Environmental Impact Statement Proposed Biodiesel Plant ...Proposed Biodiesel Plant July 2007 Marshmeadows New Ross, Co. Wexford Environmental Impact Statement Malone O'Regan Page

Proposed Biodiesel PlantProposed Biodiesel Plant

Marshmeadows Marshmeadows

New Ross,New Ross,

Co. WexfordCo. Wexford

MALONE O’REGANENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES LTD

2B Richview Office Park

ClonskeaghDublin 14

Environmental Impact StatementEnvironmental Impact Statement

July 2007July 2007

Volume I

For in

spec

tion p

urpo

ses o

nly.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53

Form ES - 04 2B Richview Office Park

Clonskeagh, Dublin 14Tel: +353- 1- 260 26 55 Fax: +353- 1- 260 26 60

Email: [email protected]

Title: Environmental Impact Statement, Proposed Bi odiesel Plant, Marshmeadows, New Ross.

Job Number: E0477

Prepared By: Siobhan Maher

Signed:

Checked By: Siobhan Maher

Signed:

Approved By: Siobhan Maher

Signed:

Revision Record

Issue No.

Date Description Remark Prepared Checked Approved

1 11.07.07 Document FINAL SM SM SM

ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES LTD

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53

Proposed Biodiesel Plant Jul y 2007 Marshmeadows New Ross, Co. Wexford Environmental Impact Statement

Malone O’Regan Contents

Proposed Biodiesel Plant Marshmeadows, New Ross

Co. Wexford

Environmental Impact Statement

July 2007

Contents

Non Technical Summary

Section One - General

1.0 Introduction 1.1 The Applicant 1.2 Site Location, Area and Description of Existing Uses

1.3 Surrounding Land and River Activities 1.4 Existing Site Services 1.5 Legislative Requirements for an Environmental Impact Statement

1.6 Structure of the Environmental Impact Statement 1.7 Methodology 1.8 Consultation

1.9 Project Team 1.10 Abbreviations

Section Two – The Planning Context and Need for the Development

2.0 Planning Context 2.1 Need for Development

Section Three – Description of the Proposed Development

3.0 Introduction 3.1 Description of Raw Materials, Product and Key Elements of the Proposed

Process 3.1.1 Biodiesel Characteristics 3.1.2 Description of Chemical Process 3.1.3 Technical Description 3.1.4 Input Raw Materials

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53



3.1.5 Output Materials 3.1.6 Plant Operating Capacity 3.1.7 Mass Balance

3.2 Description of Proposed Plant and Infrastructure 3.2.1 Main Process and Utility Building 3.2.2 Bulk Chemical Storage

3.2.3 Services 3.2.4 Employment, Operating Hours and Anticipated Traffic 3.2.5 Landscaping

3.3 Technical Standards and General Safety and Environmental Considerations 3.4 Wastes and Emissions – Operational Phase, Abatement Summary 3.4.1 Process Waste

3.4.2 Emissions to Atmosphere 3.4.3 Waste Water 3.4.4 Noise

3.4.5 Odour 3.5 Site Development Works and Construction Phase 3.5.1 Programme

3.5.2 Construction Procedures 3.5.3 Construction Traffic, Hours of Operation etc. 3.6 Wastes and Emissions – Site Development and Construction Phase

3.6.1 Solid Waste 3.6.2 Emissions to Atmosphere 3.6.3 Noise 3.6.4 Waste Water

Section Four – Alternatives Addressed

4.1 Introduction

4.2 “Do Nothing” Alternative 4.3 Alternative Sites 4.3.1 Alternative Location

4.3.2 Alternative Sites at Marshmeadows 4.4 Alternative Uses of the Site 4.5 Alternatives Considered for Cooling the Process

4.6 Longterm Waste Water Treatment Options 4.7 Shortterm Waste Water Treatment Options 4.8 Alternative Biodiesel Production Technologies and Processes Considered

Section Five – Impacts on the Environment

5.1 Human Beings 5.2 Flora and Fauna and Fisheries

5.3 Soils, Sediment and Geology 5.4 Surface Water Quality 5.5 Hydrogeology

5.6 Air Quality and Odour 5.7 Climate 5.8 Noise and Vibration

5.9 Landscape and Visual 5.10 Cultural Heritage

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53



5.11 Material Assets 5.11.1 Traffic 5.11.2 Waste Infrastructure

5.11.3 Water Supply and Wastewater Infrastructure

List of Tables

Table 3.1 Inputs of Raw Materials per Annum Table 3.2 Environmental Impacts associated with Raw Materials Table 3.3 Output Products from Production Process Table 3.4 Environmental Impacts of End Products

Table 3.5 Storage of Raw Materials, Finished Products and Ancillary Materials on Site

Table 3.6 Process Monitoring and Control Equipment Likely to be Used

Table 3.7 Biodiesel Production Process Wastewater Quality Characteristics Table 3.8 Wastewater Characteristics from the Production Wastewater combined

with Weekly Cleaning

Table 5.1.1 Population Levels within Relevant Areas Table 5.1.2 Persons Classified by Age Group, New Ross, Co. Wexford, 2006 Table 5.1.3 Total Persons aged 15 years and over – Classified by Socio-economic

group – County Wexford Table 5.4.1 Comparison of the River Barrow Monitoring Results 2003 (at New Ross

Bridge) with the Guide Limits set for the Estuary within the 2005 EPA

report. Table 5.6.1 Air Quality Standards Regulations 2002 (SI 271 of 2002)Table 5.6.2 Estimated Lifecycle Emissions Study

Table 5.8.1 Description of the Noise Monitoring Locations Table 5.8.2 Results of Noise Monitoring Table 5.8.3 External Noise Sources

Table 5.8.4 Noise Spectrum Cooling Tower Table 5.8.5 Likely Noise Levels Arising from the Construction Phase Predicted at

the Nearest Noise Receptors

Table 5.8.6 Maximum Permissible Noise Levels at the Façade of Dwellings During Construction

Table 5.11.1 Truck Movements

List of Figures Figure 1 Regional Location Figure 2 Existing Site Layout

Figure 3 Proposed Site Layout Figure 4 Drainage System Figure 5 Internal Ground Floor Layout

Figure 6 Regional Bedrock Geology Figure 7 Noise Monitoring Locations

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53



List of Plates Plate 1 View of Site Facing South from Northern Boundary, 2005 Plate 2 View of Site from Road facing Northwest, 2005

Appendices Appendix A EPA Correspondence

Appendix A1 SRFB Correspondence Appendix A2 Correspondence Wexford County Council Appendix B MSDS Information

Appendix C Elevation Drawings Appendix D Flora and Fauna Report Appendix D1 Correspondence from Aquatic Specialist

Appendix D2 Second Correspondence from SRFB Appendix E Borehole Logs Appendix F Air Quality Report Appendix F1 Odour Assessment Appendix G Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Report Appendix H Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment Report

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53

Proposed Biodiesel PlantProposed Biodiesel Plant

Marshmeadows Marshmeadows

New Ross,New Ross,

Co. WexfordCo. Wexford

MALONE O’REGANENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES LTD

2B Richview Office Park

ClonskeaghDublin 14

Environmental Impact StatementEnvironmental Impact Statement

July 2007July 2007



For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53

Proposed Biodiesel Plant July 2007 Marshmeadows New Ross, Co. Wexford Environmental Impact Statement

Malone O'Regan Page i of xii

Non-Technical Summary

Introduction Green Biofuels Ireland Ltd. wishes to

construct and operate a biodiesel production plant (with capacity for 30,000 tonnes per annum) and a tallow

storage facility on a filled site comprising 0.87 ha at New Ross Port, Marshmeadows, Co. Wexford. The

proposed plant will convert, via a process known as trans-esterification, renewable, indigenous resources such

as rapeseed oil, tallow and used vegetable cooking oils to a high quality, biodegradable fuel (biodiesel) meeting

the EU quality standard EN14214 for use as a safe, cleaner and sustainable alternative to petroleum diesel.

This document comprises a Non Technical Summary to the

Environmental Impact Statement which will accompany the application to the EPA for an Integrated Pollution Control License with respect to the proposed

development.

Malone O' Regan (MOR) was retained by

Green Biofuels Ireland Ltd. to prepare the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) with respect to the proposed

biodiesel plant and tallow storage facility on a 0.87 ha site. The EIS addresses both the direct and indirect impacts

arising from both the construction and operational phases of the proposed development.

The Need for the Development

The proposed development contributes towards the achievement of some of the

main objectives of Ireland’s Energy Policy which include:

• Security of supply • Environmental protection

• Achievement of Ireland’s commitments under the Kyoto

Protocol. Subordinate and interacting objectives

flowing from these primary objectives include:

• Diversification away from fossil fuel;

• Discovery and economic development of indigenous supplies;

• Maintenance and strategic storage of liquid and gaseous

fuels; • Development and commercial

exploitation of renewable energy

sources (which are indigenous), and

• Research, development and

demonstration of more energy efficient end use technology and

less carbon intensive energy supplies including renewables.

Specifically it is envisaged that the proposed development will contribute towards the following:

• An alternative use for waste

vegetable oil. Traditionally waste

vegetable oil was re-used in animal feed; this is now banned.

• An alternative use for tallow;

compared to current usage as a fuel in static burners and in

animal feed. • Implementation of the Bio Fuels

Directive (2003/03/EC) which

calls for 2% of all transport fuels to be biofuels by 2005 and 5.75% by 2010.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53


Malone O'Regan Page ii of xii

• Creation of long term employment in the rural

economy. • Provision of sugar beet and

tillage farmers with a valuable break crop.

In summary the need for the development of biofuels, as stated by the Commissioner Andris Pielbalgs who is in charge of the EC’s energy office, is

as follows: “biofuels tackle climate change by avoiding emissions of greenhouse gases, they diversify Europe’s sources of energy and reduce dependence on oil imports and they offer new markets for European Agriculture.”

Planning Context Wexford County Council has prepared

individual area plans, under which the proposed development is covered by the New Ross Town and Environs

Development Plan, 2004. Within the Plan, the site is zoned for general industrial uses. Accordingly the

proposed plant falls within the zoning objectives set out in the Plan.

Alternatives Addressed As part of the initial planning stages for

the proposed development, a number of alternatives were evaluated for the proposed biodiesel plant. These

alternatives included other Irish port locations, alternative sites within Marshmeadows, other uses for the site chosen and alternative plant operations

taking account of environmental impacts.

“Do-Nothing” The “do-nothing” alternative consists of retaining the current port facilities at

Marshmeadows, without expansion through the development of the Biodiesel facility. The “do-nothing”

alternative will deny the town of New Ross the opportunity to gain at an early stage, from the development of a highly

technology based, environmentally sustainable business with significant potential for expansion.

Alternative Sites Finding the ideal location was seen as

essential when the project was first conceived.

To be competitive, especially in Ireland, the plant must have the option of good sea access for large vessels of bulk

finished products. A location close to or adjacent to a sizeable tank farm was also thought preferable to allow

flexibility with storage of differing feed stocks and products.

New Ross Port was considered to be the most desirable port location for the following reasons:

- Close ferry connections with the

UK and the EU for importing/exporting bulk

shipments if required; and its good logistical position central to sources of feed stocks from

within Ireland. - Good road access. - Substantial landbank and sites in

close proximity to the wharf are available.

- Suitably zoned and serviced

lands available. - Marshmeadows already handles

the import of bulk oil and

therefore has the correct facilities on the wharf.

- Complimentary existing

industries - both Esso and Campus Oils already operate

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53


Malone O'Regan Page iii of xii

substantial storage facilities at Marshmeadows thus avoiding visual impacts elsewhere.

- One of Ireland’s largest logistic transport companies operates from the site.

- No sensitive receptors in close proximity.

Two sites were considered at Marshmeadows; however the site chosen represented the best option for

a number of reasons including depth to bedrock and nature of soils and subsoils present on site.

Operational alternatives considered included;

• Alternative considerations for

cooling the process;

• Alternative wastewater treatment techniques, and

• Alternative biodiesel production technologies and processes.

Project Description Description of Chemicals and

Proposed Process Biodiesel is produced by converting

feedstock oils via a process generally known as transesterification. The plant at Marshmeadows will be used to

convert recycled cooking oils, rapeseed oil and tallow to biodiesel. The process is carried out at low temperature and

pressure and involves using water, methanol, sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid and potassium hydroxide as

auxiliary materials which are recycled within the process. The main process activities include esterification, catalyst

production, trans-esterification, washing and distillation. The process will be

facilitated by auxiliary activities such as steam generation, water deionisation, cooling and chilling, air compression,

laboratory testing and nitrogen generation.

Biodiesel will be the primary product with glycerine, fertiliser and bioheating oil (a lower grade biodiesel) also

produced as by-products with on-going value. Biodiesel is non-hazardous and non-explosive; it is insoluble in water,

has a high biodegradation rate and a comparatively low toxicity to marine plants and animals.

Proposed Development Description

The proposed development will consist of the following facilities;

Main Process and Utility Building The main building is spilt between the main process and utility areas and will

contain the following: Ground Floor:

- Reception; - Steam Boiler room; - Process area with process

vessels; - Workshop and spare parts; - Water deionisation unit;

- Logistics room; - Stores; - ESB Substation/Switch room,

and - Chemical (potassium

hydroxide(KOH)) storage.

Upper Floor (part of utility section only):

- Offices, toilets, changing rooms, electrical room, control room, board room and laboratories.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53


Malone O'Regan Page iv of xii

The main building will be approx. 13.5m high with a column/distillation tower

measuring approx. 19.5m in height from groundlevel. To avoid downwash building effects the process stack

(process pipe is more realistic term as diameter is only 160mm) will be a minimum of 3m above this. The boiler

stack will extend to 24m above ground level.

The process/utility building will be constructed using material such as Kingspan Insulated Panels and will be

grey in colour. Tank Farm

Up to nineteen bulk tanks will be used on site to store raw materials, finished

product, ancillary production materials and additional tallow storage. The total quantity of material stored on site at

any given time will be approx. 5,660 cubic meters, with finished product and tallow accounting for 70% of the

materials stored on site. The tank farm will be bunded in accordance with recognised standards.

Services The drainage system has been designed

to take account of the future development of a new WWTP for New Ross town and environs on an adjoining

site at Marshmeadows. This is expected to be built by end 2008 although the biodiesel plant is likely to be operating

prior to this. However if the WWTP is not completed at the time of opening then the facility will incorporate

temporary storage measures for domestic effluent, process wastewater, discharges from plant cleaning activities,

the compressed air, deionisation plant and boiler which will then be regularly

tankered off-site for treatment in the short term.

The drainage system is effectively spilt into foul and surface water flows which are ultimately routed to the New Ross

Town and Environs WWTP (when built) and the River Barrow respectively. The majority of external hardstand areas of

the site and roofs will drain to the surface water sewer via an oil/petrol interceptor and monitoring equipment

linked to shut-off valves. The tankfarm bund and methanol bund

walls are designed as water retaining concrete structures to BS 8007:1987 to accommodate 25% of the total tank

volume in accordance with CIRIA Report 163. The contents of the IPPC Guidance Note prepared by the EPA on

Storage and Transfer of Materials for Scheduled Activities will be noted.

There is no direct connection from the bunds to the drainage system under normal conditions. Rainwater will collect

into sumps in the tankfarm base slab and will be pumped (after visual checks) over the bund wall and into the surface water drainage system. If contaminants

are present, the water will be pumped to the WWTP in the long term, or tankered off-site in the event that the

new WWTP is not completed. The tanker loading and unloading areas

have been designated high risk with regard to spillage risk and therefore have shutoff valves on catchpit sumps

which will prevent entry of spills to the surface water system during operations. Procedures will also be implemented to

prevent spills. All pipelines installed will be in

accordance with BS 8000:1989 Part 14, BS 8010: Code of Practice for Pipelines

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53


Malone O'Regan Page v of xii

and BS 8301:1985 Code of practice for Building Drainage. The drainage system has been designed to retain firewater in the event of an emergency scenario such as a fire or

explosion. The firewater retention capacity required for the process building is estimated at 423 m³ and for

the tank farm at 1,828 m³. The minimum firewater retention provided with a concrete sump in the process

building is approximately 304 m³, while an overflow pipe will also be provided directly from this sump to the

underground attenuation tank which will take the excess volume. A shut off valve is provided at the outlet from the tank

which automatically closes in the event of a fire which prevents any firewater leaving the facility. Another shut off

valve is provided ahead of the attenuation tank which will also close in the event of a fire and prevent surface

water from the yard area mixing with any firewater in the tank. This surface water will be contained on site by the

upstand kerb provided to the full perimeter of the site. The full bund wall of the tank farm provides a retention capacity of approximately 1,830 m³.

In addition, in the event of a spillage in high risk areas, both the surface and foul water discharge points can be shut down to prevent the spillage entering

the river and/or the WWTP. The plant will operate an EMS which will contain emergency response procedures

covering the management of spills, fire and explosion.

Roads, Access, Parking etc. The plant will be accessed off the existing road serving the port which is

accessed from the R733 and forms the eastern site boundary. Parking spaces will be provided within the facility.

Water Supply

The plant will require up to 11m3 of water per day and this will be sourced from the existing 150mm main serving

Marshmeadows. Employment, Traffic and Operating

Hours During the operational phase of the

development it is considered that up to 25 permanent jobs will be created. The plant will operate on a 24 hour basis, 7

days per week. The numbers employed are relatively

small in terms of traffic generation and will be split over 3 shifts. Approx. 7.5 trucks or 15 truck movements are

anticipated on a daily basis. Technical Standards and Safety

Considerations The design of the plant will be done

according to the actual EN/ISO/DIN standards and technical rules. All necessary equipment will be provided with CE-marking.

