The burning question of household waste in China

High-profile opposition

Location: Liulitun Village, Beijing

Timeline: In 2006, the government of Haidian district in Beijing announced a new incineration plant, construction of which was scheduled to begin in March 2007. The plan was opposed by local residents, which resulted in the Environmental Protection Bureau (now the Ministry of Environmental Protection) ordering the suspension of the project while public opinion was assessed.

In 2011, the district Party chief confirmed that no incineration plant would be built in Liulitun.

Result: Project canceled

Location: Panyu district, Guangzhou city, Guangdong province

Timeline: In 2009, the Guangzhou city government announced plans to build an incinerator in the district, but the project was mothballed after opposition from local residents.

In April 2011, the city government released five candidate locations for the project.

In May 2013, the city decided to locate the project in the Nansha district. Construction is expected to finish later this month.

Result: Plant relocated

Location: Yuhang district, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province

Timeline: In August 2012, the Hangzhou city government set up a leading group, including construction companies, to oversee plans for a new incineration facility.

In May 2014, local residents protested against the project.

In August 2014, the composition of the leading group changed and a well-respected construction company was admitted to help push forward the plan.

In April 2015, construction resumed, and is expected to be completed by May next year.

Result: Construction resumed