Madam, – I was quoted in the article (“New levies may scupper plans to restart Poolbeg incinerator work”, January 4th) in the context of waste incineration. This citation out of context accrues the wrong impression, that the German Greens are promoting incineration. The correct position is: “waste to energy” has to be the last step in a hierarchy after avoidance, reuse and recycling, to deal with the leftovers. Therefore, the capacity of an incinerator has to match the local demand, otherwise there will be no incentive for avoidance and recycling.
The presentation referred to was specific to the situation and waste infrastructure in Germany, especially in the context of mechanical and biological treatment (MBT). The paper is not intended as a prescription for everywhere in Europe. – Yours, etc,