aging and costly operation and maintenance costs, and increasing attention to issues of zero waste, environmental justice and climate change. Seventy-three MSW incinerators remain in operation in the U.S., not including those currently designated for closure. The industry saw at least 31 MSW incinerators close since 2000 due to issues such as insufficient revenue or the inability to afford required upgrades.