Vessels, machinery and all other equipment will be purchased from well

known manufacturers and will fulfil the mechanical, technical and safety standards in chemical plant design. For

all equipment a material certificate according to EN 10204 2.2 will be enclosed.

The plant will shut down automatically in the case of a malfunction of the

safety devices such as the compressed air system, the nitrogen supply, the cooling system or a signal from the gas

warning system or fire alarm system.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53


Malone O'Regan Page vi of xii

A fire alarm and extinguisher system will be installed in the tank farm and process building in accordance with

safety regulations. All electrical drives and instruments as

well as the installation inside the hazardous area will fulfil the appropriate classification and rules.

Seveso Considerations Parts 1 and 2 of Council Directive

96/82/EC (i.e. the Seveso II Directive on the control of major-accident hazards involving dangerous

substances) set out the qualifying quantities of named substances and categories of substances and

preparations not specifically named in Part 1 whereby compliance with the Seveso II Directive is required. Based

on the quantities to be stored (of individual chemicals and the applicable categories (very toxic, toxic, oxidising,

explosive, flammable, highly flammable etc), and in process mixtures containing methanol, it is not considered that the

plant qualifies as a Seveso site.

Impacts on the

Environment

The assessment of impacts on the environment deals with the potential direct and indirect impacts arising from

both the site development and construction phases, and the long term operation of the facility.

Human Beings – Socio Economic

Ultimately, all of the effects of a development on the environment impinge upon human beings directly or

indirectly. The overall impact of the proposed development on the socio-

economic environment can be regarded as positive.

During the construction phase of the proposed developed it is envisaged that approximately 20 jobs will be created,

resulting in a locally positive short term impact in terms of employment generation. Approximately 40 new jobs

will be created in the long term between both the plant at Marshmeadows and the supply chain.

Terrestrial Flora and Fauna

An ecological survey was undertaken in order to characterise the receiving environment of the site.

There are no habitats, vegetation, or plant species of conservation

significance within this site as it does not contain any stands of natural or semi-natural vegetation. Overall the site

can be considered artificial and highly disturbed as it has been derived from infilling. The species mix has been

originated from the dumping of material, from the natural invasion of coarse and weedy species and from scrub invasion. As it contains such a

mixture, it is impossible to categorise the vegetation into one category, containing as it does elements of

several. There are no protected, rare or threatened species of flora found within this site.

From the perspective of terrestrial ecology, it is considered that no

significant negative impacts will accrue from the construction of the proposed biodiesel plant as there is nothing of

conservation importance in the area to be affected. The existing diversity of small mammal and bird species will still

occur in the immediate locality including

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53


Malone O'Regan Page vii of xii

those parts of the site which are not developed.

Aquatic Flora and Fauna and Fisheries

The River Barrow is a candidate Special Area of Conservation but is separated from the proposed biodiesel site by

approximately 350m, therefore the construction phase is unlikely to affect the aquatic environment. Nevertheless,

CIRIA Publication C584 – Coastal and Marine Environmental Site Guide - will be used as a reference document for

protection of water quality and in turn aquatic life, during the construction phase of the development. In addition,

CIRIA C532 – Control of Water Pollution from Construction, Guidance for Consultants and Contractors will be

used. In the long term, the development has

the potential to impact on the nearby cSAC, aquatic habitats, listed fish species or commercial fisheries in the

absence of mitigation measures. For example, biodiesel, its raw materials and intermediaries can contaminate surface waters if these compounds entered the

surface water drainage system and found their way to the River Barrow either during normal operations or

during an emergency scenario. However the design of the plant prevents abnormal discharge to the river under

either normal or emergency operating scenarios; accordingly there will be no impact on aquatic habitats, flora and

fauna. Mitigation measures such as diversion valves, firewater retention facilities, bunding, interceptors and the

implementation of an Environmental Management System will ensure this. Any emissions during the operational

phase of the development will be strictly

controlled as per the IPPCL monitoring requirements.

Soils, Sediment and Geology Impacts on soils, sediments and geology

can potentially arise during both the construction and operational phase of the development.

Construction Phase

The proposal comprises the development of an existing filled site. Site works will involve minimal filling to

provide level surfaces and boring of piles to support the new tank farm and process building. Blasting or excavation

into the bedrock surface will not be required. Therefore, no impacts on the underlying geology are expected during

the construction phase. There is also the potential for contamination of soils and underlying sediment by waste oil and/or

chemical run-off used during the construction phase of the development.

Operational Phase The plant can potentially result in impact on soils and subsoils as a result of emergency scenarios such as

spillages, firewater retention etc. Mitigation measures and/or factors

described under Aquatic Flora and Fauna and Fisheries - for the control and handling of oil during the

construction phase and the design of hardstand and drainage systems for the operational phase are equally applicable

to the control of pollution of soils and sediment.

Surface Water Quality The most recent statistics of water

quality for the River Barrow were published by the EPA in December 2005

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53


Malone O'Regan Page viii of xii

in the report entitled “Water Quality in the Suir/Barrow/Nore Estuary and Waterford Harbour - 2005”. The main

conclusion relating to the water quality of the River Barrow estuary is that overall water quality is mediocre.

Potential impacts and mitigation measures both during the construction

and operational phases of the development on water quality are as described under Aquatic Flora and

Fauna. There will be no impact on the water quality of the River Barrow as a result of the proposed development.

Hydrogeology

The proposed development is underlain by the following geological formations;

The Ordovician rocks of the Ribband Group are considered to be aquitards, having little groundwater potential as

high yielding water supplies. Locally high yielding wells can be developed in areas where the rock has been

weathered and/or faulted. In terms of potential pollution of groundwater, the mitigation measures

outlined under ‘Aquatic Flora and Fauna and Fisheries’ and the fact that there will be no discharges to groundwater

will ensure that there will be no adverse impact on the quality of groundwater underlying the site during both the

construction and operational phase of the development.

Air Impacts on air quality can potentially

arise during both the construction and operational phase of the development.

Construction Phase

The operation of mobile plant and equipment will give rise to emissions to atmosphere of combustion gases,

sulphur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen and particulates. However the emissions will not significantly impact on ambient air

quality, given the quality of the existing ambient air environment and the small volume of emissions expected.

Operational Phase – Site Specific

Potential emissions to atmosphere will primarily be derived from the following:

• The process involves reuse of

auxiliary chemicals such as methanol however there will still be point

source emissions mainly comprising of methanol from the distillation process.

• Working and breathing losses from

on-site tanks and delivery road tankers.

• Emissions of SO2, NOx, particulates, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide

from the boiler. • Fugitive emissions from the process

building.

Odours from materials held on site are not expected to be detected beyond the

site boundary due to the use of filters on tanks and scrubbers on point source emissions.

Process emissions will be abated using a scrubber system and will comply with

BAT ELVs. The process stack height has been set in accordance with the HMIP publication “Technical Guidance Note (DISPERSION) [D1]”. The boiler technology to be used on site

is considered BAT. The plant will not impact on Air Quality

Standards.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:53


Malone O'Regan Page ix of xii

Non-site Specific

Positive air quality impacts will accrue as a result of the proposed plant. A number of studies have been carried out

on the reduction in emissions from engines run on blended fuel. For example, a 30,000 tonne industry could

supply 25,000 cars (running on 100% biodiesel) and would achieve the following:

• Halving the amount of

particulate emissions from these vehicles.

• Reduction in CO2 emissions by

100,000 tonnes. • Reduced SO2 emissions.

• Reduced polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) emissions.

• Reduced carbon monoxide and

ground level ozone.

Climate The development itself will contribute, as

one of the first biodiesel plants in Ireland, to the development of carbon neutral fuels in Ireland thus contributing

towards Ireland’s efforts to curb emissions of green house gases and to achieve the targets set under the Kyoto

Protocol. A 30,000 tonne biodiesel plant is anticipated to result in a reduction in CO2 emissions of 100,000 tonnes.

Site Specific Impacts

Microclimate The development of the new biodiesel facility, at Marshmeadows will give rise

to structures similar in height to existing facilities on site (apart from the boiler stack which does not represent a large

mass) and therefore will not have an impact on the microclimate of the area.

It should be noted that there is no microclimate of note in any case.

Energy Efficiency The following measures will be

implemented to reduce energy usage:

• A comprehensive automatic

controls installation will be provided to help ensure the

ongoing, reliable, safe and efficient operation of the plant.

• Heated vessels, tanks and pipes

will be thermostatically controlled to minimize energy use. All storage tanks and

pipework shall be insulated to minimize heat loss and therefore energy input.

• The process building will be thermally insulated. It is

expected that no space heating will be required as heat loss from the process will be adequate to

maintain a reasonable working space temperature within the insulated building. Construction

materials have been chosen to maximize insulation where possible.

Noise The existing noise environment of the

site and the nearest noise sensitive receptor was characterised. The site is located directly on the R733 and

therefore the ambient noise environment is dominated by traffic noise. Moving westwards into the site the traffic noise

reduces and the ambient noise environment is relatively quiet as particularly when there are no loading

and unloading activities at the wharf or existing oil tank farms. The nearest noise receptor to the site is located

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54


Malone O'Regan Page x of xii

approx. 300m south of the southern site boundary on the R733. This location is strongly influenced by existing road

traffic noise. Construction Phase

The highest predicted noise level arising from the construction phase at the

nearest noise sensitive receptor is LAeq,t 64 dB. Noise levels were predicted in accordance with BS 5228: Part 1: 1997,

Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites.

During the construction phase all equipment will be required to comply with EC Directives relating to noise

emissions from construction, plant and equipment (S.I. 320/1988). These include compressors, welding

generators, excavators, dozers, loaders and dump trucks. Account will also be taken of BS 5228: Part 1: 1997 - Noise

and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites.

Operational Phase Plant equipment will comprise of noise sources such as chillers, compressors, a

boiler and cooling tower. In addition air abatement systems such as scrubbers can potentially give rise to noise impact.

Most noise sources will be indoors with the exception of the cooling tower and pumps on the tank farm. It can be

stated that at a minimum the EPA noise criteria for scheduled activities will be complied with. It is not predicted that

existing day and night time background noise levels will be impacted on. Accordingly there will be no impact on

the nearest noise sensitive receptor and existing background levels will not be breached.

Ship Related Noise

Noise will also be generated as a result of manoeuvring and docking of ships and loading of biodiesel for transport to

refineries either in the UK or Ireland. The noise arising from the docking and manoeuvring of ships and unloading of

petroleum has been measured at 10m from the existing wharf at Marshmeadows. Taking into account a

distance of 500m from the wharf to the nearest receptor, it can be concluded that there will be no significant impact

on the nearest noise sensitive receptor due to loading of biodiesel. Traffic Related Noise Traffic generated as a result of the development will have no impact on

existing traffic generated noise given the negligible volumes generated. A doubling of traffic would be required in

order to perceive an increase in traffic noise loudness. This will not occur as a result of the development.

Vibration There are no sources of vibration

associated with the long term operational phase of the development. Landscape and Visual

The initial landscape change arising from the proposed development will be

quite dramatic and is likely to be perceived as negative by many viewers although the majority of these will

comprise of passing motorists on the R733.

The design of the project will involve landscape / visual mitigation measures comprising of the planting of trees,

hedging and shrubbery along the northern eastern and southern boundaries.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54


Malone O'Regan Page xi of xii

An appropriate baffled public lighting system will be installed and the colour scheme will be white / silver in keeping

with the nature of the development and the fact that some of the structures will be visible against the sky.

Taking the proposed development as a combination of all of its elements,

recognising the potential landmark characteristics of the building structures, allowing for further development in the

area within a master-plan framework and including the mitigation of time, it is objectively expected that the residual

landscape / visual impacts of the proposed development will initially be moderately negative in the short term

and, reducing to moderate to slight and negative in the medium term, reducing to slightly negative/neutral in the long

term. Cultural Heritage

The site of the proposed development was once part of the intertidal mud flats

flanking the river Barrow. The land was reclaimed for agricultural usage in the 19th century and used for pasture and fodder-hence the name marshmeadows.

It remained subject to flooding. The site was infilled post 1970 for industrial use, with 1m of introduced subsoils. It is on

this man-made ground that the proposed development will be located. Impact on the ‘old ground’ i.e. the tidal

mud flats lying c. 3m below the contemporary surface is likely to be confined to piles. There is no evidence

that this particular site contains specific archaeological material however in general, there is a possibility that

riverbanks contain some archaeological material, consequently, deep pits and drains penetrating below 1m, will

require monitoring by an archaeologist.

Traffic The site is located off the R733 regional

road, approximately 1.75 km south of New Ross on the County Wexford shore of the River Barrow. The proposed

development will be accessed by the existing access road linking with the R733.

A traffic survey carried out in July 2004 on the R733 near the entrance to the

Marshmeadows site shows that the road at this point has an existing AADT (Annual Average Daily Traffic – that is

the number of vehicles passing this location in 24 hours) of 7,210 vehicles. Taking the traffic flow in the peak hour

to be 10% of the AADT the peak hour two-way traffic flow on the R733 at Marshmeadows is currently

approximately 720 vehicles. Existing traffic levels entering and leaving Marshmeadows are currently very low.

Construction Phase Traffic The phasing of the site development

and construction works will result in only a small number of construction vehicles accessing the site at any given time. Construction access will be via the main

entrance to the Marshmeadows site on the R733.

The extent of any impact on traffic and the local road network due to the construction phase of the development

will be minor. Operational Phase Traffic

Up to eight trucks per day are expected to visit the plant once it is operational.

Accordingly there will be no impact on the existing road infrastructure or traffic.

Solid Waste Infrastructure

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54


Malone O'Regan Page xii of xii

Construction Phase A small quantity of scrub/vegetation and

canteen waste will be generated; this will be disposed of using a licensed contractor.

Operational Phase The production process has been

designed to minimise waste. Auxiliary chemicals used in the process are re-captured for re-use.

A small amount of waste will be produced from offices and general day

to day activities at the site. This will mainly consist of packaging and canteen waste. However raw materials will

generally be delivered by tanker, thus minimising packaging waste. There will be no reject finished product as material

will be returned to the distillation process for further distillation if necessary.

Water Supply and Wastewater Treatment Infrastructure

In the region of 11m3 of water will be required daily for production purposes at the proposed development. Water will

not be abstracted from the River Barrow or from groundwater but will be supplied via the existing 150mm water

main serving Marshmeadows. The volume of water required for the plant will not significantly impact on the

current capacity of New Ross and its environs local water supply.

The new WWTP serving New Ross and Environs is expected to be completed in 2007 and is likely to be in operation

before the biodiesel plant. In the long term it is proposed to

discharge process effluent (approx. 5m3

per day from the process only) to the new WWTP.

It is expected that the process wastewater will have an average biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) in

the region of 6,000 mg O2l-1 and a

chemical oxygen demand (COD) in the region of 22,500 mg O2l

-1. Fats, oils and

greases are expected to comprise <0.2% while methanol is expected to be <0.045 – 0.1% of total volume. While

these levels are high, it should be noted that volumes will be low. Therefore due process will ensure that the proposed

biodiesel plant will not significantly impact on the future WWTP for New Ross Town and Environs.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54

Section 1Section 1

For in

spec

tion p

urpo

ses o

nly.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54


Malone O' Regan Page 1

Section One General

1.0 Introduction

Green Biofuels Ireland Ltd. wishes to construct and operate a biodiesel production plant and tallow storage facility at New Ross Port, Marshmeadows, Co. Wexford. The location of the proposed development is shown on Figure 1.

The proposed plant will convert, via a process known as trans-esterification, renewable, indigenous resources such as rapeseed oil, tallow and used vegetable cooking oils to a high quality, biodegradable fuel (biodiesel) meeting the EU quality standard EN14214 for use as a safe, sustainable, cleaner alternative to petroleum diesel. Biodiesel can be used in conventional combustion ignition engines as part of a blend or neat; thereby reducing emissions to air of hydrocarbons, carbon monoxides and particulates. It is considered to be a carbon neutral and energy positive fuel.

The proposed development contributes towards the achievement of some of the main objectives of Ireland’s Energy Policy which include:

• Security of supply • Environmental protection • Achievement of Ireland’s commitments under the Kyoto Protocol.

Subordinate and interacting objectives flowing from these primary objectives include:

• Diversification away from fossil fuel; • Discovery and economic development of indigenous supplies; • Maintenance and strategic storage of liquid and gaseous fuels; • Development and commercial exploitation of renewable energy sources

(which are indigenous), and • Research, development and demonstration of more energy efficient end use

technology and less carbon intensive energy supplies including renewables.

Specifically it is envisaged that the proposed development will contribute towards the following:

• An alternative use for waste vegetable oil. Traditionally waste vegetable oil was re-used in animal feed; this is now banned.

• An alternative use for tallow; compared to currently usage as a fuel in static burners and in animal feed.

• Implementation of the Bio Fuels Directive (2003/03/EC) which calls for 2% of all transport fuels to be biofuels by 2005 and 5.75% by 2010.

• Creation of long term employment in the rural economy. • Provision of sugar beet and tillage farmers with a valuable break crop.

