Miami-Dade County Abandons Plan for New Waste-to-Energy Incinerator

MIAMI — After nearly two years of intense debate and public protests, Miami-Dade County has officially scrapped plans to build a new waste-to-energy incinerator. In an internal memo obtained by CBS News Miami, County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava confirmed the decision, recommending instead that the county focus on long-hauling waste while exploring the possibility of constructing a landfill outside county limits.

“After careful consideration and much analysis, I am recommending that we continue to long haul waste via truck and rail using our contracted capacity,” Cava stated in the memo. She emphasized that any waste management solution should avoid placing an “undue burden” on ratepayers.

The decision comes in the wake of the destruction of the Doral incinerator in a February 2023 fire, which highlighted the urgency of resolving the county’s waste management challenges. However, Cava acknowledged the complexities involved, noting that there is no “easy solution” to the problem.

As the county commissioners work with stakeholders to determine long-term waste management strategies, the move to abandon the incinerator plan marks a significant shift in approach, balancing environmental concerns and financial considerations for the community.