Incineração

Incineração is a waste treatment process that involves the combustion of refuse materials. This method is primarily used for the disposal of municipal solid waste, medical waste, and hazardous waste. The process takes place in specialized facilities called incinerators or waste-to-energy plants, which are designed to control the burning and manage the emissions produced.

The primary goal of incineration is to reduce the volume and mass of waste, which can significantly decrease the amount of material sent to landfills. In addition, many modern incinerators are equipped with systems to recover energy from the combustion process, typically in the form of heat or electricity. This energy recovery aspect has led to the term "waste-to-energy" being commonly associated with incineration.

However, incineration also has environmental considerations. The combustion process can release pollutants into the atmosphere if not properly managed. Modern incinerators employ advanced pollution control technologies, such as scrubbers and filters, to capture harmful substances like dioxins, furans, heavy metals, and particulate matter. The ash remaining after incineration, which can include bottom ash and fly ash, also requires careful management and disposal, as it may contain concentrated pollutants. The ash can sometimes be used in construction materials, but often requires landfilling. Public perception and regulatory frameworks play a significant role in the acceptance and implementation of incineration technologies.