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

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

#### 1990s: Japan's Leadership in Incineration Technology During the 1990s, Japan led the world in introducing waste incineration facilities and advancing technological innovation. By 1998, approximately 70% of the world's incineration facilities were concentrated in Japan, driven by its high urbanization rate and limited land area. With landfill space scarce, incineration emerged as the most practical waste disposal method, spurring technological development.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare promoted technologies enabling high-temperature incineration to reduce dioxin emissions, aiming to spread large-scale incinerators capable of 24-hour operation. Consequently, local governments successively introduced these facilities, utilizing national subsidies. Higher incineration temperatures suppressed dioxin generation, while advances in flue gas treatment technology significantly reduced environmental impact. The enactment of the "Special Measures Law Concerning Dioxins" in 1997 also served as a crucial turning point, further spurring technological innovation. Meanwhile, Japanese incineration facilities also focused intensely on energy recovery. Numerous incineration plants with power generation capabilities became operational, establishing a system that not only processed waste but also effectively utilized it. This approach addressed Japan's unique characteristics as a densely populated country with limited resources, drawing attent
ion from other nations.

Compared to Western countries, Japan positioned incineration as central to its waste management strategy, whereas Western nations prioritized increasing recycling rates and reducing landfill disposal. This difference meant Japan's incineration technology held potential for application abroad, yet also presented challenges in adapting to varying regional policies and cultural contexts. ---

#### 2010s: Strengthened Environmental Measures and Technological Innovation During the 2010s, Japan promoted reducing environmental impact and improving energy recovery efficiency in waste treatment. Notably, dioxin emissions were significantly reduced, decreasing by approximately 90% by 2010. Additionally, facilities were upgraded to enable high-efficiency energy recovery, and improvements were made to facilities contributing to CO₂ emission reductions.

In Europe, recycling rates increased and waste generation was curbed. Countries like Germany and the Netherlands achieved recycling rates exceeding 60%, treating incineration as a last resort. Meanwhile, Sweden advanced energy recovery from waste, with electricity generated by incineration facilities accounting for about 5% of domestic demand.

In Asia, emerging economies like China and India saw increased waste generation alongside economic growth and urbanization. In response, large-scale incineration facilities were constructed. For example, Shanghai, China, operates one of the world's largest incineration plants, processing approximately 3,000 tons of waste daily. However, concerns remain about air pollutant emissions from these facilities, necessitating further environmental measures. ---

#### 2020s: Shift Towards Sustainable Waste Management Entering the 2020s, countries worldwide are shifting from incineration towards recycling and reuse to achieve sustainable waste management. Reducing plastic waste and utilizing renewable energy have become particularly critical challenges. New initiatives are also advancing globally, such as introducing waste management systems leveraging digital technology and implementing citizen-participation recycling programs.

In Japan, technological development of incineration facilities continues, targeting improved energy efficiency and decarbonization. Notably, the proportion of facilities incorporating power generation capabilities is increasing, drawing attention to waste management integrated with renewable energy policies. --- ### Historical Assessment and Future Challenges The technology and policies surrounding waste incineration facilities underwent significant evolution from the 1990s to the 2020s. Japan, in particular, has led the world in dioxin reduction and energy recovery technology development, with its achievements receiving international recognition. However, Japan's approach differs from the recycling and reuse-focused policies of Western countries, reflecting regionally specific challenges and differing priorities. Future challenges include the following: 1. **Regional Policy Coordination and International Cooperation**
It is necessary to coordinate differing waste management priorities across nations and share international standards and goals. 2. **Further Reduction of Environmental Impact** Technological innovation is required to bring harmful substance emissions from incineration facilities close to zero. 3. **Sustainable Energy Utilization** Mechanisms must be strengthened to efficiently recover energy generated during incineration and integrate it with renewable energy policies.

4. **Realizing a Circular Economy** Policies and technologies promoting recycling and reuse, not just incineration, must be developed. Waste management is a critical challenge requiring the balance of environmental conservation and socioeconomic development. Continued international cooperation will be essential to explore sustainable solutions, with further technological innovation and policy advancement expected.