Incinerator due to resume operations following temporary EPA closure

The Indaver Incinerator in Duleek is expected to resume operations later today, having been told earlier this week to cease operation by the Environmental Protection Agency.

The EPA was investigating an incident which occurred on Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning, when the plume from the emission stack had a pink hue.

According to the EPA, an initial assessment of emission monitoring data indicated that all continuous emissions monitoring results (i.e. carbon monoxide, total dust, hydrogen chloride, mitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxides and total organic carbon) were in compliance with the licence conditions.

A spokesperson for Indaver said; 'Our investigation indicates that the hue was caused by a small amount of iodine from incoming municipal waste.'
They had informed the EPA and submitted the conclusions of their investigation to them yesterday.
'Our own investigations and an independent assessment of the plume conclude that there was no risk to the environment or to human health. After an initial assessment of the emissions, the EPA notes that we are in compliance with the license conditions”.

The company informed the members of the Indaver Community Liaison Committee, which is made up of members of the local community, elected representatives, and members of Meath County Council, of the situation.
Iodine is commonly used as an agricultural disinfectant for livestock and their living environments and for hydroponics and nurseries. It is found in common household products such as TCP.