Environmental management systems in waste incineration plants

Abstract

This Thesis has been devoted to the study of the Environmental Management Systems in Danish waste incineration plants. It is made with the cooperation of one waste incineration plant (Nordforbrænding). Besides it, collaboration of other three plants supports the research (Amagerforbrænding, Roskilde Forbrænding and Vestforbrænding). Two different analyses have been developed. On one side, analysis of Environmental Management Systems (EMS) in the three incineration plants mentioned which have an EMS implemented, and on the other, an analysis of one waste incineration plant which has not any EMS (Nordforbrænding). First of all, conclusions and findings obtained among literature are discussed in order to establish a framework and evaluate which are the remarkable aspects to consider concerning Environmental Management Systems. The first analysis is focused on the implementation of EMS in three different plants. It includes the analysis of the organizational aspects: organization strategy, departments, communication, organizational solutions, routines, etc. In addition, focus areas of EMS and identification of main aspects are included. These three plants are compared and contrasted in order to find out which are the differences and similarities. Later, experiences and knowledge obtained are used by Nordforbrænding. Secondly, an evaluation and assessment of the present situation of Nordforbrænding is developed. Main environmental aspects and organizational structures are identified by carrying out an Initial Environmental Review. A method for ranking and scoring the environmental aspects is elaborated. Finally, transference of knowledge is made from the three plants to Nordforbrænding. Experiences and organizational matters are adapted to Nordforbrænding and some alternatives are proposed in order to conclude how EMS could be implemented in Norforbrænding. Besides it, a Spanish comparison is made to obtain an example of another country.