Planning History

Malone O'Regan was retained in 2005 by Green Biofuels Ireland Ltd. to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement in respect of the proposed development. An initial planning application accompanied by an EIS was submitted to Wexford County

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54



Council in November 2005. Additional information including an Addendum to the original EIS was submitted in February 2006 which covered queries relating to Seveso and landuse planning, water quality, microclimate and flooding etc. Further consultation was carried out for the Additional Information Request with bodies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Southern Regional Fisheries Board (SRFB), local authority area engineers on wastewater and water supply, and the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) on Seveso and landuse. Planning was originally granted for the development in April 2006 (File Ref No. 20053780).

Minor proposed revisions in the site layout have since occurred and these entail movement of the process building by 10m within the site, a small increase in the elevation of the process building and changes in the tank farm layout. A second updated EIS was submitted to Wexford County Council in May 2007 (Planning File Ref No. 20065133) due to the proposed changes. At present the planning application with respect to the changes is still in process.

This EIS document represents an update on the November 2005 and May 2007 EISs and incorporates, where relevant, previous additional environmental information submitted with regard to Planning File Ref. No. 20053780 and 20065133.

It should be noted that the baseline information contained in the description of the ‘Receiving Environment’ for the ecology, archaeology, landscape and visual and flora and fauna chapters of this EIS reflects site visits carried out in 2005 and therefore describe the site as it stood then. Since then, groundwork has been carried out (permitted under File Ref. No. 20053780) however describing the impacts on the site as it stood in 2005 represents a more worst case scenario.

Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control Licensi ng

The facility cannot commence operation without an IPPC license from the EPA who will control all future environmental matters pertaining to the facility.

Biodiesel production is listed under the IPPCL Directive under the following activity:

4. Chemical Industry

Production within the meaning of the categories of activities contained in this section means the production on an industrial scale by chemical processing of substances or groups of substances listed in Sections 4.1 to 4.6.

4.1. Chemical installations for the production of basic organic chemicals, such as:

(b) oxygen-containing hydrocarbons such as alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, esters, acetates, ethers, peroxides, epoxy resins.

The above is transposed into Irish law within the Protection of the Environment Act, 2003, within Class 5 listed in the Schedule of Activities.

Appendix A contains a copy of a letter from the EPA stating that a license is required.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54



Biodiesel – Overview

Biodiesel can be used as an alternative fuel in diesel engines and for home heating. The main advantages of biodiesel compared to conventional diesel made from mineral oil are;

� It is biodegradable, and therefore is suitable for use in environmentally sensitive locations.

� It produces 50%-60% less soot during combustion. � It has an extremely low sulphur content. � Biodiesel is a renewable energy source. � Carbon dioxide emissions released during combustion are almost equivalent

to carbon dioxide absorbed from atmosphere during growing of feed crops i.e. carbon neutral.

� Biodiesel is an energy positive fuel compared to mineral oil diesel which is energy negative i.e. it takes less energy to produce biodiesel than the energy contained within it where as it takes more energy to produce mineral oil diesel than the amount of energy available within it.

� Carbon dioxide emissions are reduced by 15% when biodiesel is used in used in a 20% blend with mineral oil diesel.

BioDiesel International GmbH – Overview

Green Biofuels Ireland Ltd. proposes to develop the plant using the technology developed by BDI Biodiesel International. Founded in Graz Austria in 1996, BDI BioDiesel International provides solutions for the industrial utilisation of renewable resources. Technologies for the production of BioDiesel out of different raw materials are listed as their core competencies. BDI are the market and technology leader for building tailor-made and turn-key Multi-Feedstock BioDiesel plants.

BDI’s expertise extends to:• Research, Development, Feedstock evaluation • Project development, Management of Financing and Funding • Authority-, Basic and Detail-Engineering • Erection and Start-up • After-Sales Services

Since 1996 BioDiesel International has been involved with the start up and commissioning of a number of successful biodiesel operations on both sides of the Atlantic, including the successful set up of Scotland’s first biodiesel plant in Motherwell which was officially opened in April of 2005.

1.1 The Applicant

The applicant for planning and/or the IPPCL is Green Biofuels Ireland Ltd.(GBI); a joint venture company formed between Greengen Power and Wexford Farmer’s Co-Op (WFC).

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54



1.2 Site Location, Area and Description of Existing Uses

The site, comprising 0.87 ha, is located at Marshmeadows approximately 1.75km south of O’Hanrahan’s bridge at New Ross, on the eastern bank of the River Barrow, in County Wexford (see Figure 1 and the existing site layout on Figure 2). The site was filled in the past and was disused and covered in scrub vegetation as illustrated on Plates 1 and 2 up to recently.

The site is directly accessed via a gate on the north eastern corner of the site off the main entrance to the Marshmeadows terminal. The R733 regional road runs along the eastern boundary of the site. The site is bounded to the north by the Marshmeadows access road to the west by a warehouse operation and to the southwest and south by disused agricultural land as illustrated on Plates 1 and 2.

1.3 Surrounding Land and River Activities

At Marshmeadows, New Ross Port Company (NRPC) currently owns a 58m long reinforced concrete wharf supported on steel bearing piles. A 12m by 8.2m mooring dolphin is located approximately 20m downstream of the wharf. The berth is currently used for discharging petroleum products and as a general purpose berth. The downstream end of the jetty is occupied by oil discharge booms.

Much of the overall lands at Marshmeadows are currently used for tank farms for the storage of gas and oil and service yards relating to the oil companies occupying the site.

The fuel and oil storage tank farm at Marshmeadows is designated a Seveso II site under the EU Major Accidents Directive (96/82/EC) amended by Council Directive 2003/105/EC. This Directive requires Member States to ensure that the objectives of preventing major accidents and limiting the consequences of these accidents are taken into account in land use planning.

On the western bank of the Barrow, opposite to Marshmeadows in Raheen, County Kilkenny, is a privately owned wharf that handles bulk products.

The River Barrow forms a shipping lane for the existing wharf at Marshmeadows and also the other quays that make up New Ross Port.

The River Barrow

Marshmeadows is situated within the River Barrow and River Nore candidate Special Area of Conservation (site code 002162) which is a migration route or residence for several protected species. The area is also used by commercial fishermen who are licensed to catch salmon and eel.

The river Barrow is characterised by a number of acute bends, and a changing landscape where the river banks vary from the low-lying alluvial flatlands, in agricultural production, and salt marshes to steeply sloping tree lined banks. Figure 1 shows the Barrow estuary between New Ross and the Barrow Bridge.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54



1.4 Existing Site Services

Surface Water At present, the site has no surface water drainage system. Surface water run-off seeps directly into the ground.

Foul Water The site is not currently served by an effluent treatment system.

Water Supply Marshmeadows is served by a 150 mm diameter water main. It is part of the West Central Regional Water Supply Scheme which is supplied by the upland catchment at Poulmonty and Dranagh, Co. Carlow.

Electricity, Telecommunications and Lighting Electricity is currently supplied to the Marshmeadows site by an ESB substation and 100mm diameter ESB ducting. The site is currently served by a number of 100mm diameter Eircom ducts.

1.5 Legislative Requirements for an Environmental I mpact Statement

The proposed development falls within the remit of Schedule 5 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, and therefore requires an EIS under these regulations.

“Integrated chemical installations i.e. those installations for the manufacture on an industrial scale of substances using chemical conversion processes, in which several units are juxtaposed and are functionally linked to one another and which are for the production of basic organic chemicals.”

The Environmental Impact Statement has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (Part 10), and in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2001 (Part 10).

The Environmental Impact Statement addresses the impact of the overall development in detail, during both the construction phase and long term operational phase.

1.6 Structure of the Environmental Impact Statement

The structure of the EIS broadly follows the sequence described below:

• Non Technical Summary - comprises a summary of the proposed development and the principal findings of the environmental assessment in non-technical language.

• Introduction. • Planning context and need for the development. • A description of the proposed development. • Alternatives.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54



• Detailed assessment of the significant direct impacts of the development in terms of a description of the baseline receiving environment, impacts of the development and mitigation of those impacts.

The potential impacts in terms of the following environmental criteria are considered relevant and significant to the EIS:

• Human Beings • Flora and Fauna and Fisheries • Soils, Sediments and Geology • Surface Water Quality • Hydrogeology • Air Quality • Climate • Noise and Vibration • Landscape and Visual • Cultural Heritage–Underwater Archaeology • Material Assets

Accordingly, throughout the document, the impacts of the proposed development are dealt with under each of the above headings in the following way:

Structure of the Specialist Chapters Each of the specialist environmental chapters (Chapters 5.1–5.11) is set out as follows:

• A brief Introduction to the chapter. • An outline of the Methodology employed in undertaking the specialist

assessment. • A description of the receiving Existing Environment relevant to the

environmental topic under consideration. • A description of the Characteristics and Predicted Impacts of the

Proposed Development on the receiving environment. • A description of the reductive or Mitigation Factors and/or Measures

that reduce or eliminate any significant environmental impacts identified. • A description of Residual Impact of the development. These are the

remaining impacts that will occur after the proposed mitigation measures have taken effect.

• A description of Interaction with other Environmental Attributes . • Details of any Monitoring required. • Details of any Reinstatement required. • Difficulties Encountered in undertaking the assessment.

Supporting documentation, where relevant, is appended to the document.

1.7 Methodology

Guidance Documents The EIS was prepared taking due cognisance of the following guidance documents:

1. Guidelines on the Information to be Contained in Environmental Impact Statements (2002) EPA.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54



2. EPA Advice Notes on Current Practice in the Preparation of Environmental Impact Statements.

This Statement addresses the likely effects of the construction phase and the longer-term operation of the proposed biodiesel plant development. The scoping of aspects of the environment to be considered has been limited to those in which the effects of the development thereon satisfy the two statutory criteria - that the effects are LIKELY and SIGNIFICANT. Unless otherwise stated in the methodology of the individual specialist chapters, the significance criteria employed are in accordance with the EPA guidelines.

1.8 Consultation

Consultation is a practice that is carried out to ensure that all relevant issues are addressed. The consultation process for the proposed biodiesel plant involved the distribution of an informal Consultation Document to a number of consultees asking them for a written opinion on the proposed content of the EIS. The following bodies were consulted:

• New Ross Town Council • Wexford County Council • Southern Regional Fisheries Board • Heritage Section of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local

Government • Met Éireann • Geological Survey of Ireland • An Taisce • Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) • Peter Walsh, Barrow/Nore/Suir Snap Net Fishermen’s Alliance • The Marine Institute • Central Fisheries Board • Mr. Tom O’ Sullivan, Health and Safety Authority • Philip O’Kennedy, Campus Oil • Alan Gorman, Esso Ireland • Tom Meehan, New Ross Port Company

Responses were received from five of the consultees and all of the issues raised were taken into consideration during the preparation of the EIS. Appendix A1 contains the response from the Southern Regional Fisheries Board which required address within this document.

Details on any additional consultation undertaken by the individual specialists as part of their assessments are included within the relevant chapters/appendices of the EIS where applicable.

1.9 Project Team

Malone O’Regan undertook the preparation of the EIS in collaboration with the following specialists:

• Biosphere Environmental Services, Greystones, Co. Wicklow. • BHL Design, Landscape and Visual Consultants, Cork.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54



• Maurice Hurley, Archaeologist, Co. Cork. • Dr. Bernard Acton, Air Specialist, UK. • Mr. Ger Morgan, Aquatic Services Unit, UCC.

1.10 Abbreviations

The following abbreviations may be used throughout this document:

AADT Annual Average Daily Traffic AQS Air Quality Standard (S.I. No. 244 of 1987) BAT Best Available Technology BDI BioDiesel International Bgl Below Ground Level BOD Biochemical Oxygen Demand CFB Central Fisheries Board dB(A) A-weighted decibels DOEHLG Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local

Government LAeq A-weighted equivalent continuous level EC European Community EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EIS Environmental Impact Statement EMS Environmental Management System EPA Environmental Protection Agency EU European Union ha Hectare HGV Heavy Goods Vehicle HMIP Her Majesty’s Imperial Press IPPCL Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control License JWMP Joint Waste Management Plan for the South East Region, 2002 kg Kilogram km Kilometre kV KiloVolt kW KiloWatt l Litre m Metre m2 Square metre m3 Cubic metre mg Milligram min Minute NDP National Development Plan NHA Natural Heritage Area (prefix ‘p’ indicates proposed) NOx Nitrogen Oxides NO2 Nitrogen Dioxide NPWS National Parks and Wildlife Service NRA National Roads Authority NRPC New Ross Port Company NSS National Spatial Strategy OD Ordnance Datum OPW Office of Public Works p.a. Per Annum PCU Passenger Car Unit PE Population Equivalent

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54



pm Particulate matter ppb Parts per billion ppm Parts per million RAPID Revitalising Areas by Planning, Investment and

Development s Second SAC Special Area of Conservation (under EU Habitats Directive) S.I. Statutory Instrument SRFB Southern Regional Fisheries Board ss Suspended solid t Tonne TLV Threshold Limit Value VOC Volatile Organic Carbon WFC Wexford Farmer’s Co-op WWTP Waste Water Treatment Plant µg Microgram

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54

Section 2Section 2

For in

spec

tion p

urpo

ses o

nly.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54



Section Two The Planning Context and Need for the Development

2.0 Planning Context

Zoning Wexford County Council has prepared individual area plans, under which the proposed development is covered by the New Ross Town and Environs Development Plan, 2004. Within the Plan, the site is zoned for general industrial uses. Accordingly the proposed plant falls within the zoning objectives set out in the Plan.

National Development Plan 2007 - 2013 The policies of the National Development Plan (NDP) recognise the need for a greater emphasis on sustainable energy and to achieve our targets under international climate control agreements. According to the Plan:

“Some €276 million will fund the largescale development of wind energy capacity and the development of alternative sources of energy such as biomass and biofuels, ocean energy and solar and geothermal technologies, this is a further key element to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

National Spatial Strategy and RAPID Programme The National Spatial Strategy (NSS) 2002-2020 is a long term plan, designed to:

“ensure that the economy and society in Ireland develop to their full potential within a well protected environment, and with responsibility towards present and future generations and the wider international community.”

The National Spatial Strategy identifies various gateways and hubs. New Ross is strategically situated between Waterford (a gateway) and Kilkenny and Wexford (hubs). These three form a nationally strategic ‘growth triangle’. New Ross is described in the NSS as being an area with ‘Urban Strengthening Opportunity’. According to the NSS New Ross provides a good base for population and services which will attract investment and employment activities additional to those that need to be located in or near a gateway.

The town of New Ross has also been identified as a disadvantaged town/area under the Provincial Towns strand of the RAPID (Revitalising Areas by Planning, Investment and Development) programme. As such it is recognised under the National Development Plan (NDP) as an area in need of investment and development in a number of key areas such as industrial development.

Relevant County Development Plans and Regional Poli cy DocumentsDevelopment plans relevant to the proposed development include:

• New Ross Town & Environs Development Plan 2004. • Wexford County Development Plan, 2007 – 2013.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54



The New Ross Town and Environs Development Plan, 2004:

This document covers the proposed development at Marshmeadows. Two of the principle aims of the Plan are:

• To improve the living environment for the people of New Ross and to secure the conservation of existing amenities contributing to that environment, and

• To create conditions for the reduction of population decline, to stimulate population growth and promote in-migration.

Specifically the Plan identifies the following major objective, which is directly relevant to the proposal:

• To facilitate the relocation of New Ross Port to a location away from the town centre where there is sufficient zoned land to accommodate its expansion and the expansion of associated industries.

It is considered that the proposed biodiesel plant fulfils the objectives of the Plan as it contributes to conditions for population decline by providing employment and it is also considered a suitable and associated industry for the expansion of New Ross Port.

Furthermore, the development will take place in an area already appropriately zoned for port use and with all services in place. Portal development and association with a state of the art renewable energy project could act as a catalyst for further development in New Ross and its environs, thus improving on the town’s existing position under the provincial towns strand of the RAPID programme.

Wexford County Development Plan 2007 - 2013

Several of the objectives set out in the Wexford County Development Plan are relevant to the proposed development at Marshmeadows. These include the following objectives in relation to ports and sustainable economic development:

Ports

“3.6 Ports County Wexford is serviced by two important ports. The most significant is Rosslare Europort, with the other important port being the New Ross Port Company located in Stokestown on the outskirts of New Ross.

New Ross port specialises in the handling of both dry and liquid goods. The Council where possible will facilitate the expansion of current port facilities and associated port activities.

Policy TP15 The Council shall promote and support the role of h arbours, ports, piers and slipways in facilitating and developing sustain able fishing, marine activities, recreation and other related activities .”

The proposed biodiesel plant contributes towards the achievement of the above policies.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:54



Sustainable Economic Development

Extracts from the Wexford County Development Plan, 2007 – 2013 on sustainable development:

“4.2.1 Sustainable Economic Development In formulating policies to promote economic development the plan will: • build upon the county’s strengths such as its strategic location and good road infrastructure; • seek to promote economic development in co-operation with other agencies where appropriate; • promote the continuous upgrading of our infrastructural network to encourage and facilitate economic development;

In order to achieve this: Policy ED 1 The Council shall seek to optimise the use of exist ing industrial lands and factory space in towns and villages in conjunct ion with the IDA and other development organisations.

Policy ED 2 The Council will ensure that sufficient serviced la nd is available for enterprise and employment related development. The Council will ensure that suitable industrial lands are protected from inappropriate development that could compromise the economic pote ntial of these lands.

