03-21-2008, 12:45 AM
Bob,
Thanks.
Regarding metal recycling and WTE:
As for specific metals, e.g., aluminum, I cannot say what does or does not happen. However, all the data, including EPA's, indicate metal recycling is a bit higher in communities with WTE than without, just like paper and plastic recycling is way lower in communities with WTE than without. This metal recycled out of WTE comes from what does not get removed/sorted before it goes in, with most metal separation happening before burning. It's just a quirk about WTE.
A couple of thoughts: if metal is not getting sorted, then neither are all manner of chemicals that are not supposed to go in either -- pesticides, heavy metals, and others. These end up in the local food chain.
James Weatherford, Ph.D.
15-1888 Hialoa
Hawaiian Paradise Park
Thanks.
Regarding metal recycling and WTE:
As for specific metals, e.g., aluminum, I cannot say what does or does not happen. However, all the data, including EPA's, indicate metal recycling is a bit higher in communities with WTE than without, just like paper and plastic recycling is way lower in communities with WTE than without. This metal recycled out of WTE comes from what does not get removed/sorted before it goes in, with most metal separation happening before burning. It's just a quirk about WTE.
A couple of thoughts: if metal is not getting sorted, then neither are all manner of chemicals that are not supposed to go in either -- pesticides, heavy metals, and others. These end up in the local food chain.
James Weatherford, Ph.D.
15-1888 Hialoa
Hawaiian Paradise Park