As landfills struggle to cope with Vietnam’s growing waste problem, the country is exploring waste-to-energy (WtE) plants as a potential solution. However, this approach raises questions about its effectiveness and environmental impact.
The Growing Waste Problem
Vietnam generates approximately 68,000 tonnes of solid waste each day, with about 60% originating from urban areas. This figure is projected to rise by 16% by 2025, placing immense pressure on the country’s 1,200 landfills. In Ho Chi Minh City, the Tay Bac waste facility receives over 3,000 tonnes of rubbish daily, leading to severe air pollution and environmental degradation. Residents in the vicinity endure unpleasant odors and health risks due to leachate-contaminated groundwater.
Transitioning to Waste-to-Energy
In response to this crisis, construction began in July on Vietnam’s first WtE incineration plant at the Tay Bac facility. The Tam Sinh Nghia project aims to convert waste into electricity, generating up to 1,216 gigawatt-hours (GWh) annually. While this initiative promises to alleviate some of the pressures on landfills, the incineration process introduces its own environmental concerns, including air pollution and toxic emissions.
Emissions and Environmental Concerns
Vietnam’s waste management sector emits around 21 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent annually, with landfills being significant sources of methane emissions. WtE incineration could potentially mitigate these emissions by reducing waste volume by up to 90% while generating electricity. However, critics highlight the potential for increased pollution and health risks associated with modern incineration technologies.
Changing Perceptions and Technology Adoption
Historically, Vietnam was hesitant to adopt WtE due to concerns over environmental impacts and the suitability of the technology. However, recent successes, like the first WtE plant in Can Tho, which processes 400 tonnes of waste daily, have shifted perspectives. The plant not only helps manage local waste but also generates 150,000 kWh of electricity daily, although this still falls short of the city’s total consumption.
Investments and Future Developments
Vietnam currently has three operational WtE plants, with plans for 15 more under construction, supported by domestic and international investors. The government encourages WtE investments by offering preferential electricity prices, drawing interest from neighboring countries looking to replicate Vietnam’s model.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the push for WtE, challenges remain. Most waste in Vietnam is unsorted, complicating incineration processes. Additionally, there are concerns about emissions from smaller, traditional incinerators, which have historically contributed to dioxin pollution. The regulatory environment must ensure modern facilities maintain high standards for emissions control, but existing monitoring frameworks may not adequately address the release of harmful substances.
A Cautious Future
As Vietnam grapples with its waste crisis, the WtE solution presents both opportunities and risks. While it could help manage waste and generate energy, the environmental implications of incineration warrant careful consideration. Experts advocate for prioritizing sustainable practices like composting, recycling, and proper waste segregation, which could support a circular economy and reduce methane emissions more effectively than incineration alone.
Ultimately, the path forward for Vietnam’s waste management will depend on balancing technological advancements with a commitment to environmental protection and community health. As the country explores innovative solutions, integrated waste management strategy remains essential for sustainable progress.