The development of specific key strategic opportunities in sectors such as science and technology, healthcare, retail, tourism, leisure and local services for the counties growing population is also promoted. Specific approaches to individual areas and sectors are set out in more detail in the various sections of the plan. These include reducing commuting via integrating land use and transport planning, and facilitating small and home based enterprise.”

The proposed biodiesel plant is a key strategic development locating on existing industrial serviced land and is an appropriate development given its proximity to its raw material supply needs and locating at the Port also ensures that sustainable transportation of end product can be realized.

2.1 Need for the Development

In summary the need for the development of biofuels, as stated by the Commissioner Andris Pielbalgs who is in charge of the EC’s energy office, is as follows:

“biofuels tackle climate change by avoiding emissions of greenhouse gases, they diversify Europe’s sources of energy and reduce dependence on oil imports and they offer new markets for European Agriculture.”

Ireland’s Obligations under the Kyoto Protocol

Along with all other EU member states, Ireland ratified the Kyoto Protocol on the 31st

May 2002 and is legally bound to meet a challenging greenhouse gas emissions reduction target now that the Protocol has entered into force.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



In order to meet the European Union’s overall commitment under the Kyoto Protocol, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 8% compared to the 1990 level, a burden sharing agreement was adopted in which Ireland was committed to achieve a greenhouse gas emission level not greater than 13% above its 1990 emissions level in the period 2008 – 2012. In 2002, Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions had actually increased1 to 25% above its 1990 emission level and are predicted to increase to almost 40% above its 1990 levels by 2008.

Biodiesel is considered to be carbon neutral under the Kyoto Protocol; carbon dioxide released by the combustion of plant derived fuel is considered to be equal to the carbon dioxide absorbed during its growth cycle. Therefore the substitution of fossil fuels with biofuels such as biodiesel would assist Ireland in meeting its Kyoto obligations.

It is estimated that a 30,000 tonne biodiesel plant would help to reduce CO2

emissions in Ireland by 100,000 tonnes per year.

Energy Security Ireland has a high dependency on imported fuel and currently imports 87% of its primary energy requirements. According to Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government figures, in 2001 Ireland consumed 1,832,277 tonnes of diesel and 1,513,741 tonnes of petrol for transport fuel.

The Biofuels Directive (2003/30/EU) sets a non mandatory target of 2% substitution for biofuels by 2005 rising to 5.7% by 2010. To meet this target from indigenously produced biodiesel Ireland would have to manufacture approximately 97,000 tonnes of biofuels by the end of 2005, rising to 276,450 tonnes by 2010. There is currently no commercial biodiesel production in Ireland.

A consultation document2, issued jointly by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and Northern Ireland’s Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, states:

“It is clear that securing the island of Ireland’s primary energy requirements almost exclusively from fossil fuel sources is increasingly unsustainable. Finding new and sustainable sources of energy, learning how to integrate them into our normal lives and overall, reducing the amount of energy we consume are amongst the most important challenges we currently face. We must act now to secure sustainability in the energy system which we will require for 2020 and beyond.”

Economic Development Oil prices have increased considerably in the past 24 months; this has resulted from an erosion of spare production capacity within the global oil industry, caused by an increase in demand in the Asian markets and unexpected natural disasters. Due to political factors, the length of time required to open new oil fields and develop refining infrastructure, will result in oil prices that are likely to continue to trend upwards in the medium term. It is likely that the longer term outlook for oil prices is even more bleak given that the resource is expected to run out sometime this century. High oil prices

1 European Environment Agency Report (2002): Greenhouse Gas Emissions; Trends and Projections in Europe. 2 All Ireland Energy Market: Sustainability in Energy Supplies, A ‘2020 Vision’ for Renewable Energy (July 2005).

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



present a considerable opportunity for local communities to invest in the ownership of small-medium scale renewable fuel production facilities.

The Single Farm Payment (SFP) scheme offers a real incentive for agricultural diversification away from food production. The growing of energy crops for energy purposes potentially underpins the competitiveness of existing rural businesses, encourages new start ups and supports the supply of energy in rural areas through distributed embedded production.

The continued development of the Port of New Ross is of strategic importance both to the south-east region and to the country as a whole.

Reuse and Recovery of Waste Materials Approximately 78,000 tonnes of tallow is produced in Ireland every year. Most of this is reused as boiler fuel within the rendering industry. It is estimated that 21,000 tonnes of this material could be reused for production of biodiesel3. However implementation of Directive 2000/76/EC on the incineration of waste may see the amount of tallow being reused as boiler fuel reduced as current users struggle to comply with the incineration directive requirements and subsequently it may become a waste product in need of disposal through either landfilling or being illegally dumped. A new market for this product in the form of biodiesel production would greatly help to reduce the amount of tallow entering the waste stream.

Approximately 29,000 tonnes of waste vegetable oil is produced in Ireland every year. Prior to 2004 the majority of this was reused as animal feed. However a ban on this practice (EU Regulation No. 1774/2002) has resulted in an excess of waste vegetable oil in need of disposal. Using this RVO for biodiesel production could potentially eliminate another source of waste and provide incentives to producers of RVO to not export to European or other foreign markets.

The Sustainable Energy Ireland report on recovered vegetable oil and animal fats mentioned above states that;

“Ireland has a specific opportunity to exploit its current and future RVO and tallow resource, as the current non-energy uses are coming under threat”

The utilisation of this fuel resource within Ireland can reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, potentially boost the rural economy and reduce CO2 emissions.

Ireland’s Energy Policy Ireland’s energy policy over the past two decades has focused on security of supply, environmental protection and cost competitiveness. The recent economic boom has placed increased demands on energy supply across all sections of the economy. The establishment of a biodiesel plant producing a renewable, indigenous supply of energy is fully in line with Ireland’s current and future energy policy.

Market Forces The usage of biofuels is almost non existent in Ireland at present however global consumption is now estimated at 3 billion litres per annum. The demand for biodiesel has doubled every two years since 1991 and continues to outstrip supply. Biodiesel has been in commercial production in Europe since 1991 and in the USA for the past

3 A Resource Study on Recovered Vegetable Oil and Animal Fats, Sustainable Energy Ireland, 2003.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



number of years. The market in the EU is primarily driven by the EU biofuels directive as discussed above and also by increasing diesel fuel oil prices.

The market for diesel cars has grown in recent years; diesel sales in Ireland have risen on average by 11% per annum since 1995. The sales of diesel models has increased from 10% of the market in 2000 to 17% in 2004. On the continent diesel sales have risen from 28% of the market in 1998 to 40% in 2004. In many EU markets diesel models now outsell petrol versions. Sales of diesel models in Ireland are anticipated to mirror European levels in the coming years and this will result in a substantial increase in demand for diesel fuel oil. Diesel cannot be produced without producing petroleum. With a declining market for petrol and increasing demand for diesel a resultant “diesel deficit” now exists which becomes greater as the market grows. Over time this shift in demand will become more unmanageable but biodiesel can have a significant impact on the deficit. The Directorate for Energy and Transport has assessed the potential market for biodiesel as very high.

Based on current sales of diesel models and the EU biofuels directives the demand for biodiesel in Ireland in 2006 is estimated at 49,000,000 litres at 2% inclusion rate and 157,000,000 litres in 2010 based on a 5.75% inclusion rate. The proposed plant will produce 34,500,000 litres of biodiesel per year. However this is likely to be exported initially where there is existing demand, and until the Irish Government introduces legislation to reduce or exempt the levels of excise duty currently being levied on fuels in Ireland.

Demand is also expected to grow from other commercial sectors. Companies with large transport fleets who are also seeking improved emissions and efficiencies will find that bio-diesel will enable them to contribute to their environmental obligations and potentially reduce costs at the same time.

It is envisaged that demand from Local Authorities and the public transport sector will be developed as the benefits of using bio-diesel become more apparent to the Irish Government and the closer it becomes to the target dates as set out in the EU directives. The advantages of using a bio-diesel blend in bus and taxi fleets are obvious and will help authorities meet the objectives set out in their environmental policies.

A primary advantage of biodiesel becoming established as the first major renewable transport fuel is the ease at which it can be integrated into the current distribution network without a need for new infrastructure. Refiners, blenders and distributors can incorporate the product up to the current maximum percentage of 5% without the need for any changes in the labelling or distribution system.

The product will be particularly advantageous for use in big cities as it has a low sulphur content and produces 50-60% less soot than conventional diesel.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55

Section 3Section 3

For in

spec

tion p

urpo

ses o

nly.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



Section Three Description of the Proposed Development

3.0 Introduction

This chapter provides information about the chemical characteristics of biodiesel, the process of converting oils and fats to biodiesel (transesterification), the proposed plant in terms of design, size and layout, safety and environmental considerations. It also provides an outline of the site development works and construction phase associated with the proposal. The design and operation of the main processes have been drawn up so as to minimise waste (gas, liquid, solid) production at source, to allow the recycling of waste back into the process as far as possible and to produce end materials which are easy to handle and which have on-going value. The following core activities will be carried out:

1. Materials receipt and storage. 2. Fatty acid esterification: tallow, recycled vegetable oils, rapeseed oil and

methanol are combined in the presence of a sulphuric acid and phosphoric acid catalyst.

3. Potassium methanolate (catalyst) production: the mixing of potassium hydroxide and methanol to form potassium methanolate.

4. Transesterification: mixing the esterified fatty acids and potassium methanolate.

5. Washing: removal of impurities (potassium salts etc) from the biodiesel. 6. Distillation of product: removal of water, salts and organic impurities via a

distillation process. 7. By-product acidification: Addition of sulphuric acid to produce liquid free fatty

acids, glycerine and potassium sulphate. 8. Potassium sulphate purification: Washing with methanol then drying. 9. Methanol distillation: separation of methanol and water for re-use. 10. Storage of product and by-products: collection, quality testing and storage in

large external storage vessels.

Auxiliary activities will include:

1. Laboratory testing. 2. Steam, heat and hot water generation (gas oil/ bioheating oil fired boiler). 3. Deionisation of water supply. 4. Air compression (for process instruments and pneumatic movement of

potassium sulphate powder). 5. Cooling air (for cooling some parts of the process). 6. Chilling water (for chilling some parts of process and cooling water). 7. Nitrogen generation (inert blanket).

3.1 Description of Raw Materials, Product and Key E lements of the Proposed Process

3.1.1 Biodiesel Characteristics

The chemical name for biodiesel derived from vegetable oils and animal fats is fatty acid methyl esters or C14 – C24 methyl esters. It is non-hazardous and has a flashpoint of 160.55 oC compared to fossil fuel diesel which has a flashpoint of 77 oC. It is non-explosive. Its hazardous decomposition or by-products are carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. Biodiesel is insoluble in water, is easily hydrolysed on contact

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



with water (would form an initial floating layer), has a high biodegradation rate and a comparatively low toxicity to marine plants and animals; it represents a slight hazard to water if allowed enter a watercourse. To humans it represents a much lower toxicity than common table salt. A material safety data sheet for biodiesel produced by BDI is contained within Appendix B.

3.1.2 Description of Chemical Process

Vegetable oils, used cooking oil and animal fat represent a very high-grade source of fuel when they are chemically changed (transesterificated). From a chemistry perspective these feedstock materials consist of free fatty acids and triglycerides - three long-chain fatty acids attached to a trivalent alcohol, the glycerine.

In the proposed development Green Biofuels will carry out the transesterification process to convert indigenous raw materials into biodiesel by removing the glycerine (trivalent alcohol) component and substituting it with a monohydric alcohol. Traditionally, the transesterification reaction normally took place at raised temperatures and pressures. However the state of the art BDI process, through the use of a suitable catalyst, allows the transesterification process to take place at lower temperatures and pressures.

The biodiesel obtained is a 100% substitute for ordinary fossil fuel derived diesel. It is also possible to blend biodiesel with fossil diesel in any ratio.

3.1.3 Technical Description

Semi-continuous Transesterification and Glycerine P urification

Both the alcohol-catalyst (MeOH-KOH) mixture required for the transesterification process and the purified feedstock are pumped into the transesterification unit. The alcohol-catalyst mixture is obtained with a mixing unit in the transesterification unit. After the transesterification process, the biodiesel is cleaned and excess alcohol is removed through distillation and recovered for later re-use. The BioDiesel is produced in accordance with the EN 14214 standard.

Glycerine produced as a by-product in the transesterification phase is purified through an evaporation process which separates the methanol from the glycerine phase. Methanol is recovered for reuse in the transesterification process. The crude glycerine with a glycerine content of approx. 80% has good commercial value as a raw material for soaps and other uses in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. Any excess potassium catalyst is converted into a solid fertilizer, which is a valuable basic material for the fertilizer industry.

All processing will be automated and controlled by advanced computer controllers.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



Basic Flow Diagram of Production Process:

3.1.4 Input Raw Materials

Tallow Tallow is a natural fat derived from animal tissue (in particular beef and sheep) which consists of a mixture of triglycerides (three fatty acids esterified with glycerol), with most of the fatty acids being saturated or mono-saturated with 16-18 carbon atoms.

Tallow quality is measured in terms of free fatty acids (FFA), bleachability and impurities (moisture, insoluble matter and unsaponifiable matter – MIU). The quality of the tallow is affected by the quality and type of raw materials, the rendering process and the tallow storage conditions.

It is estimated that 15,700 tonnes of tallow will be used on an annual basis within the proposed plant.

Recycled Vegetable Oils (RVO) Legislation has recently come into force to stop the use of RVO in animal feeds on the grounds that it may contain traces of banned animal fats or meat and therefore its traceability cannot be guaranteed. Some oils used in large scale food production, for example the potato crisps manufacture can still be used for feed, but in general other uses have to be found, of which the production of bio-diesel is ideal.

With the right process technology in place this RVO, mainly from restaurants and from households can be processed into high quality bio-diesel.

It is estimated that 13,000 tonnes of RVO will be used on an annual basis within the proposed plant.

Sulphuric Acid

Phosphoric Acid

Tallow, purified (max. polyethylene = 40ppm)

Used frying oil, purified (max. 1% water)Fertilizer

Rapeseed oil, filtered (powder form)

Methanol

KOH

Waste water

Recycle Methanol

Crude Glycerine 88%

Distillation side-product

BioDiesel EN 14214

Methylester-Methanol Recovery

Methylester-PurificationBioDiesel distillation

Quality Control

Glycerine demethanolisingGlycerine dewatering

Glycerine - Free fatty acid Separation

FertilizerSeparation

Glycerine phase Acidulation

Crude GlycerineNeutralisation

Methanol - KOH Preparation

Fully automaticTRANSESTERIFICATION

Ventilation systemNitrogenCompressed airSteam supplyCooling waterChilling waterVacuum systemFresh water

bio-heating oil

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



Rapeseed Oil Because of its favorable properties, (relatively high oxidation, stability, Iodine Value (IV) lower than 120 and acceptable winter operability) and the high yields of up to 2 tonnes of oil per hectare, rapeseed oil is dominating the supply market. Initiatives to produce non food rapeseed oil, specially adapted for bio-diesel production are currently being undertaken in the farming sector.

Rapeseed oil is a valuable agricultural commodity and 80% of EU production is used for food. At present, some 3 million hectares of arable land within the EU, an area equal in size to Belgium, produces 10 million tones of rapeseed. As only 20% of this crop is currently available for the production of bio-diesel it is estimated that land of similar size would be required to meet the EU’s bio-diesel needs.

It is estimated that approximately 2,000 tonnes of rapeseed oil will be used on an annual basis within the proposed plant.

The remaining ancillary raw materials required for the production process are summarised in Table 3.1 below:

Table 3.1 Inputs of Raw Materials Per Annum

Raw Material Estimated Amount to be Used Per Annum (Tonnes)

Methanol 3,316 Catalyst (Potassium Hydroxide) 460 Sulphuric Acid 430 Phosphoric Acid 31 Process Water 923 Total 9,360

The environmental impacts of the raw materials are summarised in Table 3.2 below:

Table 3.2 Environmental Impacts Associated with the Raw Materials

Raw Material Environmental Impact

Tallow Non-volatile, low toxicity, except for high BOD, immiscible with water, ready biodegradation. Almost solid at low (ambient) temperatures therefore will not migrate far.

Used vegetable oils, rapeseed oil.

Non-volatile, low toxicity, except for high BOD, immiscible with water, rapid biodegradation.

Methanol Miscible with water, volatile, potentially explosive when mixed with air, limited sorption to soil, high mammalian toxicity, high BOD, low bioaccumulation potential, moderate photo-oxidation in air to formaldehyde, rapid biodegradation in water to CO2 and water.

Sulphuric acid Low pH, corrosive, significant compartment likely to be water, dissociates in water to give hydrogen and hydrogen sulphate ions, toxic to fish and other aquatic life if allowed to enter surface waters. Acids are highly mobile in the soil environment and can affect soil pH

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



Table 3.2 cont’d. and hence the solubility and mobilisation of metal species.

Potassium Hydroxide

High mammalian toxicity, corrosive, will dissociate in water to potassium and hydroxide, causing increase in Ph, toxic to fish and other aquatic life if allowed to enter surface waters. Alkalis are highly mobile in soil and can affect soil pH, and hence the solubility and mobilisation of metal species. Easily treated by neutralisation.

Nitrogen Inert gas – asphyxiant in high concentrations.

Gas Oil Moderate toxicity depending on type, floats on water, individual dissolved components may migrate. Oxides of nitrogen and sulphur and particulates will be released when burned.

