Letter: Ministry slips on apple skin

Sir: Improved emissions standards and the closure of dirty incinerators have reduced dioxin output from waste incineration, but despite the assertions of the director of the Energy from Waste Association (letter, 26 May) it still remains one of the larger sources (HMIP 1995 report). Indeed, the higher emissions standards now in operation are being used as

a justification for escalating the quantities of waste incinerated.

Incineration, no matter how technically efficient, will increase human exposure to these poisons, but there are simple and safe alternatives, such as waste reduction, recycling, composting and anaerobic digestion.

Dioxins and PCBs are found everywhere. They are fat-soluble and they concentrate up the food chain. For those who wish to limit their exposure, a reduced consumption of fats and animal produce and more plant-based foods will help.

MARTIN HUGHES-JONES

for South-west Green Party

Sampford Peverell, Devon