Anti-Incineration Roadshow (AIRshow)
In December 2011, HCWH-AP teamed up with EcoWaste Coalition and Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) to raise alarms over pending proposals to open waste incinerators masquerading as waste-to-energy facilities. The teams visited local governments and communities, and warned the citizens on the toxic byproducts of these facilities. According to the 2007 report of the US EPA, carbon-dioxide emissions per energy produced from incinerators are more significant than coal-fired power plants.
HCWH-AP, together with EcoWate and GAIA, urged the local government units not to be wooed by coated promises of corporations peddling dirty technologies, and for the public to remain vigilant against the spread of these air-destroying machines.
Incinerating waste can dump carcinogens and some of the most toxic man-made compounds into the air, including neuro-toxic heavy metals like mercury, lead, cadmium, and arsenic.
The gathering opened minds to environmentally sound waste management alternatives like waste segregation, re-use, recycling and composting. The groups also presented success stories about hospitals that have successfully managed their waste without burning.