On July 16, 2025, the Miami‑Dade County Commission voted in favor of building a large-scale waste‑to‑energy incinerator, bypassing the former Doral plant site, which previously caught fire in 2023. This marks a key step in updating regional waste management infrastructure.
The new incinerator project, proposed by County Environmental Services, aims to handle up to 2,000 tons of waste daily, converting refuse into energy and reducing landfill dependency. Due to community backlash after the 2023 Doral fire, commissioners chose an alternate, yet-to-be-disclosed site .
Proponents argue that modern incinerators feature cutting-edge emission controls—scrubbers, filters, carbon dioxide capture systems—and are safer and more efficient than landfills, which produce methane and leachate.
Supporters say this reduces groundwater contamination and unpleasant odors. However, environmentalists worry about toxic air emissions like heavy metals and dioxins. The county has pledged transparency, with quarterly testing and open reports overseen by the Florida DEP.
Operational fees and energy credits from power generation are expected to mitigate costs. Projections suggest the facility could offset 20% of county power needs tied to waste treatment.
Commissioners backing the project cited sustainability and cost savings. Detractors continue to question site safety and local impact, pressing for robust environmental safeguards.
Next Steps & Timeline:
Site selection & permitting: next 6–12 months
Construction begins: early 2027
Operations begin: projected mid-2029
Public hearings and environmental reviews will happen over the next year. Community forums are planned once the site is chosen.
The vote shows Miami‑Dade's commitment to innovative environmental strategies, while balancing public safety and accountability. Success hinges on community trust and operational transparency.
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