 |
|
|
|
 |
|
In the vast majority of cases, the requirements of the environmental permits regulating operations at Stora Enso's units were fulfilled by comfortable margins. As well as resolving any formal infractions, Stora Enso units register any complaints, and initiate appropriate measures to resolve any problems. Complaints received during 2002 most commonly concerned noise and odour problems.
 Air emissions
Noise
Effluents
Waste management
Air emissions
Niagara Mill received a Notice of Violation from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) alleging that the mill had failed to implement certain monitoring and reporting provisions of the air operating permit. The mill had itself disclosed these deficiencies, which have since been corrected.
The Niagara Mill also received a Notice of Violation and a Finding of Violation from the federal Environmental Protection Agency, alleging that the mill had failed to obtain the required air permits for boiler and paper machine projects designed to raise the mill's production capacity. The mill is currently co-operating with the authorities to resolve this issue.
The federal Environmental Protection Agency also alleges that violations of the Clean Air Act occurred at the Wisconsin Rapids Pulp Mill related to projects begun between 1983 and 1991. Discussions with the authorities are continuing.
A particulate matter compliance test conducted on a smelt dissolving tank vent at Wisconsin Rapids Pulp Mill revealed emissions over the applicable limit. Corrective actions will be implemented to achieve compliance.
Emissions of malodorous gases from Imatra Mills increased unexpectedly, exceeding the capacity of the malodorous gas treatment process. The mill received complaints from neighbours, and corrective actions were planned in co-operation with the authorities. New malodorous gas treatment equipment has now been installed.
Noise
Construction work at Langerbrugge Mill has been the subject of complaints with regard to noise during the piling of foundations. Wherever technically feasible, piles have been screwed rather than hammered. There were also complaints about traffic restrictions when a public road near the mill had to be closed temporarily during installation work. Stora Enso has organised negotiations with the authorities and meetings with local residents to discuss these issues.
Effluents
Skoghall Mill accidentally discharged black liquor into Lake Vänern twice during the autumn. The black liquor was diluted to low concentrations in mill effluent before it entered the lake. It is unlikely that any damage has been done in the lake, but a thorough investigation is being carried out. Corrective measures have been taken, including surveys of the two incidents, reviews of procedures with personnel, the installation of improved measuring equipment and the establishment of improved alarm procedures.
Waste water emission limits were exceeded at Heinola Mill, where filamentous bacteria growth in the activated sludge basin has caused problems. Several corrective actions were attempted at the waste water treatment plant, but these measures did not eliminate the bacterial growth. Consequently, the mill has invested in a new tertiary flotation plant that will eliminate the filamentous bacteria from discharged water to ensure compliance with limits.
Waste management
A public complaint was filed regarding the operation of Niagara Mill's biosolids agricultural land-spreading program. The agreed settlement of this complaint includes the payment of a financial penalty to the Michigan state authorities, and the initiation of a special home well monitoring programme.
|
|
|
|
 |
