Jinkanpo Atsugi Incinerator

Enviro-Tech Incinerator Fumigates NAF Atsugi Military Housing

Jinkanpo Atsugi Incinerator was a waste incineration facility located in Atsugi, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. The incinerator became a subject of controversy due to concerns over environmental pollution and health risks to nearby residents, including personnel stationed at the Naval Air Facility Atsugi.

History

The Jinkanpo Atsugi Incinerator was constructed in the late 1980s and began operations shortly thereafter. It was designed to handle various types of waste, including industrial and municipal waste. The facility was situated near the Naval Air Facility Atsugi, which raised concerns among the U.S. military personnel and their families living in the area.

Environmental Concerns

The incinerator was criticized for emitting harmful pollutants, including dioxins, furans, and other toxic substances. These emissions were believed to pose significant health risks to the local population and the environment. Studies conducted in the late 1990s and early 2000s indicated elevated levels of these pollutants in the vicinity of the incinerator.

Health Impact

Residents and military personnel reported various health issues, which they attributed to the incinerator's emissions. These included respiratory problems, skin conditions, and other ailments. The U.S. Navy conducted several health assessments and environmental studies to determine the extent of the impact on its personnel.

Closure

Due to mounting pressure from both local residents and the U.S. military, the Jinkanpo Atsugi Incinerator was eventually shut down in the early 2000s. The closure was part of a broader effort to address environmental and health concerns associated with the facility.

Aftermath

Following the closure, efforts were made to remediate the site and monitor the long-term environmental impact. The case of the Jinkanpo Atsugi Incinerator has been cited in discussions about the regulation of waste incineration facilities and the importance of environmental health monitoring.

See Also

• Naval Air Facility Atsugi
• Dioxins
• Environmental health
• Waste management in Japan