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Squeaky clean
What is IPPC?
IPPC stands for Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control. The aim of the IPPC is to minimise pollution from various point sources. All installations falling under Annex I of the Directive will be required to obtain an authorisation (permit) from MEPA. Installations will need a permit, if they are allowed to operate.
As Integrated pollution prevention is a Multi Disciplinary task, a Committee to deal with the regulatory aspect of the Regulations was set up.
How will Maltese companies be affected?
Maltese Companies will have to submit a description of their activities in their application for the permit. They will also have to monitor for noise and vibrations, energy efficiency, and site protection against pollution. Companies will need to apply the general principle of energy conservation in their operations. Finally, the companies need to return the site to a satisfactory site after operations cease.
Why is this necessary?
Current production and consumption patterns are certainly not sustainable. It is true that over the last decades tremendous improvements have been achieved in industry regarding several major polluting substances, and that gradually the environmental impact has shifted towards so-called diffuse sources of pollution (such as traffic and household consumption of chemicals). Nevertheless, industrial production processes still account for a considerable share of the overall pollution (for pollutants such as greenhouse gases, acidifying substances, volatile organic compounds and waste), and it is very important to further reduce their contribution to "unsustainability".
For more information log on to: www.mepa.org.mt/environment/index.htm?IPPC/mainframe.htm&1