Understand
Portland campaigners join worldwide anti-incinerator action
Overview
Dozens of campaigners from the Stop Portland Incinerator Campaign (SPIC) demonstrated at Portland Port against Powerfuel Portland's planned waste-to-energy facility. The protest formed part of a global week of action co-ordinated by the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA). While campaigners raised concerns over pollution and health impacts, Powerfuel Portland defended the project as a safe and environmentally responsible facility that will manage Dorset's residual waste and create jobs.
Key points
- Dozens of protesters from the Stop Portland Incinerator Campaign demonstrated at the gates of Portland Port.
- The demonstration was part of a global week of action co-ordinated by the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA), involving campaigns from countries including Indonesia, Brazil, Zimbabwe and Canada.
- The Environment Agency recently granted a revised permit allowing Powerfuel Portland's incinerator to burn more categories of waste when it opens in 2030.
- Powerfuel Portland stated that the facility will be safe, environmentally responsible, create jobs, and generate energy for 30,000 homes.
- Planning permission for the incinerator was initially rejected by Dorset Council, approved by the government following an appeal in 2024, and a subsequent High Court challenge by campaigners was dismissed in 2025.