Tool for Evaluation of Impact Associated with MSW Incineration: LCA and Integrated Environmental Monitoring System

The environmental impact of a municipal solid waste incineration plant in Italy was evaluated by application of life cycle assessment and an integrated environmental monitoring system. Life cycle analysis revealed avoided environmental impacts in seven of 10 environmental impact categories considered, primarily through production of electric power from the heat of combustion. Emissions monitoring documented a general decline in emissions of manganese, nickel, zinc, mercury, and copper. Linkages between metal emissions and metal concentrations determined in soil samples of varying distances from the plant are considered.