Tartu hazardous waste incineration plant expands capacity tenfold
The Epler & Lorenz hazardous waste incineration plant in Tartu has been expanded to process up to 20,000 tons per year, addressing a national shortfall in disposal capacity.
A new hazardous waste incineration facility operated by Epler & Lorenz was officially opened in Tartu on Thursday, capable of processing up to 15% of Estonia's hazardous waste. The plant's capacity has been increased tenfold from 2,000 tons to 15,000–20,000 tons per year.
Infrastructure Minister Kuldar Leis noted at the opening that exporting hazardous waste abroad is technically complex and costly, making domestic disposal more economical. Six years ago, waste was also accepted at Kunda Nordic Cement, but that option was lost when clinker production ceased, leaving the Tartu plant's 2,000-ton capacity insufficient.
The company's manager, Jaanis Lorenz, said the facility receives used oils and paints, contaminated packaging, medical waste, and other non-recyclable materials. He added that while the share of hazardous waste is likely to decrease, medical waste will remain a challenge.
Construction was delayed by nearly a year and a half because the Environmental Board required an additional environmental impact assessment. Reet Siilaberg, head of the circular economy department at the board, explained that the main impact is air pollutant emissions, so the permit mandates best available technology and strict monitoring. According to Lorenz, the plant operates at less than 50% of permitted limits.
The plant generates its own electricity and supplies residual heat to Tartu's district heating network. Tartu Deputy Mayor Kertu Vuks emphasized that such a facility is essential for southern Estonia, where many companies and medical institutions produce hazardous waste.
Estonia generates about 380,000 tons of hazardous waste annually, of which around 100,000 tons should ideally be incinerated for safety. The expansion cost nearly €25 million.
