Environmental consequences of Maltese MSW incineration

Abstract

The intensity of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) generation by human and economic activities causes environmental impacts, particularly critical in small insular countries, such as Malta. Thus, an investigation of the potential of Maltese MSW incineration with energy recovery was performed in this work focused on thermodynamic and land use aspects. The electricity potential of an MSW incinerator with associated electrical power plant to be built in Malta can be estimated as 5% of the total energy consumed in 2010 in the archipelago; alternatively, in a CHP configuration, it can also supply all the thermal energy required in 2010 for Multi-Effect Desalination. During its lifespan the plant can reduce deposition in landfills by at least 270,000 m2 (0.09% of the archipelago total area), diminishing also the potential for water and soil contamination. Last but not least, it can contribute to decrease the dependence on imported fossil fuels.