### Global Trends in Waste Incineration Facilities (1990s–2020s)

### Global Trends in Waste Incineration Facilities (1990s–2020s)

#### 1990s: Japan's Dominance in Incineration Technology

In the 1990s, Japan led the world in the development and implementation of waste incineration facilities. By 1998, approximately 70% of the world's incineration facilities were located in Japan. This was due to the country's high urbanization rate and limited land availability, making incineration the most practical method for waste management.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare promoted technologies capable of high-temperature incineration to reduce dioxin emissions, introducing large-scale incinerators capable of operating 24 hours a day. Local governments adopted these facilities with subsidies from the national treasury. These advancements improved high-temperature processing and flue gas treatment technologies, significantly reducing environmental impact. The enactment of the "Special Measures Law for Dioxins" in 1997 further accelerated technological innovation.

Japanese incineration facilities also emphasized energy recovery. Many facilities were equipped with power generation capabilities, enabling the effective utilization of waste beyond simple disposal. This approach was tailored to Japan's unique characteristics as a densely populated country with limited resources, attracting attention from other nations.

In comparison, European countries prioritized increasing recycling rates and reducing landfill dependency. Japan's focus on incineration positioned its technology as a potential model for global adoption, although differences in policies and cultural contexts posed challenges for its application in other regions.

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#### 2010s: Strengthened Environmental Measures and Technological Innovations

During the 2010s, Japan advanced its efforts to reduce environmental impact and improve energy recovery in waste management. Notably, dioxin emissions decreased by approximately 90% by 2010. Upgrades to facilities enabling high-efficiency energy recovery and carbon dioxide reduction were implemented.

In Europe, progress was made in recycling and waste reduction. Countries like Germany and the Netherlands achieved recycling rates exceeding 60%, relegating incineration to a last resort. In contrast, Sweden utilized waste-to-energy systems to generate about 5% of its national electricity from incineration facilities.

In Asia, emerging economies like China and India experienced rapid increases in waste generation due to urbanization and economic growth. Large-scale incineration facilities were constructed, including one in Shanghai capable of processing approximately 3000 tons of waste per day. However, concerns about air pollution from these facilities highlighted the need for stronger environmental measures.

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#### 2020s: A Shift Toward Sustainable Waste Management

By the 2020s, countries worldwide began shifting from incineration to recycling and reuse as part of sustainable waste management strategies. The reduction of plastic waste and the adoption of renewable energy became pressing issues. Digital technologies for waste management and citizen-participation recycling programs emerged as innovative solutions.

In Japan, efforts to improve energy efficiency and promote decarbonization in incineration facilities continued. The number of facilities with power generation capabilities increased, aligning waste management with renewable energy policies.

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### Historical Evaluation and Future Challenges

The technology and policies surrounding waste incineration facilities have evolved significantly from the 1990s to the 2020s. Japan has been a global leader in reducing dioxin emissions and advancing energy recovery technologies, earning international recognition. However, Japan's approach differs from the recycling-focused policies of Europe and the United States, reflecting regional priorities and challenges.

Future challenges include:

1. **Policy Coordination and International Cooperation**
Harmonizing differing priorities in waste management across countries and establishing shared international standards and goals.

2. **Further Reduction of Environmental Impact**
Advancing technologies to minimize emissions of harmful substances from incineration facilities.

3. **Sustainable Energy Utilization**
Efficiently recovering energy from incineration and integrating it with renewable energy policies.

4. **Realizing a Circular Economy**
Promoting policies and technologies that encourage recycling and reuse alongside incineration.

Waste management remains a critical issue balancing environmental conservation and socio-economic needs. Continued international cooperation and technological innovation will be essential for achieving sustainable solutions.