INTEGRATED POLLUTION CONTROL LICENSING AT AUGHINISH ALUMNA - IRELAND

The European Union are preparing legislation to introduce the Integrated Pollution Prevention Control directive into its member states. in Ireland and in the UK, legislation is already in place. Aughinish Alumina in Ireland has now applied for an Integrated Pollution Control licence (IPCL) from the Environmental Protection Agency. This is a major data presentation exercise open to public examination. The Irish licensing system is a truly integrated one covering all aspects of emissions to air, water, solid waste, noise and waste minimisation. The licence will also require the submission of a comprehensive and formal environmental management system, including continuous improvement plans. A 5 Year Waste Minimisation Plan and an Environmental Performance Report must also be submitted annually to the EPA. This paper discusses the issues involved in applying for a IPCL.