A 2019 study by the New School concluded that so-called “waste-to-energy” plants emit mercury, lead, particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, nitrous oxide, and carbon monoxide. Research indicates that Chester’s residents suffer from heart disease, asthma, and other chronic illnesses at levels far higher than the national average.
Good decision by borough council on waste
On March 8, Swarthmore Borough Council made a decision that could dramatically change the way our community handles its waste. Resolution 2021-04 requests Delaware County Council to ensure that the Delaware County Solid Waste Authority not extend its contract with the Covanta waste incinerator in Chester.
‘Let’s get going’
Last week’s Swarthmorean reported on the most recent Borough Council meeting, including the news that our Council unanimously passed a resolution called “Ready for 100.” It calls for our entire borough — municipal, institutional, business, and residential — to achieve 100% clean, renewable energy by the year 2050, with an intermediate goal of all electricity to be renewable by 2035. What will this mean for Swarthmore residents?