The Echo in Basildon has launched a campaign against Essex County Council's plans to build a waste complex in the town.
The anaerobic digester and recycling plant would take in 700,000 tonnes of rubbish each year and see 400 lorries driving in and out of the site each day.
Don't Dump on Basildon has gained the support of 4,000 people and cross-party political support, as well as the backing of wildlife groups because the area is deemed a haven for plants and animals.
Over the years Basildon has taken waste at Pitsea tip from London and Essex and many residents fear that a new site at Courtauld Road would lead to traffic congestion, bad smells and the risk of an explosion.
Editor Martin McNeill said: "We feel that Basildon has been dumped on over the years. "For many years it has taken waste from London and parts of Essex and it is time someone else did their fair share. This is exactly the sort of community campaign local newspapers should be doing."
The Echo has launched a reader poll and has an online petition for those wanting to show their support for the campaign.
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