After much debate, the proposed Clarington incinerator has been approved by Durham Region council.
After a debate which has been heated on both sides, and after around 70 people and groups expressed concerns about the project, the motion passed 16-12.
Once the approval process is complete, the incinerator is slated to open in 2013. Up to 140,000 tonnes of garbage left over from recycling is expected to be incinerated at the site. Ash produced by the project is expected to be shipped to a dump in New York State.
Some local residents have voiced concerns that the incinerator may not be as safe as is currently believed. Some residents asked for a referendum on this issue.
The Region's medical officer of health, Dr. Robert Kyle, was quoted as saying
"The risks are acceptable, based on the norms. That's the best we can say"
The Toronto Star notes that the company which is expected to run the incinerator has been fined in the past for emissions at other incinerators.
The Ontario Ministry of the Environment is expected to announce whether it approves the project early next year.
You can also read more information on the Durham Incinerator:
- Previous GreenGTA coverage: Durham Region Incinerator to Skip Air Quality Testing
- Toronto Star: Durham approves Clarington incinerator
- Toronto Star: Durham okays incinerator firm despite fears
- Durhamregion.com Durham OK's incinerator
- Yorkregion.com York-Durham incinerator on track
Image by Fin Fahey