Phosphoric Acid Low pH, toxic inhalant if vaporised. Dissociates rapidly in water to give hydrogen phosphate. Thermally decomposes to phosphorous oxide and phosphine which are highly toxic vapours. Moderately toxic to fish and aquatic life if allowed to enter water courses and can contribute to short term eutrophication. If allowed to enter soils, pH is reduced and in situ soil bound metals are mobilised and can enter groundwater.

3.1.5 Output Materials

Approximately 30,000 tonnes (34,500,000 litres) of biodiesel will be produced each year. The remaining output products from the process are described in Table 3.3.

Table 3.3 Output Products from Production Process

Material Estimated Output Per Annum (Tonnes)

Crude Glycerine 3,015 Fertiliser Powder (waste catalyst) 523 Bioheating Oil (lower grade biodiesel boiler fuel)

769

Waste Water 1,631 Total 5,938

Table 3.4 sets out the environmental impacts of the end products.

Table 3.4 Environmental Impacts of End Products

End Product Environmental Impact

Biodiesel See Section 3.1 above. Glycerine Low toxicity except for high BOD. It is partially soluble in water

but biodegrades rapidly. It has a greater density than water and therefore sinks. Glycerine is therefore not suitable to be separated out of wastewater by the traditional oil interceptor system which relies on removal of floating layers.

Potassium Sulphate

Low toxicity solid, not highly soluble in water. Main potential impacts associated with dust release.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



3.1.6 Plant Operating Capacity

The BioDiesel plant is designed as follows:

Operating mode: semi-continuous Operating days per year: 330 Operating hours per day: 24

Capacity per hour: 3.79 t Capacity per day: 90.91 t Capacity per year: 30,000 t Annual operating hours approx. 7,920 hrs

3.1.7 Mass Balance

The BDI process takes approximately 1000kgs of feedstock, 107kg of methanol and small quantities of potassium hydroxide and sulphuric acid to produce approximately 975kgs of biodiesel, 99 kgs of crude glycerine and a small quantity of fertiliser and bioheating oil (lower grade biodiesel boiler fuel).

The biodiesel production is a semi-continuous process. The process has the advantage that sub-standard products can be recycled back into the system at a number of stages. It is operated at relatively low pressure and temperature which reduces energy use. All of the by-products are saleable. The raw material to product conversion is high as demonstrated above. The process is therefore considered BAT due to the low temperature and pressure required, its ability to handle multiple feedstocks, the methanol recycling and that it is a proven technology.

3.2 Description of Proposed Plant and Infrastructur e etc.

3.2.1 Main Process and Utility Building

The main building is spilt between the process and utility areas and will contain the following:

Ground Floor:

- Reception; - Steam Boiler room; - Process area with process vessels; - Workshop and spare parts; - Water deionisation unit; - Logistics room; - Stores; - ESB Substation/Switch room, and - Chemical (potassium hydroxide(KOH)) storage.

Upper Floor (part of utility section only):

- Offices, toilets, changing rooms, electrical room, control room, board room and laboratories.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



Figure 3 shows the overall proposed site layout incorporating the main process building. Figure 5 shows the internal ground floor layout of the process building. Elevation drawings and sections through the main process/utility building are contained within Appendix C.

The main building will be approx. 13.5m high with a column/distillation tower measuring approx. 19.5m in height from groundlevel. To avoid downwash building effects the process stack (process pipe is more realistic term as diameter is only 160mm) will be a minimum of 3m above this. The boiler stack will extend to 24m4

above ground level. The stack heights have been determined in accordance with the HMIP publication “Technical Guidance Note (DISPERSION) [D1]”.

The process building will be constructed using a material such as Kingspan Insulated Panels and will be grey in colour. A cooling tower will adjoin the tank farm as shown on Figure 3. The height of the cooling tower is approximately 2.5 - 3m above ground level. It is envisaged that up to a 7.1 MW steam boiler will be required for the biodiesel process and heating of tallow in tanks. The tallow line extending to the wharf will be trace heated by electricity.

3.2.2 Bulk Chemical Storage

Nineteen bulk tanks will be used on site to store raw materials, finished product and ancillary production materials as described in Table 3.5 and as shown on Figure 3. The quantity of finished product stored on site will be in the region of 2,000 tonnes. In addition, a number of additional tallow tanks will be used to store tallow for shipment to Europe. The tank farm will cover an area of 1,622 m2.

Table 3.5 Storage of Raw Materials, Finished Produc ts & Ancillary Materials on Site

Tank Capacity

Total Storage Capacity

Tank Height

Material No. of Tanks

m3 m3 m Rapeseed Oil 1 200 200 7.5 RVO 1 200 200 7.5 Tallow (feedstock) 2 200 400 7.5

Additional feedstock tank to act as temporary wastewater storage

1 200 200 7.0

Tallow storage 2 1000 2000 12 Biodiesel 2 1000 2000 12 Crude Glycerine 1 160 160 7 Methanol 1 100 100 6.5 Gas oil (boiler fuel) 1 50 50 5.5 Sulphuric Acid 1 25 25 3.6 Bioheating Oil 1 40 40 4.2 Phosphoric Acid 1 25 25 3.6 Nitrogen 1 10 10 3.5 Fertiliser Silo 25 25 3.6 Quality Tank 1 200 200 7.5

4 Planning has been granted for a stack height of 24m for the boiler. Recent information from the burner manufacturer inputted into the D1 calculation indicates that a minimum stack height of 25m may be required; as set out in Appendix F. However, the burner manufacturer will review the design or furthermodelling will be undertaken to ensure that 24m is sufficient. D1 is a preliminary screening tool for stack height calculations therefore the height required is likely to be overestimated.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



Additive tank 1 25 25 3.6

Thirteen of the tanks will be placed in a general bunded area as shown on Figure 3 depicting the proposed site layout. The methanol and gas oil tanks will be stored in their own bunded areas within the tank farm as shown on Figure 3. Both the sulphuric acid and phosphoric acid tanks will be placed together in a separate bunded area within the tank farm. The nitrogen storage tank and the fertiliser silo will be stored in separate areas as shown on Figure 3.

Potassium hydroxide will be stored in the main process building.

Bunding of tanks is described below under Section 3.2.3.

Chemicals will be transferred to and from the process building via an enclosed piped system.

3.2.3 Services

Surface and Foul Water Drainage

A drainage system for the site will be installed as shown on Figure 4. The drainage system is effectively split into foul and surface water flows which are ultimately routed to the New Ross & Environs WWTP (when built on an adjoining site in Marshmeadows) and the River Barrow respectively.

Temporary Foul Water Handling

The New Ross and Environs WWTP is expected to be built by the end of 2008 therefore the biodiesel plant is likely to be operating prior to the opening of the new WWTP. If the WWTP is not completed at the time of opening, then temporary measures will be implemented such as storage of the process wastewater, domestic sewage and very small quantities of wastewater discharges from plant cleaning activities, drying of compressed air, process water preparation, and the boiler in one of the proposed feedstock tanks (tank No. 19) in the tank farm. Wastewater (excluding domestic) will be pumped to this tank (No. 19) via the overhead pipe bridge. Domestic sewage will first be stored and macerated in a holding tank (see Figure 4) prior to discharge via an underground foul line to Tank No. 19 which will be emptied by tanker up to three times weekly to avoid septic conditions. All connections between storage and transportation will be secured and procedures will be implemented to ensure that the operation is attended by trained personnel at all times. The wastewater will then be tankered off-site for treatment at a local authority WWTP as discussed with Mr. D Cullinan at the meeting of 4/5/07 (See Appendix A2 for follow up letter).

Long Term Foul Drainage System

In the long term, foul effluent from toilets will discharge directly into the foul drainage system. The holding tank will be decommissioned. Process wastewater will be collected from vessels and will be piped via the overhead pipe bridge towards the tank farm. This will then enter the foul line connection adjacent to the north eastern corner of the tank farm to the main foul line along the eastern site boundary. A sampling port or sump will be provided prior to joining the main foul line to allow sampling of process effluent. The final discharge point from the site to the WWTP will have a shutoff valve and the flow will be controlled via the effluent pumps on site.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



Surface Drainage Layout

The majority of external hardstand areas of the site and roofs will drain to the surface water sewer via an oil/petrol interceptor and attenuation tank. The maximum surface water flow will be 2.9 l/sec.

The tankfarm bund and methanol bund walls are designed as water retaining concrete structures to BS 8007:1987 to accommodate 25% of the total tank volume in accordance with CIRIA Report 163. The contents of the IPPC Guidance Note prepared by the EPA on Storage and Transfer of Materials for Scheduled Activities will be noted. There is no direct connection from the bunds to the drainage system under normal conditions. Rainwater will collect into sumps in the tankfarm base slab and will be pumped (after visual checks) over the bund wall and into the surface water drainage system. If contaminants are present, the water will be pumped to the WWTP, or tankered off-site in the event that the WWTP is not operational at the time of the plant opening.

The tanker loading and unloading areas have been designated high risk with regard to spillage risk. It is anticipated that any spills will be minor and can be isolated in catchpit sumps and cleaned up prior to entering the drainage system. The loading/unloading areas will drain to the on-site foul sewer in the long term. Procedures will be implemented to prevent spills. In addition, a surface water shut-off valve will prevent release to the River Barrow in the event of a spill (however unlikely).

All pipelines installed will be in accordance with BS 8000:1989 Part 14, BS 8010: Code of Practice for Pipelines and BS 8301:1985 Code of practice for Building Drainage.

The drainage system has been designed to retain firewater in the event of an emergency scenario such as a fire or explosion. The firewater retention required for the process building is estimated at 423 m³ and for the tank farm at 1,828 m³.The minimum firewater retention provided with a concrete sump in the process building is approximately 304 m³, while an overflow pipe will also be provided directly from this sump to the underground attenuation tank which will take the excess volume. A shut off valve is provided at the outlet from the tank which automatically closes in the event of a fire which prevents any firewater leaving the facility. Another shut off valve is provided ahead of the attenuation tank which will also close in the event of a fire and prevent surface water from the yard area mixing with any firewater in the tank. This surface water will also be contained on site by the upstand kerb provided to the full perimeter of the site. The full bund wall of the tank farm provides a retention capacity of approximately 1,830 m³.

In addition, in the event of a spillage in high risk areas, both the surface and foul water discharge points can be shut down to prevent the spillage entering the river and/or the WWTP. The plant will operate an Environmental Management System (EMS) which will contain emergency response procedures covering the management of spills, fire and explosion.

Water Supply

In the region of 11 m3 of water will be required daily. Water will not be abstracted from the River Barrow or from groundwater but will be sourced from the 150mm

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



diameter water main serving Marshmeadows.

Electricity, Telecommunications and Lighting

Electricity is currently supplied to the Marshmeadows site by an ESB substation and 100mm diameter ESB ducting.

The site is currently served by a number of 100mm diameter Eircom ducts.

These services will be extended to serve the proposed biodiesel plant.

Roads and Access

Marshmeadows is accessed off the R733 and the site will be accessed from the existing internal port road just at the entrance off the R733.

3.2.4 Employment, Operating Hours and Anticipated T raffic

During the operational phase of the development it is considered that up to 25 permanent jobs will be created resulting in a positive local impact in terms of employment generation. At least a further 20 jobs will be created in the supply chain.

The plant will operate on a 24 hour basis, 7 days per week.

The numbers employed are relatively small in terms of traffic generation and will be split over 3 shifts. Approx. 7.5 trucks or 15 truck movements are anticipated on a daily basis. Accordingly, the additional traffic accessing and exiting Marshmeadows as a result of the proposed development is negligible.

3.2.5 Landscaping

Perimeter landscaping will be carried out along all the site boundaries with trees and hedging along the northern, southern and eastern site boundaries and hedging only along the western boundary.

The planting areas will be prepared with a minimum of 400mm topsoil over 600mm subsoil and will be gently mounded.

Trees (103 no.) will be 10-12 cm girth, standard or feathered, 3.5m high, well staked and tied.

Trees will consist of upright growing, hardy varieties of the following native and naturalized species:

Betula BirchSalix Willow Alnus Black Alder Fraxinus Ash Fagus Beech – along by the road only to match the beech across the

road.

Trees will be planted in groups of the one variety spaced 3 metres apart and staggered where there is more than one row.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



It is the intention that the trees will be thinned and receive tree surgery over time to maximize their establishment and long-term survival.

Along the boundary fence (outside fence on the northern and eastern boundaries) a mixed hedge of Crataegus monogyna (hawthorn), Salix cinerea (shrub willow) and Ilex aquifolium (holly) will also be established, plants to be 45 -90cm when planted in a double row spaced 0.5m each way and staggered.

Planting will take place in the first planting season following completion of construction activities on site and will be well-cared for subsequently including watering, firming/adjusting stakes and ties and long-term pruning and thinning.

All plants that fail within three years of planting will be replaced with plants of equivalent type and size.

3.3 Technical Standards and General Safety and Envi ronmental Considerations

The most significant event that could occur is a major explosion arising from development of a potentially explosive methanol/air mixture within one of the process tanks, triggered by heating or electrically operated stirring etc.

Areas considered to have a risk of an explosive gas atmosphere are classified as hazardous areas as defined in HSG176 “The Storage of Flammable Liquids in Tanks” (based on EN 60079-10). Although these measures are largely safety related, they are listed as any accident could have potentially significant environmental consequences. The following safety information is provided to demonstrate how such impacts can be avoided:

The design of the plant will be done according to the actual EN/ISO/DIN standards and technical rules. All necessary equipment will be provided with CE-marking.

Vessels, machinery and all other equipment will be purchased from well known manufacturers and will fulfil the mechanical, technical and safety standards in chemical plant design. For all equipment a material certificate according to EN 10204 2.2 will be enclosed.

Processing equipment for the production line (vessels, machines, pipelines, instruments, etc.) will be made of stainless steel or other resistant materials. The insulation of vessels and pipelines will be covered with aluminium plate.

All pumps for methanol will be sealed with a magnetic coupling (packless). All other pumps are equipped with single-acting mechanical seals. Every pump is monitored by the Process Operating System (POS) to prevent dry running.

All process tanks and machines are designed to be gas tight and will be connected via a gas displacement system. The whole system is covered by nitrogen at excess pressure. This prevents the entry of oxygen and therefore avoids the generation of an explosive mixture with methanol vapours.

The process room is classified as hazardous area zone 2 (according to EN 60079-10). A gas warning system (measurements of the lower explosion limit) monitors the methanol concentration in the room. If the system detects a dangerous methanol

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



concentration, the plant shuts down automatically in a safe manner and the emergency ventilation system is started.

The plant will shut down automatically in the case of a malfunction of the safety devices such as the compressed air system, the nitrogen supply, the cooling system or a signal from the gas warning system or fire alarm system.

A fire alarm and extinguisher system will be installed in the tank farm and process building in accordance with safety regulations.

All electrical drives and instruments as well as the installation inside the hazardous area – zone 2 will fulfil the appropriate classification and rules.

Under normal operating conditions there will be one air change per hour. Up to 5 changes per hour will occur if 20% of lower methanol explosion limit is detected by the emergency system.

Seveso Considerations

Methanol is required as a catalyst in the transesterification process to create biodiesel. Methanol is present on site in both the process tanks and also in the methanol tank (tank farm). Methanol is listed in the Council Directive 96/82/EC of 9 December 1996 (called Seveso II – Directive amended by Council Directive 2003/105/EC) on the control of major-accident hazards involving dangerous substances (transposed into Irish law as S.I. No. 74 of 2006). Schedule 1, Part 1 of S.I. 74/2006, lists methanol and thresholds are given above which the regulation applies. For methanol a threshold of 500 tonnes of methanol on site is given for the application of Articles 6 and 7 of the Seveso II Directive.

Mixtures and preparations are to be treated in the same way as pure substances provided they remain within concentration limits set according to their properties. Substances are classified according to the Council Directive 67/548/EWG. In Annex 1 of the Seveso II Directive, concentration limits for preparations are given. The concentration limit for methanol, which is only used when determining if the Seveso II Directive applies, is 10%, the lower of the toxic concentration limits. This means that preparations containing methanol have to be treated as pure methanol if the methanol concentration is equal to or exceeding 10%.

Therefore for the calculation of the total amount of methanol on site, only preparations and mixtures with a methanol content >10% have to be considered as described above. The sum of methanol on site is approximately 240 tonnes, therefore the regulation does not need to be applied with regard to Part 1 Named Substances.

Other Chemicals

Part 2 of the Directive refers to categories of dangerous substances not specifically named in Part 1. Based on the quantities to be stored on site of individual chemicals (see Table 3.3) and the applicable categories (very toxic, toxic, oxidising, explosive, flammable, highly flammable etc), it is not considered that the plant qualifies as a Seveso site. While some chemicals stored on site do possess some of these characteristics, they would not be stored in sufficient quantities to qualify the proposed plant as a Seveso site. Category 9 refers to substances which are

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



dangerous to the environment in combination with the risk phrases R50, R51 and R53 described below as:

R50 Very toxic to aquatic organisms

R51 and R53 Toxic to aquatic organisms and may cause long term adverse effects in the aquatic environment.

Biodiesel and tallow will both be stored in quantities of up to 2,000 and 2,400 tonnes respectively on site. The properties of biodiesel and tallow are described in Section 3.1.1 and Table 3.2 above respectively. Both biodiesel and tallow would be considered as representing a slight hazard to water or harmful to the aquatic environment if released to a water course however neither would fall within the scope of the above risk phrases. Accordingly the proposed plant does not fall within the scope of the Seveso II Directive. It should however be noted that the biodiesel plant will be subject to licensing by the EPA. Accordingly, all measures to minimise risks to the environment and human beings will be taken regardless.

