Combustion of Municipal Solid Waste in the Netherlands: Emissions Occurringduring Combustion Dispersal of Dioxins and the Associated Risks

摘要

During the second half of 1989 high dioxin concentrations were found in cow'smilk originating from areas located near municipal solid waste (MSW) incinerators. These findings led to a program for the measurement by TNO of the emissions from all Dutch MSW incinerators. This measurement program not only covered the emission of dioxins, but also of other components, in particular those mentioned in the Incineration Directive 1985 (RV'85). At each MSW incineration plant the Dutch Inspectorate of Public Health for Environmental Protection (IMH) carried out an ensuing inquiry, testing the emission measurements for compliance with licences and directives. At the same time RIVM investigated the dispersion and occurrence of dioxins in air, soil and among cattle (cow's milk), as well as exposure of and possible risks for the Dutch population. The results of these investigations were used to develop a mathematical model that can be used as a policy tool to estimate the risks of dioxin emissions and the consequences of policy measures.