Waste management is a pressing issue in many developing countries, including Cambodia. With the rapid growth of urbanization and industrialization, the amount of waste generated has increased significantly in recent years. According to a report by the World Bank, Cambodia generated about 2 million tons of solid waste in 2018, and this number is expected to double by 2035.
Traditionally, waste in Cambodia has been disposed of in open dumps or landfills, causing environmental pollution and health hazards for nearby communities. In recent years, the Cambodian government has recognized the need for more sustainable waste management solutions and has started investing in modern incineration technology as a viable option.
Incineration is a process in which waste is burned at high temperatures, usually between 800 to 1,200 degrees Celsius, to convert it into ash, flue gas, and heat. This technology not only reduces the volume of waste by up to 90%, but also minimizes the release of harmful pollutants into the environment compared to traditional waste disposal methods.
One of the most notable incineration projects in Cambodia is the Phnom Penh Waste-to-Energy Plant, also known as the Stung Meanchey Incinerator. This facility, which began operations in 2009, processes about 600 tons of solid waste per day, converting it into electricity for the national grid and ash for landfill cover. The plant has significantly reduced the amount of waste going to landfills, mitigating environmental pollution and improving public health in the capital city.
In addition to the Stung Meanchey Incinerator, several other incineration projects are being planned or implemented across Cambodia to address the growing waste management challenges. These facilities are expected to not only reduce the volume of waste going to landfills, but also contribute to the country’s energy security by generating electricity from waste.
However, despite the benefits of incineration, there are also concerns about its potential negative impacts on air quality and human health. Improperly operated incinerators can release toxic pollutants such as dioxins, furans, and heavy metals into the air, which can have harmful effects on people living near the facilities.
To address these concerns, it is essential for the Cambodian government and private sector to invest in advanced incineration technology that meets international standards for emissions control. This includes installing pollution control devices such as scrubbers, filters, and monitoring systems to ensure that the incinerators operate safely and efficiently.
Overall, incineration plays a crucial role in Cambodia’s waste management efforts, helping to reduce the volume of waste, minimize environmental pollution, and generate renewable energy. By embracing modern incineration technology and implementing rigorous environmental and health safeguards, Cambodia can achieve sustainable waste management practices that benefit both the environment and society.
