Alternatives 'justify' the anti-EfW requete

At least three international waste-management companies believe that they can provide Guernsey with an alternative to the mass-burn incinerator set to be built at Longue Hougue. These alternatives emerged yesterday as the campaign against the proposed energy-from-waste plant gathered pace.

The Environment Department last week dismissed other options because there had been no significant breakthrough in the viability of new technology.

But Deputy Scott Ogier believes that these other options vindicate his requete, which calls for an independent review of the department's proposals and a reassessment of the practical options.

News of alternatives comes as anti-plant campaigners prepare a protest march on Sunday in the run-up to next week's States debate on the requete.

'I'm absolutely delighted with the news of UK companies offering alternatives to the plant.

'The fact that they are coming forward and are able to service a waste stream of our size shows that the market is very vibrant and options are out there that need to be looked at,' said Deputy Ogier.

'The fact that the plans have been in the pipeline for 10 years means that the concept is also 10 years old.

'Waste disposal has moved on and I believe that if we are to go ahead with the mass-burn incinerator, we will be left with technology that will soon be superseded by an emerging technology market.'

Three UK-based firms have expressed an interest in supplying the island with systems claimed to be cheaper and cleaner. One proposes to use plasma gasification, another pyrolysis and gasification and the third steam classification and recycling.

Deputy Ogier said States members should have input into a review but the panel should be independent.

The Environment Department will this weekend face public protests to its energy-from-waste plant.

'This is an opportunity for local residents to have their voice heard,' said organiser John Wills.

'There is a lot of opposition to the plant and we believe that this is the public's chance to send a message to the States members telling them to vote for the requete.'

The protest march will begin at 11am on Sunday from the coastal parking area at Bulwer Avenue.

'Personally and collectively we oppose the proposed mass burn incinerator. This proposal does not embrace the modern concept of waste management.

'We consume and do not take stock and this encourages that and does not make us think about reducing waste, reusing items and recycling,' said Mr Wills.

Deputy Ogier backs the demonstration.

'It is an excellent opportunity for the people of Guernsey to have their say.

'People in the island may have felt apathetic in the past but on Sunday they will have a chance to send a message to their deputies, who should heed it as the public elects them.'