A useful update for any waste treatment operators
SEPA have been issuing Further Information Notices to waste treatment operators to carry out a gap analysis of their activities using a specific spreadsheet (bref_wt_template_final.xlsx (live.com), comparing site activities against each relevant BAT conclusion (BATc) and identifying where operators are already meeting the standard, where this either is not being met at the moment, or will not be able to be met.
This includes:
- Existing permitted plants
- New/ recently permitted plants (permit from 10/08/22)
Details of guidance from SEPA can be found here , and information regarding deadlines can be found here.
What is the deadline?
The deadline for operators to complete and submit the gap analysis to SEPA is the 4th of December 2022.
What happens once Gap Analysis is submitted to SEPA?
Once gap analysis submitted are assessed by SEPA, one of these three potential outcomes will follow:
- There is no change needed to the permit;
- The permit is varied to ensure it complies with the regulations and reflects BAT – this will be a SEPA initiated variation and will be free of charge. Sites will have a right to appeal; OR
- Enforcement action will be taken where the permit holder cannot comply with the permit or BAT
Consultancy Support – How Albion can help?
Albion’s permitting team can help you to complete the BATc gap analysis spreadsheet. For this we would review the relevant BAT guidance, depending on your site’s activities, and cross check the BATc against your site’s most up to date documentation and operations. We can help you to identify where you meet the standards and where they are not yet met, we can provide you with support to work though the necessary steps to achieve the standards required.
Full details of the BATc and how Albion can complete this for you can be found on our Site Licence and Permit Applications Page.
If you have any questions and wish to discuss with the team please contact us by emailing alasdair@albion-environmental.co.uk