| Description |
1 online resource (iii, 53 p.) : col. ill. |
| System Details |
Mode of access via the Government Accountability Offfice web site. |
| Note |
Title from PDF title page (GAO, viewed Oct. 25, 2010). |
|
"October 2010." |
| Summary |
From the start of military operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, the U.S. military and its contractors have burned solid waste in open burn pits on or near military bases. According to the Department of Defense (DOD), burn pit emissions can potentially harm human health. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) guidance directs the military's use of burn pits, and the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) provides healthcare and other benefits to veterans and their families. GAO was asked to report on the (1) extent of open pit burning in Afghanistan and Iraq, and whether the military has followed its guidance; (2) alternatives to burn pits, and whether the military has examined them; and (3) extent of efforts to monitor air quality and potential health impacts. |
| Bibliography |
Includes bibliographical references. |
| Contents |
Background -- The military has relied heavily on open pit burning at installations in Afghanistan and Iraq, but burn pit operators have not always followed relevant guidance -- Alternatives to open pit burning include source reduction, recycling, incinerators, and landfills, but DOD has not evaluated their benefits or costs -- Neither U.S. forces in Afghanistan nor Iraq have monitored burn pit pollutants as directed, and the health impacts of burn pit exposure on individuals are not well understood -- Conclusions. |
| Note |
"GAO-11-63." |
| Subject |
United States. Department of Defense -- Rules and practice.
|
|
Refuse and refuse disposal.
|
|
Refuse and refuse disposal -- Environmental aspects.
|
| Added Title |
Afghanistan and Iraq : Department of Defense should improve adherence to its guidance on open pit burning and solid waste management |
|
DOD should improve adherence to its guidance on open pit burning and solid waste management |
| Gpo Item No. |
0546-D (online) |
| Sudoc No. |
GA 1.13:GAO-11-63 |
|
