The EPA developed this guidance document applies to soil recovery facilities which exceed the operational thresholds for waste facility permits.  Facilities that exceed these thresholds are required to operate under a Waste Licence granted by the Environmental Protection Agency (the Agency). Licensed soil recovery facilities are typically worked-out quarries that are in the process of...

The first-ever Europe-wide plastics strategy, adopted today, is a part of the transition towards a more circular economy. It will protect the environment from plastic pollution whilst fostering growth and innovation, turning a challenge into a positive agenda for the Future of Europe. There is a strong business case for transforming the way products are designed, produced,...

Environmental management has a raft of legislation associated with it covering air emissions water, waste water, integrated pollution control now known as industrial emissions. Environmental management has significant implications for business in terms of legal compliance, cost and technical measures to be implemented. How you address environmental management can have a significant bearing on your business and profitability. There are...

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is the measurement of the anticipated effects of a proposed project or development on the environment. The purpose of the EIA process is to ensure that: All projects that are likely to have a significant impact on the environment are assessed.  People are fully aware of the likely effects of the...

Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) is a technique used to quantify the potential environmental impacts associated with a product or service throughout its life cycle.   Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) and Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are tools which enable transparent communication to stakeholders.  LCA and EPD present comparable information about the environmental impact of of products and...

An Appropriate Assessment involves a case by case examination of the implications of a development or activity for a Natura 2000 site and its conservation objectives. The EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) placed an obligation on Member States of the EU to establish the Natura 2000 Network.  The Natura 2000 Network is a network of important...

The Article 11 process is the mechanism which can be used where there is uncertainty as to which type of waste authorisation may required  – i.e. waste licence, waste facility permit, certificate of registration or none of these. Clarification can be sought from the Environmental Protection Agency to determine the question for you in advance...

Congratulations to Sorcha Taylor, based in ECOS Limerick office, who has been selected to become a Climate Ambassador, one of Irelands first and the first for Limerick and the Mid-West Region.

The Local Authority Waters & Communities Office has been set up to raise public awareness and encourage local communities, public bodies and all stakeholders to work together in the management of our natural waters. The office has a staff complement of 3 regional coordinators, 3 support officers based in Clonmel and 12 Community Water Officers...

The Farm Hazardous Waste Collection Campaign was established to provide farmers with an accessible location in which they can safely dispose of hazardous waste. The scheme is led by the EPA in collaboration with Teagasc, the Department for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment (DCCAE), and local authorities.  Whilst...