Is incineration a better method of disposal of plastic waste?
Polyethylene, like all plastics, is actually a very refined form of oil. It therefore has a very high calorific value. However, in practical terms efficient disposal by incineration is difficult. Given the problems associated with emissions, the need to move waste plastics sometimes over long distances to incinerators and the negative public attitude towards building new incinerators, insufficient capacity is available – or likely to be available for the foreseeable future – in most countries and parts of the world.