Consultation with the HSA

MOR has consulted since 2006 with the HSA on numerous occasions regarding a) determining if the facility is a Seveso site b) the siting of this plant within an existing Seveso site, and c) the potential for a domino effect with other facilities present. It is agreed that, based on the information provided above to the HSA, that the HSA does not consider the biodiesel plant as within the scope of the Seveso II Directive and is therefore not an established activity.

With regard to adequate distance from the existing Seveso facilities at Marshmeadows (Campus and Esso), it was initially considered by the HSA that adequate distance exists between the biodiesel plant and existing flammable liquid storage facilities at Marshmeadows and as such the facility was granted planning in 2006 (Planning File Ref. No. 20053780). However, the recent planning application (Planning File Ref No. 20065133) has required further consultation with the HSA. New guidelines issued by the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) arising from the Buncefield incident in the UK are currently under consideration with regard to the distance between the biodiesel plant and the Campus fuel depot and further risk assessments are currently being carried out in this regard.

Environmental Management Considerations

The plant will operate in accordance with an EMS which will include for the following:

- Identification of key environmental impacts of the operational activities; - The setting of objectives and targets and a programme of improvements; - Regular monitoring of environmental performance; - Regular auditing both internal and external; - Establishment of operational controls to prevent and minimise significant

impacts; - Regular reporting of environmental performance; - Monitoring and control systems will be implemented; - Environmental procedures including incident reporting, complaints, and

emergency procedures will be established; - Provision of environmental awareness training and- Establishment of preventative maintenance programmes.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



Process Monitoring and Control

Typical monitoring and control measures which will be implemented in the plant are described in Table 3.6.

Table 3.6 Process Monitoring and Control Equipm ent Likely to be Used

Activity Area Key Monitoring and Control

Bund – floating level monitor Tank – ultrasonic high and low level liquid alarms Loading/delivery spill alarm

Tank Farm

Minor spill absorbing kits Fatty Acid Esterification Ventilation System (nitrogen blanket) Trans-esterification Temperature and pressure gauges Washing Temperature gauge Pressure gauge Glycerine Purification pH meter Potassium sulphate purification

Air filter

Condenser and wet scrubber

Water pump and back up pump

pH and TOC meter Surface water drains Automatic drain shutoff valve

Boiler Exhaust gas oxygen meter Tank integrity and associated pipework checks Bund walls and floor checks Drip trays and sump checks Extract fans and ductwork monitoring Main control panel and failure alarms continual monitoring Building extract fan monitoring

General

All concrete storage area checks

3.4 Wastes and Emissions – Operational Phase, Abate ment Summary

In the longer term operation of the biodiesel facility, the following wastes and emissions are expected. It should be noted that all monitoring and control of process waste, emissions to air, noise and surface water will be controlled by the EPA.

3.4.1 Process Waste

The normal outputs from BDI’s biodiesel manufacturing process are biodiesel, glycerine and solid fertiliser. Bioheating oil (a lower grade fuel similar in characteristics to the biodiesel) will be produced, depending on feedstock quality. The bioheating oil will be used in a fuel mix in the onsite boiler. In general there will be no process waste generated, intermediary by-products and ancillary chemicals such as methanol, alkali, impurities in the product and by-products and excess fatty acids generated during production will be recycled back into the process.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:55



Solid waste generated from office, administration and canteen facilities will be segregated into waste streams, stored on site and recycled or disposed of (only where waste cannot be segregated). The waste for recycling or disposal will be collected by permitted/licensed contractors and handled in accordance with the terms of their permit/license.

3.4.2 Emissions to Atmosphere

Process Emissions

Potential emissions to air can arise as a result of both point source and fugitive emissions from the process stack and building.

The process is designed to recycle auxillary materials however the potential exists for methanol, water vapour, sulphuric acid droplets, oil droplets and particulates to be emitted from the process stack. Methanol will be the only substance present in significant quantities within the waste gases from the biodiesel process. Methanol emissions from the distillation process will be captured through condensation with a residual amount captured through use of a wet scrubber. The wet scrubber will also be used to capture water vapour, sulphuric acid droplets, oil droplets and particulates.

The biodiesel manufacturing process is a closed system. All vessels inside the process building are connected to an overpressure ventilation system. The system is filled with nitrogen at over pressure to avoid explosive methanol/oxygen concentrations. The pressure of the system is controlled by the automated Process Control System. At low pressure a valve to the nitrogen supply is opened, at high pressure a valve is automatically opened and excess gas flows to the wet scrubber system. Accordingly fugitive emissions from the process are avoided.

Working and Breathing Losses from Storage Tanks

Storage tanks will be fitted with filter systems to reduce breathing and working losses and these will also act as odour suppression systems. The majority of substances stored have low vapour pressures and therefore the volumes emitted through the tank vents will be low. Specifically, the tallow and vegetable oil tanks will all have activated carbon filters within the tank vents which will minimise any organic releases via the vents and a programme will be put in place to ensure regular replacement of filters as part of the EMS for the site.

The methanol tank vent will have a valve so as to only release methanol vapour if the tank is over pressured. This will be minimised by always leaving adequate expansion in the tanks to accommodate the maximum expected expansion due to atmospheric temperature changes. During filling of the tanks there will be a back venting system so any fugitive methanol returns to the supply tanker.

Boiler Emissions

Emissions of NOx, SO2, particulates, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide will arise from the boiler.

Cooling Tower Emissions

There will be no emissions except heat loss and noise from the dry cooling tower

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



system. A dry cooler uses air blasting against a closed coil to cool the process liquid held inside the coil. The coils within the system may require cooling with water during very hot weather and this water would then be collected for disposal. There is no evaporation in the closed cooling circuit of a dry cooler therefore no bleed off is required.

Potassium Sulphate Silo Emissions

Emissions from the potassium sulphate storage silo will be potassium sulphate dust. There will be a local extraction system from the silo equipped with an air filter. The silo will be loaded pneumatically in a sealed system which means that there are no dust emissions between the process dryer and the silo.

General Building Ventilation

The general atmosphere inside the process building will be changed once per hour by an extraction fan and emitted through a dedicated vent on the roof. During planned maintenance and/or any abnormal circumstances, the air in the building can be changed five times per hour but is likely to be twice per hour. The building fan is expected to operate in normal mode up to 99.5% of the time. During maintenance or under abnormal circumstances methanol emissions could occur.

Emission Limit and Mass Threshold Values

Emission concentrations and/or mass threshold flows will comply with emission limit values set by the EPA as part of the IPPCL for the facility. The final abatement design will also be determined and agreed with the EPA during the license application process.

3.4.3 Waste Water

Process Wastewater

Process wastewater arises from the core and auxiliary activities which will be carried out on site.

Biodiesel Production Process

The average amount of wastewater from the BioDiesel production process will be about 190 kg/h or 3 – 5 m3 per day. This wastewater may contain methanol, feedstock, methylester, glycerine, dissolved salts and traces of high volatile matters. The required water for the BioDiesel washing stages is discharged to the acidification tank and recycled through the process (wastewater from the process is distilled prior to discharge). Most of the fats/oils, solids remain at the bottom of the distillation. The wastewater still contains some methanol and some volatile organics. The process has been designed to minimise the volume of wastewater. The average quality of the wastewater from the production process and estimated concentration without treatment is shown in Table 3.7.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



Table 3.7 Biodiesel Production Process Wastewater Q uality Characteristics

Water Quality Parameter Anticipated Effluent Qualit y

COD 22,500 mg O2l-1

BOD5 6,000 mg O2l-1

Fats/oils/grease <0.2% pH 5 Methanol <0.045 - 0.1%

Note: The letter of consent from the Council in Appendix A2 was based on the effluent characteristics submitted to the Council in Table 3.7 of the May 2007 EIS. This is slightly different to Table 3.7 above in that the BOD was higher but the methanol was lower in Table 3.7 of the May 2007 EIS. GBI will strive to ensure that the methanol remains lower than 0.045% as discussed with Wexford County Council.

Some wastewater will also be generated by routine plant cleaning, such as that caused by maintenance, repair, accidental contamination and spillage. This procedure will be carried out weekly. All plant areas will have metal chutes (inside the process building) respectively, and drain gutters for maintenance / drainage / washdown draining to internal collection points/tanks/sumps within the process building. Minimal concentrations of contaminants are expected (commercial cleaning agents, methanol, feedstock, methylester, glycerine, dissolved salts and traces of high volatile matters). The concentrations of certain components can be slightly higher than those of the wastewater stream emanating from BioDiesel production mentioned above. The actual amount of washdown generated will almost certainly be smaller (estimated max. flow 10m³ / week). The estimated range of values for the production combined with the maintenance wastewater is presented in Table 3.8 below:

Table 3.8 Wastewater Characteristics from the Produ ction Wastewater combined with Weekly Cleaning

Water Quality Parameter Anticipated Water Quality

min – max average Amount max 2000 [m³/yr] 1500 [m³/yr] COD 15.000 – 30.000 [mg O2/kg] 20.000 [mg O2/kg] BOD5 1.000 – 12.000 [mg O2/kg] 6.000 [mg O2/kg] Lipophil substances max. 0.2 [% mass] 0.1 [% mass] pH value 5.0 – 8.0 6.0 Methanol max 0.2 [% mass] <0.1 [% mass]

The value of the COD can vary heavily depending on the compound of the raw material and on the operation modus of the plant. The values given above are experience values from other plants. They are average values during continuous production and appropriate operation. Auxiliary Processes

The boiler will be used to generate steam and hot water. Both the steam and hot water are circulated in closed systems, however a small percentage is blown down regularly (approximately 2-3% based on the quantity of condensate return) and re-supplied from the deionisation plant.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



Minimal quantities of water will condense from the air compressor (approx.16.8 lt/day). This water will contain some hydrocarbons from the hydraulic oil used in the compressor.

The demineralisation plant will generate process water for the Biodiesel process. The estimated amount of wastewater from this process is 100 lt/hr.

There will be no bleed down from the dry cooling tower.

Sanitary Wastewater

Domestic effluent arising from toilets and canteen facilities will, in the long term, be pumped directly to the proposed local authority WWTP as indicated on Figure 4.

In the event that the WWTP is not complete prior to the opening of the plant, sanitary discharges will be mixed with the process wastewater and tankered off-site for disposal as described in Section 3.2.3.

Wastewater Summary

In total it is envisaged that up to 8m3 of process wastewater per day will be generated.

In the event that the New Ross Town and Environs WWTP is not completed at the time of opening, the effluent will be collected for off-site disposal as described in Section 3.2.3. In the long term process wastewater will be disposed of to the WWTP for New Ross Town and Environs.

While the concentrations of potential contaminants in the process wastewater are higher than would normally be accepted as BAT, the process has been designed to minimise the volume of wastewater. This therefore results in a high concentration of contaminants in the small volume of waste water generated.

Surface water

Surface water runoff from roofs, hardstand and roads will discharge to the river via an attenuation tank and petrol interceptor. The final discharge point from the facility will be fitted with a TOC and pH meter which will send a signal via the on site process control system to an automatic shut-off valve should any abnormal changes be detected. The type of interceptor used will be a Klargester NS125 Class 1 Full Retention Oil Interceptor which will be oversized to retain a large volume of material. This will be regularly inspected and emptied as part of the EMS for the plant. The surface water discharged post interceptor is expected to be in the range of pH suitable for the protection of freshwater fish. (pH 6 – 9), of ambient temperature and with total hydrocarbons at no more than 0.5 mg/l post interceptor. The post interceptor BOD is expected to be less than 5 mg/l in order for it to retain its surface water classification. Post interceptor suspended sediments are expected to fall below the EQS of ≤ 50 mg/l. Automatic shut-off valves based on pH will be triggered when pH values move out of the EQS range. Surface water which collects in bunded areas will be visually inspected and tested in accordance with the requirements of the waste license prior to discharge to the surface water drainage system.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



3.4.4 Noise

There are a number of industrial noise sources on site such as the chiller and compressor unit, scrubber, boiler and process building ventilation fan. All of these sources will be housed indoors with the exception of the extraction fan on the roof which will however be fitted with appropriate silencers etc. The cooling tower and tank farm pumps represent the main external plant equipment liable to potentially give rise to noise impact. The proposed development is currently being designed to comply with the EPA guidelines on noise from scheduled activities. The EPA Guidance Values for the nearest noise sensitive receptor are as follows:

• Free-field L Ar,T value of 55 dB by day-time (08:00hrs – 22:00hrs) • Free-field L Aeq,T value of 45 dB by night-time (22:00hrs – 08:00hrs)

Furthermore, according to the EPA Guidance Note for Noise in Relation to Scheduled Activities, rigorous efforts should be made to avoid clearly audible tones and impulsive noise at all sensitive locations, particularly night time. A penalty of 5 dB for tonal and/or impulsive noise should be applied to the day-time measured LAeq values to determine the appropriate rating level (L Ar,T). During night time no tonal or impulsive noise from the facility should be audible at any noise sensitive location.

At a minimum, the EPA Guidance Values will be complied with.

3.4.5 Odour

Potential sources of odourous emissions arising from activities at the facility are considered to be from the heated tallow, rapeseed and vegetable oil feedstock tanks, in particular during delivery of the feedstocks. Therefore all these tanks will incorporate activated carbon filters.

No fugitive odours will be generated during normal operation of the process as all of the vessels are either closed or vent only to the process exhaust stack. The exhaust system will contain only low concentrations of organic particles as most of these will be trapped in the condenser. Any particles which do get through will be wet scrubbed prior to discharge to the atmosphere.

Odours are not expected to be detected beyond the boundary of the site and this has been the case with other BDI designed plants operating around Europe.

3.5 Site Development Works and Construction Phase

The site development works and construction phase will, in general, comprise:

• Filling/levelling of site to required ground levels. • Piling and reinforced concrete foundations for buildings. • Provision of foul and surface water drainage network. • Construction of reinforced concrete yards/roads. • Construction of reinforced concrete bunds in tank farm. • Construction of steel framed, steel sheet clad building. • Construction of steel pipe bridges. • Perimeter landscaping.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



3.5.1 Programme

The construction phase is expected to be completed in early 2008 and the facility is expected to be operational in 1st quarter 2008.

3.5.2 Construction Procedures

BAT principles will be applied in planning and executing the construction to ensure that impacts on the environment will be minimal.

The earthworks contractor will be required to manage the works and control dust emissions, run-off, noise, sequencing of earthworks operations, stockpiling, grading, grassing etc.

Construction equipment will comply with SI 320 of 1988: EC (Construction Plant and Equipment Permissible Noise Levels) regulations, 1988. Account will also be taken of BS 5228:1997: Noise control in construction and open sites.

3.5.3 Construction Traffic, Hours of Operation etc.

During the construction phase it is anticipated that construction traffic will be relatively small at approximately 20 passenger cars and 10 HGVs accessing the site per day.

During the construction phase of the proposed development it is envisaged that approximately 20 jobs will be created, resulting in a locally positive impact in terms of employment generation.

Site work will normally be restricted to 07:00 to 20:00 hours Monday to Friday and 07:00 to 16:00 hours on Saturday, with the exception of essential activities such as repairs. Generally, site work will not be permitted on Sunday or at night time, except where programme constraints or safety concerns necessitate it.

Temporary facilities will be provided for construction workers during the development phases.

3.6 Wastes and Emissions – Site Development and Con struction Phase

3.6.1 Solid Waste

There will be no significant source of solid waste requiring offsite disposal during the construction of the biodiesel facility. Any off-site waste disposal will be agreed with the Planning Authority, prior to transport off site.

3.6.2 Emissions to Atmosphere

The operation of mobile plant and equipment during construction will give rise to emissions to atmosphere of combustion gasses, sulphur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen and particulates.

The transportation of materials to the site may potentially give rise to an increase in dust levels along the transportation route.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



3.6.3 Noise

The operation of mobile plant and equipment will give rise to noise emissions during earthworks and site development.

All mobile plant will be in compliance with SI 320 of 1988: EC (Construction plant and equipment permissible noise levels) Regulations, 1988.

Nuisance noise resulting from construction activities will be temporary in nature.

The transportation of construction materials to the site may potentially give rise to an increase in noise levels along the transportation route.

3.6.4 Waste Water

There will be no sources of wastewater arising from earthworks or construction activities on site. Portable toilets will be provided by the contractor and the foul waste will be removed on a regular basis by a Local Authority approved licensed Contractor.

Arising from the site development works, there will be an increase in the suspended material load of the surface water runoff from the site. Surface water drainage during on-land site development will be via silt traps.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56

Section 4Section 4

For in

spec

tion p

urpo

ses o

nly.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



Section Four Alternatives Addressed

4.1 Introduction

The Planning and Development Regulations 2001, specifies the information to be contained within an EIS. Schedule 6 1(d) specifies that an EIS shall include "An outline of the main alternatives studied by the developer and an indication of the main reasons for his or her choice taking into account the effects on the environment."

Therefore, as part of the initial planning stages for the proposed development, a number of alternatives were evaluated for the biodiesel development at New Ross Port. These alternatives included other sites, other uses for the site chosen and process changes taking account of environmental impacts.

4.2 “Do-nothing” Alternative

The “do-nothing” alternative consists of retaining the current port facilities at Marshmeadows, without expansion through the development of the Biodiesel facility. The Port of New Ross, in order to remain viable as a commercial activity, must facilitate the development of port related business within the immediate vicinity of the existing port to provide a stimulus for further use of the port. Accordingly, this “do-nothing” alternative was considered to be contrary to the development objectives of NRPC and the applicable development plans.

