Study on best available techniques (BAT) in German solvent using companies (printing, coating) as contribution to the revision of the BAT Reference Document on Surface Treatment Using Organic Solvents (STS BREF) (FKZ 3715 53 312 1)
Background
Since November 2015, the European Commission organizes an information exchange on best available techniques for surface treatment using organic solvents according to the Industrial Emissions Directive (2010/75/EU). The EU Directive and the information exchange aim at the establishment of a harmonized basis for industry permits. Information collected in 2016 serves as the basis for the revision of the BAT Reference Document on "Surface Treatment Using Organic Solvents", published in 2007 (printing, adhesive coating, coating of wood, metal, plastic and others).
BAT Reference Documents (BREFs) determine European-wide standards for integrated pollution prevention and control as well as sustainable production. They attract also worldwide attention. BREFs include "BAT Conclusions" as a result of the European information exchange. BAT conclusions comprise best available techniques (BAT) and emission levels achieved with these techniques. Latest four years after the publication of the conclusions, existing industrial installations need to comply with these European-wide harmonized levels. In this way, affected industries shall achieve a high level of environmental protection by the use of economically viable techniques.
The German Federal Environment Agency (UBA) is the National Focal Point for the discussion about best available techniques (BAT). In parallel to the information exchange of the European Commission, the UBA organizes a national expert group with representatives of the federal states. Additionally, the UBA coordinates regular meetings of an advisory group, consisting of experts from authorities, industry and research institutes.
Aim and expected results
In the project, Ökopol researches and documents information for the UBA regarding best available techniques in the printing industry (heatset web offset, flexography and rotogravure), varnishing (automotive, trailers, machinery and other metal and plastic parts) as well as other surface treatment (e.g. paper and textile coating). The main focus is on the description of techniques and related emission data.
After coordination with the UBA, Ökopol translates selected information for subsequent availability to the European Technical Working Group.
The aim of the project is a documentation of the high level of environmental standards achieved in Germany as a contribution to a high level of environmental protection in all EU Member States.
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