Miami-Dade wants to burn trash for energy again, but locals are concerned

Florida officials are advancing plans to build the largest waste-to-energy facility in the United States, set to be located in Miami-Dade County. The $1.5 billion project aims to replace a previous facility that burned down in 2023 and is intended to process 50% more waste, converting 4,000 tons of garbage into energy each day.

Three potential sites have been identified for the new plant, but the proposal has met with resistance from residents in those areas. Concerns have been raised about the possibility of unpleasant odors emanating from the facility, as well as potential risks to air and water quality. The city of Miramar, located in Miami-Dade County, has even threatened to sue if a site within their borders is selected.

The nonprofit organization Florida Rising has also expressed opposition, protesting for alternative, more sustainable waste management solutions, such as composting, and telling the county to “innovate, not incinerate.”

Florida Rising has brought up previous health problems faced by locals living in area surrounding the old waste-to-energy plant, warning they could become prevalent again near this new facility.

“Residents have reported intense odors and eyes and throat burning, making it impossible to be outside as a result of the incinerator, and studies have shown that pollution from incinerators can cause respiratory problems, lung and skin cancer, kidney disease and increased risk of miscarriage,” Florida Rising said in a statement. “The proposed 4,000-ton-per-day incineration facility would be larger than the previous Doral facility and could create more health impacts due to its larger size.”

Officials involved in the project argue that the new plant will be built with advanced technology designed to mitigate environmental impact and reduce odors, addressing some of the criticisms from local residents and environmentalists. The site selection process for the plant is still ongoing. No timeline has been set for the start of construction.