Guidelines for Low-Cost Incineration Systems

Abstract

In low-income countries, effective waste management remains a critical challenge, with incineration emerging as a practical solution to reduce waste volumes and mitigate environ mental health risks. This report examines the feasibility and performance of three incineration technologies- De Montfort incinerators, barrel incinerators, and open pits- in the context of low-income settings. The study evaluates each technology based on parameters such as construction cost, operational efficiency, emissions, and ease of maintenance. Additionally, it explores strategies for managing bottom ash, focusing on its safe disposal and potential for resource recovery. The potential for harnessing energy from incineration processes is also an alyzed, assessing the viability of energy recovery systems adapted to local conditions. Our f indings indicate that while De Montfort and barrel incinerators offer more controlled combus tion and lower emissions compared to open pits, the latter remains prevalent due to its minimal cost and simplicity. For proper low-cost incineration, the most effective and safest solution is to build a de Montfort incinerator. Proper bottom ash management is also critical to minimize en vironmental contamination, with options including stabilization, landfilling, and recycling for construction materials. Energy recovery presents a promising avenue, yet its implementation is still hampered by technical and financial barriers, though harnessing incineration heat may still be possible in a low- and middle-income setting. The report concludes with recommenda tions for optimizing incineration practices in low-income countries, emphasizing the need for context-specific solutions that balance environmental protection, public health, and economic constraints.