Landfill issue isn't over

A while ago, there was quite a bit of concern over a proposed landfill for the Yorkville/Kendall County area. The original permit application was pulled. But the issue wasn't over. A new permit for a smaller landfill was submitted. Although technology has greatly improved, many issues still remain with any landfill. Traffic, odor, noise, blowing debris and vectors (rodents, birds) are still concerns for affected residents. Unfortunately, landfills are the norm under existing state laws.

To reduce dependence on landfills, Rep. Patricia Reid Lindner offered House Bill 4426, the Plasma Arc Gasification Act. It was co-sponsored by Rep. Linda Chapa-LaVia. This bill would mandate the Illinois EPA adopt rules that provide an authorization process for plasma arc gasification or similar technologies as an alternative to landfill disposal of solid waste in the state. It also provides the EPA will establish a permitting program for companies wishing to conduct plasma arc gasification in Illinois.

Plasma-arc gasification would allow for garbage to be incinerated using high temperature plasma-arcs. This process would both generate electricity and create a rocklike product, "slag" that can be used in road construction. It also would reduce the state's dependence on landfilling garbage.

The bill passed the House. Sen. Chris Lauzen is the chief sponsor for this legislation in the Senate. If you would like to see an alternative to landfills, with the added benefit of energy production, please call you state senator and ask that they support HB4426.

Dean Myles

Aurora