Alternatives to incineration, Health and chemicals

A toxic legacy: Bottom ash in Europe’s circular economy

Our latest report, “A toxic legacy: Bottom ash in Europe’s circular economy”, exposes the environmental and health risks linked to the growing use of incinerator bottom ash (IBA) in construction materials across Europe. The report finds that IBA contains hazardous substances, including heavy metals, PFAS (“forever chemicals”), persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and microplastics, which can leach into soil and water over time. It warns that promoting IBA as a “circular” material risks spreading pollution, locking Europe into waste incineration, and undermining the transition to a truly non-toxic circular economy.

Drawing on evidence from across Europe, the report calls for stronger EU rules, precautionary approaches, and policies that prioritise waste prevention and safe material management.