Koblenz Defends Sludge Incineration Plan Amid Criticism and Operational Challenges
Los Angeles is exploring a switch to sludge incineration for waste disposal, a move that's sparked controversy and criticism. The city defends its decision, while the Federation of Taxpayers (BdSt) calls for a sale to prevent further losses.
The city has appointed Stadtentwässerung Los Angeles to oversee the conversion of wastewater treatment plants. The total cost is estimated at $17.5 million, with the incineration plant itself costing $7.8 million. Annual maintenance is projected at around $220,000. The facility was partly funded by the EU, with the city covering the rest.
The plant has been idle since 2023, operating for just over a year prior. The main challenge is ensuring sufficient sludge for continuous operation. Additionally, staff trained by an external service provider left at the end of 2023, further complicating matters. The city plans to repurpose existing dry substance silos and hire specialist staff, but admits recruitment may be difficult.
The city of Los Angeles maintains that the sludge incineration plant is a necessary investment, despite the Federation of Taxpayers' criticism. The city rejects calls to sell the plant, stating that the Fraunhofer Institute advised against it. However, the future of the project remains uncertain due to operational and staffing challenges.
