Records Request Story proposal(s)

1) Spokane is home to one of only a handful of waste management facilities in the nation that converts waste into energy. This facility works on a fairly simple principle; waste is collected, then burned and the exhaust gasses are used to produce steam which is used to create electricity. However, the processes used to achieve energy from waste are actually quite complex and strictly regulated. The facility itself has been around for nearly 20 years and can incinerate nearly 800,000 tons of waste at over 2,500 degrees farenhieght a day. At capacity the plant can produce 26 Megawatts of energy. enough to power anywhere from 13,000 to 20,000 homes. This article would focus the environmental impacts of such a facility in comparison to its costs. Additionally, comparisons would be drawn between waste-to-energy facilities and traditional landfills and other waste management operations.


2) Currently, the US economy is at the forefront of nearly everyone’s concerns. Perhaps the second biggest issue is the environment. Both issues have been overlooked in the past and have since continued to affect our environment more so every day. The ramifications of a lack of proactive ideas and policies have created a unique situation. Environmentally friendly policies and practices continue to emerge, but many are often expensive and complex. The economy has taken a nosedive and as a result, pennies are being pinched and programs and jobs are being cut. This article would further examine the affects of a slowed economy versus increased concern for the environment. Substantiating aspects could be found with budget cuts from Olympia on environmental programs or cuts being made here at WSU. - I feel this is an interesting topic though I don’t have a clearly defined angle to take. Any suggestions would be appreciated.