DOWN
TO ZERO BOAT TOUR
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| Twenty five Greenpeace activists today blocked both gates to the Sogama incinerator that is under construction in La Coruña, NW Spain. If finished the incinerator would be the largest in Spain and a new source of dioxin. |  |
Activists spent five hours blocking the gates of the plant preventing trucks loaded with domestic refuse destined for incineration at the plant from entering. After concluding the peaceful demonstration the activists were preparing to leave when the police arrived.
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They promptly arrested all involved with unnecessary force and they are now facing a long night in custody as unwilling guests of the Spanish police and charges in court tomorrow. |
"Dioxins are among the most toxic substances mankind has ever produced,” said Greenpeace Toxics Campaigner Pablo Mascarenas, "and incineration is the largest single air emission source identified. Yet, the incineration industry is still expanding in Europe and elsewhere in the world. This trend needs to be halted if European governments, including Spain, are serious about their commitment to eliminate dioxin."
Dioxins and furans are a group of very toxic and persistent substances. Dioxin is associated with health hazards ranging from reproductive problems to cancer, and other illnesses. Dioxins are on the priority list of chemicals whose elimination is mandated by the Oslo-Paris (OSPAR) Commission. Measures for the priority list of chemicals should be developed by 2003. In addition, dioxins are on the United Nations Environmental Program priority list for global elimination. "It is unacceptable that new dioxin sources are created, while the current dioxin levels already may pose subtle risks to human health", Mascarenas added. "Instead of granting new dioxin permits, the Spanish government should act responsibly and prepare a dioxin elimination plan, including alternatives for waste incineration".
This action in Spain concludes the current Down to Zero tour in Europe to remind governments to take steps to eliminate the release of hazardous substances into the environment as agreed to at the 1998 OSPAR conference.
