And, the Environmental Services Association (ESA) has welcomed the fact that the government is seeking input from the industry, as the BAT could have a bearing on “a number of waste management operations” in the future.
Launched last week (26 January) in partnership with the other devolved administrations, the consultation covers facilities such as paper production and waste incineration. It will run until 18 April.
Defra says this will “safeguard and build on the high levels of environmental protection in the UK”.
BAT are designed to prevent or minimise emissions and impacts on the environment as a whole. These can include using new technology to limit polluting emissions, or improving the way that new installations for medium and heavy industries are designed, built and operated.
Previously, this was covered under EU legislation, but Defra says “the UK will be able to consider the best approach for our own needs, taking into account UK data as well as reviewing international developments”.
‘Early stage’
Head of regulation at the ESA Sam Corp told letsrecycle.com that the BAT for emissions are in the early stages.
“We welcome the fact that government is seeking input from industry on the design of this important process”
“The joint UK government and devolved administrations’ consultation for the development of ‘Best Available Techniques’ for managing emissions will have a bearing on a number of waste management operations, including energy recovery, in the future,” he said. “At this early stage, government is consulting on how the Best Available Techniques should be established and we welcome the fact that government is seeking input from industry on the design of this important process.”
‘Further’
Environment minister Rebecca Pow said: “Outside the EU we can go further in developing a tailored UK regime for better protecting the environment and public health from industrial pollution.
“This consultation delivers on our commitment to agree a common approach for developing BAT across the whole UK, ensuring that we are at the forefront of reducing industrial pollution.
“A more transparent and collaborative BAT regime is crucial for maintaining our high environmental standards, working closely with industry partners. I encourage all those with an interest to take part in this consultation.”
Air quality is a devolved policy area and, following the UK’s exit from the European Union, the power for defining BAT conclusions is transferred to each government independently.
Different countries in the UK may set different BAT. For instance, Scottish Government has committed to maintaining alignment with EU standards where possible. Defra says a common approach to the development of BAT within the UK will be taken.
Useful links
The consultation document can be read here.
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