CLEARING THE AIR
Success stories
mining industry
The Problem: The client came to STATERRA seeking analysis and support in assessing the environmental and human impacts of their iodine and hydrogen fluoride emissions on nearby sensitive receptors. The Solution: For a totally comprehensive analysis of emissions impacts, and using data collected on-site as well as that provided by the client, we drew on innovative and specialised US EPA air dispersion modelling software AERMOD. Our experts in environmental modelling were then able to simulate the dispersion of these pollutants in the atmosphere, and anticipate their concentration and fate at the sensitive receptor locations. The Result: Our clients received a comprehensive Environmental and Health Impact Assessment Report with recommendations on mitigation measures. STATERRA is the regional hub for environmental modelling, and its use here allowed us to present our client with compelling data analysis that gave them the opportunity to go above local standards and beyond compliance.
Case
Studies
Saudi Arabia faces distinct environmental challenges, including air quality concerns, water scarcity, and soil degradation, exacerbated by industrial expansion and climate change.
The Kingdom has implemented stringent regulations and ambitious initiatives, such as the Saudi Green Initiative (SGI) and Vision 2030, to promote sustainability and reduce environmental impacts.
This case study demonstrates how advanced environmental modeling can help industries achieve compliance while contributing to national sustainability goals.
Overview
An industrial facility in Saudi Arabia faced potential non-compliance with air quality standards due to emissions of iodine and hydrogen fluoride.
These pollutants posed risks to sensitive receptors, including residential areas and schools.
The challenge was compounded by stringent regulatory requirements under the Royal Commission Environmental Regulations (RCER-2015) and oversight from the National Center for Environmental Compliance (NCEC).
Our Approach
1. Baseline Assessments:
Using local meteorological data and pollutant monitoring records, baseline assessments were conducted to characterise existing conditions. These assessments revealed elevated levels of PM2.5 and SO2 in the area due to industrial activities.
2. Dispersion Modeling:
The AERMOD software was employed to simulate pollutant dispersion under various scenarios, incorporating KSA-specific ambient air quality standards from RCER-2015. Sensitive receptors such as hospitals and schools were prioritised in the analysis.
3. Tailored Mitigation Strategies:
Recommendations were developed based on Best Available Techniques (BAT), including:
Installation of high-efficiency scrubbers for iodine and hydrogen fluoride emissions.
Optimisation of stack heights to improve dispersion.
Creation of green buffers using native vegetation aligned with SGI’s afforestation goals.
4. Stakeholder Engagement:
The project involved consultations with local communities and regulatory bodies like RCJY and NCEC to ensure transparency and alignment with national priorities.
Results
Compliance Achieved:
Post-mitigation modeling showed a 60% reduction in peak pollutant concentrations at sensitive receptors, ensuring compliance with RCER-2015 standards.
Sustainability Contributions:
The green buffer zones contributed directly to SGI’s afforestation target of planting 10 billion trees, rehabilitating degraded land in the vicinity of the facility.
Enhanced Monitoring:
A long-term monitoring plan was implemented that includes quarterly assessments using IoT-enabled real-time sensors at key receptor locations. Data collected is shared with stakeholders, including regulatory authorities, to ensure adaptive management strategies are employed when deviations occur from compliance thresholds. This approach ensures sustained compliance with RCER-2015 standards while providing actionable insights for continuous improvement.
Alignment with Saudi Green Initiative
This project supports SGI’s overarching targets:
Emissions Reduction: mitigation measures contributed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with KSA’s net-zero strategy by 2060.
Afforestation: green buffers added to SGI’s afforestation efforts, which aim to restore 40 million hectares of land.
Land Protection: the project safeguarded sensitive receptors while promoting biodiversity through native vegetation planting.
