Sir, - The EPA is pleased to acknowledge Louise Hadden's support (October 7th) for its promotion of hazardous waste prevention, minimisation, reuse and recycling. These initiatives form a key part of the recent proposed National Hazardous Waste Management Plan which has been published for public consultation. The EPA is confident that waste prevention and minimisation are possible and, as illustrated in companies regulated by the EPA under its licensing systems, considerable strides have been made in this direction.
The plan predicts significant growth in hazardous waste, and this emphasises the need for prevention. We must, however, acknowledge that it will take time to change Ireland's "throw away" culture. The EPA is therefore recommending the development of a "prevention ethos". Funding of £38 million for a waste prevention programme is proposed in the plan.
There will continue to be hazardous waste for which there is no other option but disposal. At the moment, Ireland is exporting large quantities of this for landfill and thermal treatment. Such a reliance on other countries is not socially or politically desirable. Landfill and thermal treatment facilities should exist in Ireland. Thermal treatment does not just mean incineration, but includes pyrolysis, gasification and high temperature melting.
There are currently nine licensed incinerators in this country and ongoing monitoring demonstrates that they are all operating to high standards.
In relation to dioxins, the EPA is preparing to carry out a further national survey early next year to assess if there have been any changes since the last survey in 1995. Particular attention will be given to those areas perceived to be at risk.
Finally, we would like to remind your readers that the proposed National Hazardous Waste Management Plan is currently available for consultation. We would be very pleased to get comments from all interested parties before November 30th. Information on the plan is available on the EPA's website at www.epa.ie. - Yours, etc., Anne Butler,
Director, Environmental Protection Agency, Johnstown Castle Estate, Co Wexford.