Environmental impact assessment of electricity production from municipal solid waste in Yangon, Myanmar

Abstract

An environmental impact assessment of the Yangon waste-to-energy plant was performed using a modified version of the Leopold matrix to analyse the environmental and socio-economic implications. The results revealed significant environmental impacts on air, water and soil as a result of the inadequate management of incineration ash and leachate. On the social front, the project did not present any major concerns. The assessment also showed that gate fee and revenue from electricity production were not sufficient to meet the operating costs. Overall, the environmental impact assessment revealed that the project is not sustainable. Mitigation measures for significant impacts, particularly the implementation of adequate pollution control technologies for air pollutants and leachate, were suggested, along with monitoring plans. Additionally, supporting policies and the specification of emission standards for potential contaminants were recommended to enhance sustainability.