The “do-nothing” alternative will deny the town of New Ross the opportunity to gain at an early stage, from the development of a highly technology based, environmentally sustainable business with significant potential for expansion.

At a national level if the “do-nothing” approach is adopted towards all biofuel and renewable energy developments, it is likely that Ireland will fail to meet its obligations agreed under the Kyoto Protocol.

4.3 Alternative Sites

4.3.1 Alternative Location

Finding the ideal location was seen as essential when the project was first conceived.

To be competitive, especially in Ireland, the plant must have the option of good sea access for large vessels of bulk finished products. It is anticipated that the volume of shipments will range between 1,000t and 2,500t for exportation of biodiesel. Shipments of this size will result in lower transport costs than if using road tankers.

A location close to or adjacent to a sizeable tank farm was also thought preferable to allow flexibility with storage of differing feed stocks and products.

New Ross Port was considered to be the most desirable location for the following reasons:

- Close ferry connections with the UK and the EU for importing/exporting bulk shipments if required; and its good logistical position central to sources of feed stocks from within Ireland.

- Good road access.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



- Substantial landbank and sites in close proximity to the wharf are available. - Suitably zoned and serviced lands available. - Marshmeadows already handles the import of bulk oil and therefore has the

correct facilities on the wharf. - Complimentary existing industries - both Esso and Campus Oils already

operate substantial storage facilities at Marshmeadows thus avoiding visual impacts elsewhere.

- One of Ireland’s largest logistic transport companies operates from the site. - No sensitive receptors in close proximity.

4.3.2 Alternative Sites at Marshmeadows

Two sites were considered at Marshmeadows; however the site chosen represented the best option for a number of reasons including depth to bedrock and nature of soils and subsoils present on site.

4.4 Alternative Uses of the Site

The requirements of the New Ross and Environs Development Plan, 2004 are such that the utilisation of port facilities at New Ross is considered essential.

4.5 Alternatives Considered for Cooling the Process

Two options were considered for cooling the biodiesel process; - a wet or dry cooling tower system. A dry system was eventually chosen based on its low water requirements and minimal wastewater generation characteristics even though it has a higher energy usage. The following reasons influenced the choice:

• Initially it was proposed to abstract water from the River Barrow for the purposes of cooling the process via a wet cooling tower. It was also then proposed to discharge the used water back into the river. However, this option was rejected given the relatively narrow width of the river at Marshmeadows and the proposed temperature of returned water which could potentially cause a negative impact on Annex II and Red Data Book listed fish species.

• The groundwater on site was tested (see Attachment I.5) and found to have high conductivity and therefore was unsuitable as a water source.

• The local mains supply is at capacity and would not have been increased by the time the biodiesel plant commences operations in 2008.

• The wastewater generated from a wet system (approx. 20m3) could not be accommodated in the proposed New Ross WWTP.

Therefore it was decided that a dry cooling tower down represented the best option even taking account of the higher energy requirements.

4.6 Long term Wastewater Treatment Options

Three options were considered for long term wastewater handling. Initially, it was considered given the relatively small volumes that the water could be discharged to the River Barrow, however this was rejected on the basis of the potential presence of VOCs, biocides etc. The second option to construct a wastewater treatment plant was rejected on the basis of economics and also the potential for treatment failure resulting in discharge of untreated effluent to the river. Accordingly it was determined

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



that the most feasible and environmentally acceptable option is to pump the effluent to the proposed New Ross Town WWTP.

4.7 Short term Wastewater Treatment Options

In the short term prior to the construction of the WWTP for New Ross, the only viable option, (given the small volumes) is to store and then tanker wastewater off-site for treatment. Within this option the following was considered:

1. Combine the process and domestic wastewater or separate and treat the domestic wastewater to 10/10 quality prior to discharge to the River Barrow.

Given the small volume of domestic wastewater (from 25 employees over 3 shifts) it is not considered that the volume or quality of this effluent would impact on the River Barrow. However, any system would have to be licensed and ultimately decommissioned once the plant is connected to the new WWTP for New Ross; therefore the mixing of both process and domestic waste for off-site treatment is considered the most feasible option in the short-term.

4.8 Alternative Biodiesel Production Technologies a nd Processes Considered

Biodiesel production in Europe started in the early 1990’s using mainly (99%) rapeseed oils as the raw material or feed stock. With EU support the industry grew to where it is today with over 2,000,000 tons of biodiesel being produced annually. With a reduction in EU support and increases in rapeseed oil prices other cheaper feedstocks (tallow and waste cooking oils) have become popular. However these require more specialised technology (multi-feedstock technology) to achieve the EN 14214 biodiesel standard.

Over the last number of years GBI contacted several companies regarding the production of biodiesel from tallow, waste cooking oils and rapeseed oil. Many of these companies, including Gea Westfalia (Germany), Bayer (Germany), Agrar Technique (Germany), Cimbria Sket (Germany), Lurgi (Germany) and Superior process Technologies(USA), only had experience in producing biodiesel from rapeseed oil and did not have the multi-feedstock technology required.

Only three companies claimed to have the ‘know how’ needed. These were BDI (Austria), Energea (Austria) and Biodiesel Technologies GMBH (Austria). Each of there companies were visited a number of times and their processes evaluated.

Biodiesel Technologies GMBH use modular units capable of processing 1000 litres of feedstock per hour. However GBI were not happy with either the quality of biodiesel produced or the health and safety aspects of their process.

Energea are currently building two large multi-feedstock plants – a 250,000 ton per year plant in the UK and another 50,000 ton plant in Australia. Their reference plant in Austria was visited but again the quality of the product being produced did not meet EN14214 which is the required specification.

Biodiesel International (BDI), based in Graz, Austria have been manufacturing biodiesel from waste oils and tallow for over ten years and have several reference plants in Europe. Two of these plants were visited and both were producing biodiesel to the required standard. They are currently in the process of building six new plants

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



four of which are multifeedstock. Earlier this year BDI completed a 50,000 ton multi-feedstock plant (the biggest of its kind in the world) for a company called Argent in Scotland. This plant is now running successfully and is licensed by the Scottish EPA (SEPA). It is also understood that the Scottish plant is considered BAT.

BDI is the company Green Biofuels Ireland has decided to use to provide the multi-feedstock technology for their biodiesel project.

More detailed alternatives with regard to the process in terms of chemicals used etc. will be considered in the license application to the EPA for the plant. However the process is considered BAT as stated above and as based on the Scottish experience.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56

Section 5Section 5

For in

spec

tion p

urpo

ses o

nly.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



Section Five Impacts on the Environment

5.1 Human Beings

5.1.1 Introduction

In carrying out any form of development one of the major concerns is that human beings experience no reduction in quality of life as a result of either the construction or operational phases of the development. This chapter examines the social and economic implications of the proposed scheme on human beings.

Direct impacts on human beings include such matters as air quality, water quality, noise and visual or landscape quality. Indirect impacts pertain to such matters as flora, fauna, road traffic and property values. Each impact is discussed in detail in the relevant chapters of this EIS.

The socio-economic impacts of the development are assessed in this chapter.

5.1.2 Study Assessment and Methodology

Data gathered for this study was predominantly compiled during a desk based study. Information obtained from the following sources was reviewed:

• The Central Statistics Office – data from the 2006 Census is used where available.

• Wexford County Development Plan, 2007 – 2013. • New Ross and Environs Development Plan, 2004. • Failte Ireland.

The information collected provided a useful overview of the structure of the area in terms of population, industry, employment and education.

Site visits to the study area also contributed towards identifying the socio-economic uses within the area and identifying a number of different land uses.

5.1.3 Existing Environment

New Ross Port

New Ross is located in the centre of the South East region of Ireland, comprising Wexford, Kilkenny and Waterford.

New Ross Port is the seventh largest port in Ireland behind Dublin, Limerick, Cork, Waterford, Rosslare and Foynes. Currently throughput is approximately 1,100,000 tonnes, the major portion of which is imports. Marshmeadows accounted for the handling of approximately 355,000 tonnes in 2003. Materials handled at New Ross Port include petroleum products, fertiliser, animal feed, coal and lead and zinc ore.

The recently completed improvement works to the navigation channel from the Barrow Bridge to New Ross means that the port can now handle larger ships up to 6,000 tonnes at high tides and smaller ships over a longer tidal window. The recent works have also greatly improved safety with improvements to navigation markers

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



and buoys and the realignment of the channel at Pink Point. The completion of these works presents an opportunity for the port to attract additional business in order to grow and expand the port.

Historically, the Port of New Ross has benefited from its links with an extensive inland waterway system. The river Barrow links with the Grand Canal at Athy, giving access in turn to areas from Dublin to the Shannon.

Within New Ross itself, the port has in the past acted as a catalyst for the growth of local industry.

Population and Settlement Structure

There has been a slight decline of 2.8% in the population of New Ross between 2002 and 2006. There has however been a very significant increase (75.6%) in the population of the environs of New Ross. This is consistent with the pattern of declining populations in towns of County Wexford. Table 5.1.1 describes population levels within New Ross and environs, and County Wexford. Due to an absence of large employers, New Ross has not had a high level of inward migration. However, in the future it is likely that New Ross will increase in population due to inward migration of people seeking cheaper housing than that available in Waterford.

Table 5.1.1 Population Levels within Relevant AreasPopulation Town

1996 2002 2006 % change

Wexford County 104,371 116,596 131,749 +13 New Ross Town 5,012 4,810 4,677 -2.8

Environs of New Ross 995 1,612 3,032 +88.08

Age Profile The age profile for New Ross in the year 2006 is shown in Table 5.1.2.

Table 5.1.2 Persons Classified by Age Group, New Ro ss, County Wexford, 2006

Age Group (Years) Area Total 0-14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65+

New Ross 7,7,09 1,560 1220 2494 1630 805 % Total 20.2 15.8 32.4 21.2 10.4 % for County Wexford 22.2 13.3 30.3 22.6 11.6

Source: 2006 Census

New Ross has a young age profile, 36% of the population is under 25 years of age and 68.4% are under 45 years of age.

Local Economy and Employment The most recent comprehensive data for New Ross and Wexford as a whole comes from the CSO Census of Population, 2002 (2006 figures not available for this category).

Table 5.1.3 describes the employment statistics for New Ross and County Wexford in 2002.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



Table 5.1.3 Total Persons aged 15 years and over– Classified by Socio-Economic Group – County Wexford

Socio-Economic Group

New Ross Town Wexford Town Wexford County

Number % Total % Total % Total At work 2395 47% 51% 50% Looking for first regular job

91 2% 1% 1%

Unemployed 382 8% 7% 5% Student 439 9% 8% 9% Home Duties 829 16% 14% 17% Retired 571 11% 12% 12% Unable to work due to permanent sickness or Disability

273 5% 6% 5%

Other 125 2% 1% 1% Total 5105

Source: CSO 2002 Volume 6 - Occupations

Table 5.1.3 outlines the employment and unemployment statistics for New Ross and County Wexford for 2002. According to the table, the rate of unemployment for New Ross, at 8%, was higher than the rate for County Wexford as a whole (5%).

5.1.4 Characteristics and Impacts of the Proposed D evelopment

Local Economy and Employment During the construction phase of the proposed biodiesel plant it is envisaged that approximately 20 full time jobs will be created, resulting in a locally positive impact in terms of employment generation.

It is anticipated that up to 20 full time jobs will be created by the development of the biodiesel plant. This will have a positive effect on the local economy. The development will also indirectly give rise to positive downstream effects on employment and at least 20 further jobs will be created in the supply chain. The development will form an element of the continued economic growth of New Ross and the south east region and will also serve to maintain existing employment at the port. Given the absence of large employers in the area it is considered imperative that new employers are brought to the area and existing operations such as the port are maintained and competitiveness achieved. In addition, the proposal will provide opportunities for local farmers to replace lost or dwindling revenue by switching from cereal and sugar beet crops to rapeseed.

5.1.5 Mitigation Factors and/or Measures

Reductive and remedial measures and/or factors relevant to impacts on human beings in terms of air, noise, odour traffic and amenity are listed within the appropriate chapter of this EIS.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



5.1.6 Residual Impact

The residual impact is the same as that described under Section 5.1.4 above.

5.1.7 Interaction with other Environmental Attribut es

Socio-economic impacts will interact with:

• Noise: Chapter 5.8 addresses the predicted noise impact on nearby residents during the construction and operational phases of this project.

• Air: Chapter 5.6 addresses the impact on local ambient air quality and thus impact on human beings.

• Visual: Chapter 5.9 addresses the impact on visual amenity and mitigation measures proposed for same.

• Road Traffic: The impact of road traffic generation on the existing local network is described in Chapter 5.11.

5.1.8 Monitoring

Not applicable.

5.1.9 Reinstatement

Not applicable.

5.1.10 Difficulties Encountered in Compiling this I nformation

No difficulties were encountered.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



5.2 Flora and Fauna and Fisheries

5.2.1 Introduction

This chapter examines the flora and fauna of the site and immediate surrounding area and examines the likely impacts of the development upon the flora and fauna elements of the receiving environment and discusses the mitigation measures to be employed to minimise the impact.

Biospheres Environmental Services Ltd. prepared an assessment of the terrestrial ecological interests of the site and immediate surrounding area; the report is contained within Appendix D. Mr. Ger Morgan prepared a letter report in 2006 reviewing the assessment of impacts on the aquatic environment. Similarly consultations were carried out in 2006 with the SRFB. Both letters/correspondence are contained within Appendices D1 and D2 respectively. As set out in the planning history (page 1 of this EIS), the recent changes proposed in the elevations and tank farm arrangement have resulted in no change to the flora and fauna assessments prepared or findings of consultations carried out in the past. Also, as explained in the planning history, the baseline information reflects the site status in 2005 and therefore represents a worse case scenario.


A field survey of the site and its environs was carried out in October 2005. The survey methodology consisted of systematically walking the site area and recording habitats, vegetation types and plant species present. Where appropriate, habitat classification is according to the system recommended by The Heritage Council. Notes were made on bird species present within and around the site. For mammals, the main emphasis was on search for signs of activity or dwellings. During the survey, particular attention was given to the possible presence of habitats and/or species which are legally protected under Irish or European legislation (especially the Flora Protection Order 1999; Wildlife Act 1976; Wildlife Amendment Act 2000; EU Habitats Directive; EU Birds Directive).

The standard literature was checked for references to the site and locality, as were the listings and maps of sites of conservation importance in County Wexford held by National Parks & Wildlife Service of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

The information contained within the EIS prepared by Malone O’ Regan for the NRPC in December 2004 for a proposed wharf at Marshmeadows was reviewed when compiling this chapter of the EIS.


Site Description The site for the proposed plant lies along the R733 to the east of the river and approximately 1.75 kilometres south of the bridge at New Ross. There is a wharf at the river bank to accommodate shipping. Much of the land in the general area has been infilled or altered by earthworks

The proposed Biodiesel plant would be situated immediately off the R733 and just south of the access road to the complex. It is within a larger plot of unmanaged

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



ground. A drainage channel occurs to the south of the larger plot and then there are fields of pasture grassland.

Terrestrial Habitats, Vegetation and Flora The habitats present within the site are described below.

The area of the site for the biodiesel plant is infilled ground. The previous landuse had probably been pasture grassland. The general aspect (in 2005) is of disturbed and weedy ground with no natural vegetation occurring. As is usually found with such areas, there is a mixture of many different plant elements and in the present case this consists of species of grassland, disturbance, weeds, encroaching scrub, and the occasional species of wetland. It is difficult to ascribe the vegetation or habitats here to any one category and it can best be viewed as having a mixture of Recolonising bare ground ED3, Dry meadows and grass y verges GS2, and early phase Scrub WS1 . Part of the grassland element could be assigned to the Wet grassland GS4 category, reflecting the waterlogged ground conditions in some parts.

The grassland category is represented by such species as false oat grass Arrhenatherum elatius, creeping bent Agrostis stolonifera, meadow buttercup Ranunculus acris, wild carrot Daucus carota, bush vetch Vicia sepium, meadow vetchling Lathyrus pratensis, black medick Medicago lupulina, ribwort plantainPlantago lanceolata, red and white clover Trifolium pratense, T. repens, silverweed Potentilla anserina and daisy Bellis perennis. A weedy element occurs throughout, mostly of creeping thistle Cirsium arvense, cut-leaved cranesbill Geranium dissectum, mugwort Artemisia vulgaris, teasel Dipsacus fullonum, ragwort Senecio jacobaea and nettle Urtica dioica. Where the ground is damp (and waterlogged at time of survey), rushes occur, both hard rush Juncus inflexus and soft rush Juncus effusus. These are especially prevalent in the southern part of site and the habitat is close to wet grassland. A patch of bulrushes Typha latifolia and some reed canary grass Phalaris arundinacea occur in the low-lying area along the eastern boundary.

Scrub is encroaching throughout the site. This is mainly gorse Ulex europaeus and willow Salix spp. A large clump of butterfly-bush Buddleja davidii occurs in the southern sector. Along the eastern boundary (at the road) there is a concrete fence that is heavily overgrown with brambles Rubus fruticosus. A single ash Fraxinus excelsior tree occurs along the boundary fence, along with several medium sized willows.

