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DEFRA is continually evaluating research relevant to energy from waste as our departmental priority is to secure a healthy environment in which we and future generations can prosper. In particular over the last ten years, we have commissioned and evaluated the following research:
Emissions (i) “Emissions from waste management: framework for assessment of data quality and research needs”; the project is still underway.
Emissions and ash by-products (i) and (ii) 'Review of Environmental and Health Effects of Waste Management: Municipal Solid Waste and Similar Wastes’; published in 2004.
In May 2002 the Environment Agency produced its own report on solid residues from municipal incineration. It has not commissioned outside bodies to carry out research in this area. It evaluates reports that come to light in order to keep abreast of developments but does not maintain a list of these.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has commissioned no research in this area in the last ten years but recently reviewed the latest research on the health effects of modern municipal waste incinerators. It concludes that while it is not possible to rule out adverse health effects completely, any potential damage from modern, well-run and regulated incinerators is likely to be so small that it would be undetectable. Moreover, it recommends that since any possible health effects of emissions are likely to be very small, studies of public health around modern, well managed municipal waste incinerators are not recommended. A statement can be found on the HPA's website.