Waste-To-Energy (WTE) Incineration is Not a Solution For Africa!
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In this episode, Weyinmi Okotie, Clean Air Program Manager for GAIA Africa, talks to Mariel Vilella — GAIA’s Global Climate Program Director, Rachel Muturi — IAWP’s Africa Region Coordinator, Eskedar Awgichew — Executive Director of Eco-Justice Ethiopia, and Mikhail Aruberito — Centre for Alternative Development. Together, they dive into the complex issue of Waste-to-Energy (WTE) incineration in Africa.
While incineration is often marketed as a quick fix for the continent’s waste and energy challenges, our guests unpack why it’s a false solution — one that risks deepening environmental injustice, straining public resources, and endangering community health. We also explore why Africa’s largely organic waste stream makes incineration impractical, and discuss real, people-centred alternatives that support clean air, circular economies, and resilient local livelihoods.
While incineration is often marketed as a quick fix for the continent’s waste and energy challenges, our guests unpack why it’s a false solution — one that risks deepening environmental injustice, straining public resources, and endangering community health. We also explore why Africa’s largely organic waste stream makes incineration impractical, and discuss real, people-centred alternatives that support clean air, circular economies, and resilient local livelihoods.
Chapters
- 00:05 Introduction to the Africa for Zero Waste Podcast
- 05:19 Why Waste-to-Energy Incineration is a False Solution
- 12:13 Impact of Waste-to-Energy Incineration on Waste Pickers' Livelihoods
- 15:25 Africa's Waste Stream Unsuitable for Incineration
- 21:09 Democratic Concerns with Waste-to-Energy Projects
- 26:39 The Myth that Incineration Works in Europe
- 33:33 Case Studies of Resistance to Waste-to-Energy Incinerators
- 37:23 Alternative Waste Management Solutions for Africa
- 44:17 Avoiding Pitfalls in Waste Management Decision-Making
- 48:28 Closing Thoughts on Sustainable Waste Management for Africa
