With many landfill sites currently running out of space, China has embarked on a vast program to build refuse incinerators, despite ongoing public concerns over toxic emissions.

This community in Beijing's famous suburban resort of Xiao-tang-shan is facing a possible environmental threat...a planned garbage incinerator.

Local residents oppose its construction, fearing dangerous airborne pollution.

A resident said, "There will be different kinds of toxic gases emitted, especially dioxins. The amounts may not be large, but these things are very toxic."

The concerns are understandable. The image of a garbage incinerator usually goes hand in hand with dark smoke, heavy pollution, and unpleasant odors.

Toxins are thought to damage people's nervous system, and can cause cancers.

Local residents have staged a sit-in demonstration, and launched an Internet campaign to oppose the plans.

Another resident said, "Why not use recycling as a way to deal with trash, and limit the environmental impact? Why burn it? The consequences of this can be devastating. We want to fight for our rights and protect the environment."

According to the Beijing municipal government, incineration is currently the best way forward. They say the city's traditional landfills will run out of space within five years, and that burning waste makes dramatic and environmental savings on capacity.

The authorities are pledging advanced technology will be utilized to ensure the incinerators operate cleanly.

Wei Yueming, Beijing Environmental Official, said, "We are setting the emission standards to match those of Europe. Advanced facilities such as dust catchers will be used to clean dioxins and dust. This means environmental safety."

Despite government promises, local residents still worry about whether emissions can be effectively controlled. They are calling for full transparency, asking that emissions data be made public - to make sure the authorities stick to their word.

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