Hidden Emissions: A story from the Netherlands

This case study examines persistent emissions of dioxins and other unintentional POPs (UPOPs) from the REC waste incinerator in Harlingen, Netherlands. 

The study finds that short-term sampling drastically underestimates actual emissions – by factors over 1,000 – and that bypass mechanisms release unfiltered flue gases during transient operations. Multiple UPOPs, including dl-PCBs, PBDEs and PFOA, were detected, indicating incomplete combustion and poor post-combustion control.

The case highlights regulatory gaps that exclude non-steady-state emissions and a lack of enforcement despite recurring violations. These issues pose serious risks to public health and underscore the need for more robust monitoring and regulatory oversight.