Objective 1
All industrial sites are to implement improvement plans based on BAT (best available techniques balancing the costs to the operator against the benefits to the environment) for all types of point sources to air and water from process operations.
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The aim of this objective is to establish a systematic approach to emission management at all sites, taking into account social and economic challenges.
Umicore witnessed a significant improvement of emissions to air and water over the past year. At the end of 2007, 42% of the sites had implemented a plan that fulfilled all the requirements of the objective to further control and manage their relevant emissions both to air and water, compared to 13% in 2006. Furthermore, 46% of the sites are in the process of developing and implementing such a plan (figure 6).
Improvement plans for air emissions have been implemented at 56% of the sites while 53% of the sites have an improvement plan in place for water emissions (figure 1).
It is important to note that all sites monitor their relevant emissions on a regular basis in order to ensure compliance with their permits and local regulations. The improvement plans include process optimization, a regular evaluation of best available technologies, regular sampling programmes and preventive maintenance programmes (e.g. of scrubber installations, filters and waste water treatment plants).
In 2007, additional information was collected with regard to diffuse source emissions. In total, 23 sites reported that diffuse sources are relevant: 14 of these sites already had a control programme in place. These programmes include elements such as regular cleaning and sprinkling of roads, improved ventilation of buildings and the coverage of bulk materials.
Five sites emitted more than 1 tonne of metal to air and three sites discharged more than 1 tonne of metal to water. In line with the Group objective, these sites have all set a numerical reduction target for the period 2006-2010. The aggregated 2010 target for metal to air emissions amounts to a reduction of 5 tonnes whereas the target for metal to water emissions equals 3 tonnes. These targets represent a reduction of 27% of metal emissions to air and 40% of metal emissions to water compared to the 2006 baseline measurement.
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Higher SO2 emissions at the site in Heusden-Zolder (Belgium) triggered the implementation of an action plan to better manage and control the process parameters. Key aspects, such as the regular refreshing of process water and pH were optimized in addition to increasing the scrubber capacity. This, along with a more detailed follow-up and maintenance programme of the entire installation has decreased SO2 emissions from about 12 tonnes during the first quarter to less than 0.5 tonnes in the fourth quarter. |
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In line with the requirements of the 3rd environmental Group objective, reinforced by the intention to relocate to Americana, the industrial unit of Guarulhos (Brazil) initiated a soil and groundwater assessment programme. The company, with the support of external consultants, is currently involved in exhaustive exploratory investigations to evaluate associated risks and actions needed to contain and remediate any potential contamination. |
Umicore on the way to sustainability