Comparison and Strategic Outlook of International Solid Recovered Fuel Standards

Abstract

Since the launch of the second phase of the Air Pollution Control Program in 2024 and the publication of the "Taiwan 2050 Net Zero Emissions Pathway and Strategy" in 2022, addressing air pollution and waste reduction has become imperative. Solid Recovered Fuel (SRF), made from high-caloric waste like plastics, paper, and wood, not only helps tackle the increasing waste volume and insufficient incinerator capacity but also substitutes traditional coal, reducing petrochemical fuel use and CO2 emissions. However, concerns persist about the safety of SRF, particularly the potential dioxin emissions from burning waste plastics, posing health risks. While existing studies primarily focus on measuring dioxin emissions post-combustion, they often overlook a thorough quantification of the associated health risks. This study enhances understanding by comparing regulations from Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, Germany, and the EU, analyzing standards and emission limits for dioxins and heavy metals. It finds that regulations need more stringent updates to address gaps in heavy metal content regulation effectively. Moreover, this research applies regulatory standards for carcinogens like dioxins, lead, cadmium, and arsenic to assess cancer risks through direct inhalation, establishing that current regulations offer basic protection for public health, alleviating excessive concerns. This contribution underscores the necessity for rigorous standards and provides a comprehensive assessment of SRF's impact on health, guiding future policy enhancements.

@article{kao2024comparison,
  title={Comparison and Strategic Outlook of International Solid Recovered Fuel Standards},
  author={Kao, Dennis and Chuang, Tzu-Hsien and Hsieh, I-Yun Lisa},
  journal={Journal of Taiwan Energy},
  volume={11},
  number={4},
  pages={283-304},
  year={2024},
  month=dec
}