Frank Feighan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 17: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the length of time it will take to establish a mechanical and biological treatment system on the scale which would only leave 400,000 tonnes of waste for incineration; if this system will be established in time to meet EU landfill directives; the estimated cost of establishing MBT on this scale; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43148/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The projections to which I have referred, for 2016, are based on the existence by then of mechanical and biological treatment (MBT) on the necessary scale. Relevant issues in that regard, such as the implementation timescale and cost of putting MBT in place, are being examined in depth in the International Review of Waste Management Policy that is currently underway. The initial targets under the Landfill Directive are more immediate as they relate to 2010 and the existing measures under the National Biodegradable Waste Strategy are designed to achieve these targets.

I have also indicated my intention to introduce primary legislation to allow significant increases in the landfill levy and a Regulatory Impact Analysis for this purpose has just been completed. My Department, in addition, is working with industry towards the development of a Statutory Instrument for the segregation of commercial biodegradable waste. The roll out of the 'brown bin' source-segregated collection system for organic waste is a core element of the National Strategy on Biodegradable Waste and will play a critical role in accelerating the diversion of organic waste from landfill as required by the EU Landfill Directive. A circular on the matter issued to local authorities on 31 July 2008 and is available on my Department's website. I am confident that these measures will contribute significantly to the attainment of the targets for the diversion of biodegradable waste from landfill.