[CPEO-BIF] Debris Reduction in the Gulf States

[lsiegel@cpeo.org]

SELECTED SUGGESTIONS FOR DEBRIS REDUCTION RESULTING FROM THE KATRINA &
RITA DISASTERS

John E. Gibbons Associates 
October 4, 2005
 
The destructive passages of hurricanes Katrina and Rita through the
central and western U.S. Gulf States have created an enormous inventory
of debris. The quantity of debris is expected to reach several hundred
million cubic yards as additional buildings and structures are declared
total losses. In our opinion, the estimates appear to be understated and
subject to substantial growth. Clearly, the United States has not before
experienced the creation of such an environmental nightmare in such a
short period of time. 
 
Acceptable debris disposal  is a primary concern. Early suggestions,
based largely on expediency, mention  open burning as a primary  debris
disposal method.  Open burning is proposed by the several States
affected by Katrina and supported by FEMA.  Accordingly, NIOSH has again
published its  collection of open burning advisories and EPA continues
to work on  "Draft Debris Removal Plans for LA, AL, and MS"  which are
in final review. The degree of reliance on open burning may be addressed
in these plans, but it is unlikely burning will be treated
quantitatively as to environmental effects, since the debris quantity
estimates are so uncertain.  Alternative, more environmentally and
health protective solutions may also be of use given the magnitude of
the problem. Debris that is mixed with known or unknown contaminants,
should be subject to greater assessment and more careful treatment than
open burning or land filling may provide. Additionally, it is unlikely
that sufficient landfill capacity is available for the quantities of
debris that will be generated over the next few years. Other solutions
must be brought into play promptly to avert additional stresses on the
environment and the health and safety of the population.  
 
One solution for debris disposal  is the rapid introduction of recycling
facilities coupled with electric power generation utilizing the
controlled burning of combustible debris. A very high percentage of
combustibles including wood are anticipated in most of the debris, hence
the invocation of open burning as a solution. An appropriately designed
facility will experience a reduction of over 95% of the debris by weight
(3-5% ash) with significant electric power generation resulting.  A
standard design with variable sizing reflecting local requirements could
be accomplished in a relatively short period and orders placed for
equipment while individual sites are selected and prepared for
installation. From start to facility operation should consume no more
than 10 months. No operational facilities reflecting the basic
technologies to be employed are in place in the United States but many
comparable examples exist in Japan and Western Europe. Facility
placement at the present location of the debris will significantly
reduce expensive transport and re-handling. The facility would blend in
with commercial and industrial complexes and require a minimum of
acreage for placement. Contaminant releases associated with the
facilities will not exceed current regulatory standards. Capacities
might range from 50 tons per day to several thousand tons of debris
consumed depending upon local needs. Primary manufacturing of the
components can be undertaken in existing commercial facilities within
the affected States and a local workforce recruited and fully trained
within the suggested time period.  State and local governments and other
interested agencies of government would  necessarily be required to
enable and accelerate permitting and siting as well as contribute to
introduction of concepts such as sustainability as might be locally
beneficial 

A publicly funded feasibility study incorporating preliminary design
issues, construction budget requirements, efficiencies, transportability
issues, environmental requirements and selection of location(s)
(including community acceptance and needs) would coincide with
establishment of a debris reduction/power generation business. There may
be other appropriate business models to be suggested and considered.  It
is assumed that this undertaking will receive tax considerations
commensurate with the public service rendered from the communities,
respective States and Federal government. A competent and experienced
professional team has been assembled to immediately pursue this
suggestion with any appropriate parties. 
 
 
 
John E. Gibbons, Principal 
John E. Gibbons Associates 
1115 Ranch Point Way 
Antioch, California 94531-8052 
Phone & FAX: 925-756-6921 
E-Mail: JEGCA@aol.com

-- 


Lenny Siegel
Director, Center for Public Environmental Oversight
c/o PSC, 278-A Hope St., Mountain View, CA 94041
Voice: 650/961-8918 or 650/969-1545
Fax: 650/961-8918
<lsiegel@cpeo.org>
http://www.cpeo.org
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