THE issue of recycling versus incineration, to manage New Jersey's solid-waste crisis, is the focus of great controversy.

Consumers are becoming increasingly aware that they are major players in the solid-waste crisis.

The fact of the matter is that the Department of Environmental Protection hasn't chosen or recommended anything jjthat would help solve the solid-waste crisis.

Most communities in the state are in a solid-waste crisis, paying increasing amounts to get rid of their garbage.

For as it drew headlines in newspapers everywhere, the barge also became a symbol for an emerging national solid-waste crisis.

In testimony before a State Assembly committee this week, representatives of key local government associations estimated that dealing with the solid-waste crisis alone would cost local taxpayers billions.

As early as the 1970's, county officials, divining the solid-waste crisis of the future, decided to build an incinerator that would burn garbage and create energy.

"Because disposable diapers are a symbol of the solid-waste crisis," Mr. Shiffert said.

"The area has been facing one solid-waste crisis after another," he said.

"I personally believe this is the most significant public-health risk they're going to encounter in dealing with the solid-waste crisis," Mr. Mrazek said.