### Global Waste Incineration Facility Trends (1990s-2020s)

### Global Waste Incineration Facility Trends (1990s-2020s)

#### 1990s: Japanese incineration technology advantages

In the 1990s, Japan was at the forefront of the world in the introduction and technological innovation of waste incineration facilities: in 1998, approximately 70% of the world's incineration facilities were concentrated in Japan, due to the country's high urbanization rate and small land area. In Japan, where it is difficult to secure landfill sites for waste, incineration was considered the most practical method, and technological development was underway.

With the goal of reducing dioxin emissions, the Ministry of Health and Welfare promoted technologies capable of high-temperature incineration and the widespread use of large incinerators capable of 24-hour operation. In response, local governments took advantage of government subsidies to introduce these facilities one after another. The Law Concerning Special Measures against Dioxins, enacted in 1997, was another important turning point that encouraged technological innovation.

At the same time, Japanese incineration facilities also focused on energy recovery. A number of incineration facilities with power generation capacity were put into operation, and a system was put in place to not only process waste but also to make effective use of it. This approach, which responded to Japan's characteristics as a country with high population density and limited resources, attracted the attention of other countries.

Compared to Western countries, Japan had positioned incineration as the core of its waste management, while in the West, increasing recycling rates and reducing landfill disposal were the main issues. While this difference led to expectations that Japanese incineration technology could be applied in other countries, it also raised the issue of dealing with policy and cultural differences in different regions.

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#### 2010s: strengthening environmental measures and technological innovation

In the 2010s, Japan promoted environmental impact reduction and more efficient energy recovery in waste disposal. In particular, progress was made in reducing dioxin emissions, with emissions down approximately 90% in 2010. In addition, facilities were upgraded to facilities with highly efficient energy recovery and improved facilities that contribute to CO₂ emissions reduction.

In Europe, progress was made in improving recycling rates and reducing waste generation. In Germany and the Netherlands, the recycling rate exceeds 60%, and incineration is considered a last resort. In Sweden, on the other hand, energy recovery from waste has advanced, with electricity generated at incineration facilities accounting for about 5% of domestic demand.

In Asia, emerging economies such as China and India have experienced an increase in waste generation due to economic growth and urbanization. In response, large-scale incineration facilities have been constructed. For example, in Shanghai, China, one of the world's largest incineration facilities, which processes approximately 3,000 tons of waste per day, is in operation. At the same time, however, there are concerns about air pollutant emissions from these facilities, and further environmental measures are required.

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#### 2020s: Shift to Sustainable Waste Management

In the 2020s, countries around the world are shifting from incineration to recycling and reuse with the goal of sustainable waste management. In particular, the reduction of plastic waste and the use of renewable energy are important issues. In addition, new initiatives such as the introduction of waste management systems that utilize digital technology and the development of citizen-participatory recycling programs are being promoted in many regions.

In Japan, technological development of incineration facilities continues with the aim of improving energy efficiency and decarbonization. In particular, the percentage of facilities with power generation capabilities is increasing, and waste management in conjunction with renewable energy policies is attracting attention.

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### Historical Assessment and Future Challenges

Waste incineration facility technologies and policies have evolved significantly from the 1990s through the 2020s. Japan, in particular, has led the world in the development of dioxin reduction and energy recovery technologies, and its achievements have received international recognition. However, Japan's approach differs from the policies of Western countries, which emphasize recycling and reuse, and reflects differences in regional challenges and priorities.

Future challenges include the following

1. **Regional policy coordination and international cooperation**.
Different waste management priorities in each country need to be coordinated and international standards and goals need to be shared.

2. **Further reduction of environmental impacts**.
Technological innovations are needed to bring emissions of hazardous substances from incineration facilities closer to zero.

3. **Sustainable energy use**.
Mechanisms to efficiently recover energy generated by incineration processes and link them to renewable energy policies must be strengthened.

4. **Recycle-oriented society**.
In addition to incineration, policies and technologies to promote recycling and reuse must be developed.

Waste management is an important issue that balances environmental conservation and social economy. Further technological innovation and policy progress is expected as sustainable solutions are sought through international cooperation.