Re: [CPEO-BIF] Debris Reduction in the Gulf States

[lsiegel@cpeo.org]

John Gibbons' article on Debris Reduction in areas impacted by
hurricanes Katrina and Rita raises important questions. Most observers
acknowledge the environmental risks posed by both open burning and
landfilling on such a large scale, but the alternatives haven't been obvious.

I don't expect to totally eliminate open combustion and land disposal,
but the type of system that Gibbons suggests offers both environmental
and economic advantages. Whoever is "in charge" should quickly evaluate
this option.

Environmental groups are likely to have questions about the products of
incomplete combustion likely to be released from contained combustion
(incineration) facilities, but they might accept contained burning over
open burning.

Communities may not want permanent disposal facilities in their
frontyards, but this approach appears to allow the utilization of
numerous, relatively small and transportable units.

Lenny Siegel

lsiegel@cpeo.org wrote:
> 
> 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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