Problem of Improper Disposal of Infectious Waste - Yokohama City, May 2002

Problem of Improper Disposal of Infectious Waste - Yokohama City, May 2002

Construction of a new infectious waste recycling plant is underway in Yokohama City, but it has brought to light the fact that existing waste incineration processes are not being carried out properly. In particular, infectious waste from medical institutions contains not only pathogens and viruses, but also hazardous substances such as dioxin, lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg). Inappropriate incineration and illegal dumping of this waste has resulted in serious air and soil contamination.

For example, some processors were found to be incinerating waste at substandard temperatures of 800°C, which increases the risk of dioxin formation. Proper treatment requires incineration at a temperature of at least 1200°C, but in many cases, low-temperature incineration has been chosen to reduce costs.

Furthermore, the survey revealed that approximately 500 tons of untreated waste is illegally dumped at nearby industrial waste disposal sites each year by companies that improperly dispose of infectious waste. This practice poses a serious environmental risk to the entire Kanagawa Prefecture, and there is concern that it could have a significant negative impact on public health.

To address this issue, Yokohama City, in cooperation with Hitachi Medical, a medical equipment manufacturer, is now in the process of opening a new recycling plant that will introduce advanced incineration technology capable of burning waste at temperatures above 1,200°C. The plant will have the capacity to process 800 tons per year. The plant will have a processing capacity of 800 tons per year and aims to properly manage and dispose of infectious waste in the surrounding area.