25/05/07
Will future generations commend or condemn our policies on recycling and use of sewage sludge for energy? Will we pass the rocking chair test*? On current evidence a straight F is more likely.
Radical changes in policy and regulation are needed if the value of sludge is to be maximised. For example, existing Pollution Prevention Control regulations were not seen through the lens of climate change; in consequence they penalise companies that seek to generate biogas or combined heat and power from sludge.
The message is clear. However difficult, review and reform of rules that work against essential mitigation and adaptation must be preferable to continuing waste of a useful resource.
In this context a Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) briefing note published in April identifies some the policy blockers and suggests improvements.
* "Granny, what did you do about global warming?"
Contact: Steve Ntifo
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