Staterra helps Inma Steel clear environmental hurdles
Expanding industrial operations in Saudi Arabia presents a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to navigating the nation’s stringent environmental regulations.
For Inma Steel Fabrication Co. Ltd., a leading steel fabricator in Jubail Industrial City, the journey to expand its facilities was paved with complex regulatory requirements and potential environmental impacts.
However, Inma Steel successfully achieved its expansion goals while upholding rigorous environmental standards, thanks to the expertise of Staterra, a trusted environmental consulting firm.
Overcoming regulatory complexities
Saudi Arabia’s environmental regulatory framework is multifaceted, with oversight from both the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu (RCJY) and the National Center for Environmental Compliance (NCEC).
Staterra’s in-depth knowledge of the regulatory landscape was pivotal in guiding Inma Steel through this intricate process. We ensured compliance with the comprehensive Royal Commission Environmental Regulations (RCER-2015), which encompass air quality, water management, waste handling, and hazardous materials management.
Additionally, our team helped Inma Steel align with NCEC standards and leverage relevant international guidelines. This included addressing the potential implications of international conventions and agreements such as the Kyoto Protocol and the Convention on Biological Diversity.
Data-driven baseline assessments
Staterra conducted rigorous baseline assessments to characterise the existing environmental conditions at the project site. This involved:
- Air quality monitoring: five years of continuous air quality data from a nearby monitoring station revealed the presence of pollutants such as SO2, NOx, and particulate matter, primarily attributed to industrial emissions in the Jubail area.
- Soil and groundwater analysis: extensive soil and groundwater sampling identified pre-existing contamination with nitrates, organic carbon, ammonia, and heavy metals. This data was crucial for understanding potential risks and designing appropriate mitigation measures.
- Noise level surveys: baseline noise monitoring revealed that existing noise levels at the project boundary were within regulatory limits, providing a benchmark for assessing potential noise impacts during construction and operation.
Tailored mitigation strategies
We also developed a comprehensive set of mitigation measures tailored to the specific environmental conditions and project activities. These strategies included:
- Air quality management: implementing Best Available Techniques (BAT) for emission control, including the use of high-efficiency filters and dust suppression systems.
- Spill prevention and control: designing concrete containment areas for hazardous materials storage, along with emergency response plans and spill kits.
- Noise reduction: utilising noise barriers, enclosures, and low-noise equipment to minimise noise pollution during construction and operation.
- Waste management: implementing a waste hierarchy that prioritises waste reduction, reuse, and recycling, with proper disposal of hazardous waste in compliance with RCER-2015 guidelines.
Successful permitting and project execution
Staterra’s comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report, supported by robust data and expert analysis, was instrumental in Inma Steel obtaining the necessary Environmental Permit to Construct (EPC) from the RCJY. This achievement not only demonstrated Inma Steel’s commitment to environmental responsibility but also paved the way for the project’s successful implementation.
Inma Steel’s expansion project exemplifies how a strategic and data-driven approach to environmental assessment, coupled with expert guidance from consultants like Staterra, can lead to successful industrial growth in Saudi Arabia.
By proactively addressing environmental concerns and complying with stringent regulations, Inma Steel has set a benchmark for sustainable industrial development in the region.
Don’t let environmental regulations hold you back – contact Staterra and achieve your business goals while protecting the environment.