Victoria’s Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee has held three days of public hearings into the role of waste-to-energy infrastructure in the state’s future waste management strategy.
The inquiry examines environmental impacts, public health concerns, costs, emissions, transport impacts, and how waste-to-energy fits within a circular economy framework.
In Sunbury, community groups and environmental advocates voiced strong opposition to incineration-based projects, raising concerns about pollution, health risks, increased traffic, and impacts on local communities.
Experts warned that waste incineration technologies can be inherently polluting, while others – including regulators – point to advances in modern facilities that significantly reduce harmful emissions.
Proponents argue waste-to-energy is essential for managing residual waste that cannot be recycled, with industry and councils saying it may be the only viable large-scale alternative to landfill.
The debate also carries economic weight, particularly in regions like the Latrobe Valley, where transitioning industries are seeking new job opportunities.
The committee is expected to deliver its final report by August. Learn more about the inquiry via the Victorian Parliament website: https://vicparl.news/4e5RFao