Terrestrial Fauna

The low habitat diversity within the site results in a very poor mammalian fauna. Brown rat Rattus norvegicus is present in the general area, whilst pygmy shrew Sorex minutus and long-tailed field mouse Apodemus sylvaticus, both ubiquitous Irish mammals, are almost certainly present. Signs of fox Vulpes vulpes were noted at several locations. While otter Lutra lutra is fairly widespread on the Barrow, the site provides unsuitable habitat and animals would not be expected to visit the area. There is no roosting or foraging potential for bats within the site.

The weedy character of the site provides useful feeding for a range of seed eating birds. On the day of survey, chaffinches Fringilla coeleb and goldfinches Carduelis carduelis were present. Other species, such as linnet Carduelis cannabina and greenfinches Carduelis chloris would be expected. Several meadow pipits Anthus pratensis were recorded in the more open grassy areas. Other species present were

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:56



wren Troglodytes troglodytes and blackbird Turdus merula. A snipe Gallinago gallinago was flushed from an area of rushes. While not recorded, stonechat Saxicola torquata could occur amongst the gorse scrub.

Conservation Designations

The site is located some 350m east of the boundary of the River Barrow and River Nore candidate Special Area for Conservation (site code 02162). The area within the river is also a proposed Natural Heritage Area.

The cSAC designation is made on the basis of multiple habitats and species listed in Annex I and Annex II respectively of the EU Habitats Directive (see attached Site Synopsis in Appendix D, Appendix 1). The listed habitats relevant to the general area of the site are as follows:

• Estuaries (Natura code 1130)

• Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide (Natura code 1140)

The listed Annex II species relevant to the study area and surrounds are as follows:

1. Otter Lutra lutra;2. Twaite Shad Alosa fallax fallax; 3. Allis Shad (Alosa alosa);4. Two species of lamprey; the Sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus and the River

lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis, and5. Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar.

The Red Data Book species Smelt Osmerus eperlanus is also of relevance to the study area.

At this point in the Estuary, the River Barrow is an important migration route for protected fish species and these would be expected to pass by Marshmeadows within the water column.

Commercial Fishing

The large numbers of salmon (also an Annex II species) which pass up the Barrow/Nore system are fished commercially by licensed snap net fishermen. Snap netting has long been practised in the estuaries of the south east, particularly on the Suir and Barrow/Nore Rivers. It requires teams of two fishermen each in a small flat-bottomed boat (a cot), between which a net is strung and the salmon are fished as the boats drift on the ebb and flood tides. The Waterford district has 132 snap-net licences and in this section of the river about 10 cots (i.e. 5 snap net licences) fish the river. In 2004, the snap-netting season was from May 12th to August 15th, during which period fishing is roughly permitted from Monday/Tuesday to Friday.

According to the Southern Regional Fisheries Board, two Eel Baited Basket licences are issued in the New Ross area of the Waterford District. Local fishermen indicate that only one of these operates in the Marshmeadows area. The eel-fishing season stretches from April to November each year.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57




Terrestrial Habitats, Flora and Fauna

There are no habitats, vegetation, or plant species of conservation significance within this site as it does not contain any stands of natural or semi-natural vegetation. Overall the site can be considered artificial and highly disturbed as it has been derived from infilling. The species mix has been originated from the dumping of material, from the natural invasion of coarse and weedy species and from scrub invasion. As it contains such a mixture, it is impossible to categorise the vegetation into one category, containing as it does elements of several. There are no protected, rare or threatened species of flora found within this site.

From the perspective of terrestrial ecology, it is considered that no significant negative impacts will accrue from the construction of the proposed biodiesel plant as there is nothing of conservation importance in the area to be affected. The existing diversity of small mammal and bird species will still occur in the immediate locality including those parts of the site which are not developed.

Listed Fish Species

Construction Phase

The development is not likely to impact on the River Barrow and River Nore cSAC, as there is a distance of approx. 350m between the two areas and the area between is further infilled ground or developed land. There are no visible conduits/channels from the site to the river.

Operational Phase

Biodiesel, its raw materials and intermediaries can contaminate surface waters if these compounds or their breakdown products entered the surface water drainage system and found their way to the River Barrow either during normal operations or during an emergency scenario. While biodiesel is a fully biodegradable material that is less harmful and less persistent in aquatic environments than mineral oil derived fuels it can still have short term adverse environmental impacts on birds, fish and invertebrates if present in sufficient quantity. These adverse impacts can occur as a result of degradation of the biodiesel by natural processes within water bodies. Proposed mitigation measures with regard to both normal and emergency scenarios are listed below.

Commercial Fisheries

The potential impacts on commercial fish species are the same as those listed above under listed species. In addition it should be noted that there will be no significant increased ship movements which could affect fishing downtime as a result of the proposed development (i.e. export of biodiesel for further refining).


Specific mitigation measures are not required for the terrestrial ecological interests within this site owing to their low conservation value. However the following apply with regard to the aquatic environment:

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



Construction Phase

It is considered that specific measures relating to the cSAC are not required as the development would not have any impacts on that site of conservation importance during the construction phase given the intervening distance. However the following guidelines will be utilised to minimise any possible impact the construction phase may have on the local aquatic environment.

General

CIRIA Publication C584 – Coastal and Marine Environmental Site Guide - will be used as a reference document for protection of water quality and in turn aquatic life, during the construction phase of the development. In addition, CIRIA C532 – Control of Water Pollution from Construction, Guidance for Consultants and Contractors will be used. All construction works will be completed in line with the recommendations of this publication and this will serve to mitigate against any pollution occurring. The following measures taken from the Guidance documents will typically be implemented:

Stockpiling/Control of Silt-laden Run-off

Stockpiling of excavated material is not likely to occur on site.

Silt traps will be used on temporary surface water run-off points to reduce the discharge of silt from the site.

Oil Storage/Refuelling

• All oil stored on site for construction vehicles will be kept in a locked and bunded area and the drainage or overflow from the bund will be directed to a petrol interceptor.

• Generators, pumps and similar plant will be placed on drip-trays to prevent contamination by oil.

• All re-fuelling will take place well away from watercourses. • All site vehicles used will be refuelled in bunded areas. • All temporary construction fuel tanks will also be located in a suitably bunded

area and all tanks will be double skinned. In addition, oil absorbent materials will be kept on site in close proximity to any fuel storage tanks or bowsers during site development works.

• The standing area adjacent to the oil storage tank will be constructed with falls to an interceptor, before outfall.

• Interceptors will be monitored on a regular basis to ensure that they are working correctly.

• Monitoring of the outfall for odour, colour and visual appearance will be carried out.

• All deliveries to on-site oil storage tanks will be supervised. • Records will be kept of delivery dates and volumes. • All tank bunds will have a capacity of tank volume plus 10 percent at a

minimum. • Steel tanks will be protected from corrosion.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



• Waste oil will be stored in a bunded facility and will be collected regularly for disposal by a licensed waste contractor. All waste oil quantities disposed of will be recorded and certs of disposal retained on file.

• A procedure will be drawn up which will be adhered to during refuelling of on-site vehicles. This will include the following:

� Fuel will be delivered to plant on site by dedicated tanker or in a delivery bowser dedicated to that purpose.

� In the case of a bowser, the driver or supervising foreman will check the delivery bowser daily for leakage.

� The driver will be issued with, and will carry at all times, absorbent sheets and granules to collect any spillages that may accidentally occur.

� Where the nozzle of a fuel pump can not be placed into the tank of a machine then a funnel will be used.

� Each area of work will have a designated fuelling area, which shall be as far as practicable from the River. Section foremen shall identify these areas to their plant operatives.

� All mobile plant, such as excavators, dumpers etc shall be refuelled at least 20m from any adjacent watercourse.

� Large plant such as cranes and piling rigs shall be tracked to the edge of their platform farthest from the river before refuelling.

• Every piece of equipment associated with the storage of fuel on site will be designed and installed to recognised BS codes.

• All valves should be of steel construction and the open and close positions should be clearly marked.

• Rainwater will be removed from bunds which will incorporate sump to facilitate this.

• Publications such as PPG - Above Ground Storage Tanks will be used as Guidance in addition to the above.

Cement Handling During Construction

The tendering process will determine the extent of pre-cast and poured concrete which will be used during the construction of the biodiesel process building. No mixing of concrete will be carried out on site. The measures detailed below will be employed where poured concrete is being used in the construction process.

The production, transport and placement of all cementitious materials will be strictly planned and supervised. Site batching/production of concrete will not be carried out on site and therefore these aspects will not pose a risk to the river.

With regard to measures to be taken where cast in place concrete is to be used the following measures will be put in place:

• Placing of Concrete -

� All concrete pours will be planned. � Washing out of plant and equipment will occur in agreed wash-out areas. � Any spillages will be cleaned up and disposed of correctly. � Where concrete is to be placed by means of a skip, the opening gate of

the delivery chute will be securely fastened to prevent accidental opening.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



� Where possible, concrete skips, pumps and machine buckets will be prevented from slewing over temporary drains when placing concrete.

� Surplus concrete will be returned to batch plant after completion of a pour.

Operational Phase

Any emissions during the operational phase of the development will be controlled by the EPA through licensing of the activity. Sections 3.2.3 and 3.3 of this EIS describe the drainage system and technical standards and safety and environmental considerations respectively. To summarise, it can be stated that:

• Wastewater will be directed to the proposed New Ross and Environs WWTP once built. However if the WWTP is not operational then it is proposed to collect and store the domestic and process wastewater including wastewater from auxiliary processes on site and then tanker it off-site for treatment. Accordingly there will be no impact on the river arising from discharge of process wastewater.

• Surface water run-off from the site will be directed via an attenuation tank and an oil/petrol interceptor to the river. pH and TOC meters connected to automatic shut-off valves will be placed on the final discharge post interceptor.

• Provision will be made for high risk areas to be shut off from the surface drainage system during risk activities such as loading and unloading.

• Surface water discharges will comply with the surface water Environmental Quality Standards (EQSs).

• All tanks will be constructed of suitably robust materials and will be bunded and managed in accordance with the requirements of the IPPC Guidance Note on Storage and Transfer of Materials for Scheduled Activities.

• All new drainage pipelines will be in accordance with BS 8000:1989 Part 14, BS 8010: Code of Practice for Pipelines and BS 8301:1985 Code of practice for Building Drainage.

Emergency Scenario

The site is designed with an upstand kerb, a concrete sump in the process building, along with on-site underground surface water attenuation tank, and tank bunding as discussed in Section 3.2.3. In the event of a fire or spill, there is adequate capacity within the site to retain spillages and/or firewater. A shutoff valve will be in place to prevent discharge to the river and to the New Ross and Environs WWTP. An emergency plan will be drawn up for the site, taking account of environmental considerations. The firewater retention capacity on site has been determined in accordance with the Fire-Water Retention Facilities (Draft) Guidance Note to Industry on the Requirements for Firewater Retention Facilities published by the EPA.


Terrestrial Ecology

This site comprised (2005) a mosaic of habitats characteristic of disturbed ground – these are Re-colonising bare ground ED3, Dry meadows and grassy verges GS2, and early phase Scrub WS1. Part of the grassland element could be assigned to the Wet grassland GS4 category. None of the habitats or associated plant species are of conservation value. There are no species of fauna of particular conservation importance occurring within the site. Owing to the low existing ecological conditions

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



at the site, it is considered that there will be no significant negative impacts on the existing ecological conditions within the site or in adjoining areas.

Aquatic Ecology

The River Barrow is a candidate Special Area of Conservation but is separated from the proposed biodiesel site by approx. 350 m, therefore the construction phase is unlikely to affect the aquatic environment. The development is unlikely to have any impacts on the nearby cSAC, aquatic habitats, listed fish species or commercial fisheries given the mitigation measures to be employed during the operational phase of the development. Correspondence indicating agreement has been received in this regard from the SRFB.


Water Quality: Deterioration in water quality has a direct impact aquatic species. The mitigation measures listed in Section 5.2.5 are therefore also applicable to maintenance of water quality.

5.2.8 Monitoring

Construction Phase A designated person within the construction team will have overall responsibility for ensuring that the construction is carried out in such a way as to minimise possible pollution of the receiving waters. This person will also have the responsibility of monitoring the performance of any pollution control measures adopted.

Operational Phase The monitoring requirements of the IPPCL will be complied with during the operational phase of the development.

5.2.9 Reinstatement

Not applicable.


No limitations are associated with the habitat and vegetation survey as it was carried out within the optimum period for botanical survey. No significant limitations are associated with the fauna survey, as few species are expected in the habitats present. While a survey for wintering birds was not conducted, this is not considered a limitation as the site would not provide habitat for any species of conservation interest. Overall, no significant difficulties were encountered in compiling information on the flora and fauna of the study area.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



5.3 Soils, Sediment and Geology

5.3.1 Introduction

This chapter examines the type of soils, sediment and geology likely to be encountered on the site and in the general area. It also addresses the impact of the proposed development on sediments, soils and geology and any remedial measures that will be employed to eliminate or reduce these impacts.


A desk based study of the site was conducted which involved reviewing available geotechnical information held by the GSI on the site and surrounding lands. A geotechnical survey was also carried out on the site. The following sources were reviewed:

• Published Ordnance Survey mapping to assess the surface topography and landforms.

• Published geological maps of Wexford to determine the underlying bedrock geology.

• Soils Map of Ireland.• Published subsoils (Quaternary) Geology map of Wexford.• Geology of South Wexford – GSI Publication.

Borehole records for the site are contained within Appendix E.


Consolidated Geology The proposed development site lies within the variably metamorphosed Lower Palaeozoic succession of south-east Ireland, immediately south of the Leinster Granite Massif. A major “synclinorium” is the dominant geological structural feature of the region. A series of sedimentary rocks comprises the limbs of the structure whilst a NE-trending volcano-sedimentary belt defines the axial zone. The area of the proposed development is underlain by the Ordovician rocks of the Ribband and Duncannon Groups.

In the section of river from New Ross to the Piltown Quay, the solid geology chiefly consists of shales, siltstones and sandstones of the Ribband group which are characterised by their various colourations. The solid geology at Marshmeadows itself comprises the Oaklands Formation of green, red-purple, buff slate and siltstone.To the south from Piltown Quay to Ballyhack and beyond, the solid geology is dominated by intermediate to felsic volcanics, tuffs and sediments of the Duncannon Group. A series of ENE to NE -trending gabbroic and dolorite sills and dykes which intrudes the majority of rock types in the region is reported to be broadly contemporaneous with the volcanic rocks of the Duncannon Group.

According to unpublished geological fieldslips (scale 1:25,000), supplied by the Geological Survey of Ireland, (GSI), there are several stretches of the river where areas of residual rocks are exposed in the river channel, (or were exposed at the time of the original geological survey in the 1800s). In addition, there are strong

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



indications, especially where dolerite and gabbroic dykes traverse the river that residual rock bars occur at shallow depths beneath the river sediments.

The three principal rivers in the Suir Barrow Nore estuary rise close together in the Silurian Rocks of the Slieve Bloom mountains and follow different courses through the Old Red Sandstones at first, and then carboniferous limestone before they empty into the estuary.

Geologically, the estuary is younger at the seaward end, with Old Red sandstones at Dunmore East and carboniferous conglomerates and limestones at Hook Head.

The bedrock geology in the region is mantled by Quaternary glacial till deposits of probable Midlandian age. Closer to the river, large pockets of limestone gravels are encountered. From the available data, it is ascertained that the present river channel contains a stratified sequence, up to 15 m thick, of recent silt, sand and gravel deposits.

Figure 6 illustrates the regional geology.

Sediments

Throughout the Barrow estuary, the bedrock tends to be covered with glacial sediments of varying thickness. Both the fresh water in the river and the sediment tends to be influenced by the terrain through which the rivers pass, the softer sandstones and limestones having most influence. Many major tributaries flow through areas of poorly sorted sands and gravels where the mineral content can be leached out.

Geotechnical Investigation

The site (2005) mainly comprised an uneven layer of clean fill material varying in depths up to 1m bgl underlain by a 1m layer of slightly sandy gravelly clay followed by silt and peat layers up to 18m bgl followed by some gravel/sand/cobble layers. Bedrock was not encountered at depths to 24m below ground. Two boreholes were drilled on site. The logs and location map are contained within Appendix E.

5.3.4 Characteristics and Impacts of the Proposal

Construction Phase

The proposal comprises the development of an existing filled site. Site works will involve using existing fill material on site and boring of piles to support the new tank farm and process building. Blasting or excavation into the bedrock surface will not be required. Therefore, no impacts on the underlying geology are expected during the construction or operational phases. There will be no drilling into bedrock. It is not envisaged that stockpiling of soils will be required.

The potential impacts of the development on soils and sediment during the construction phase are identified as follows:

• Contamination of soils and underlying sediment by waste oil and/or chemical run-off used during the construction phase of the development.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



However, these impacts are unlikely to occur considering the mitigation measures listed under Section 5.3.5 below.

Operational Phase

There will be no emissions to ground arising from the proposed activity. Any emissions (surface, foul etc) during the operational phase of the development will be controlled by the EPA through licensing of the activity. Nevertheless, typical mitigation measures are described under Section 5.3.5 below.


Mitigation measures and/or factors described under Aquatic Flora and Fauna and Fisheries - Section 5.2.5 for the control and handling of oil during the construction phase and the design of drainage systems for the operational phase are equally applicable to the control of pollution of soils and sediment. The biodiesel process plant, tank farm, loading/unloading and parking areas will all be covered in concrete hardstand. Accordingly there will be no emissions to the underlying soil and sediment. In an emergency scenario the firewater generated will be held within the hardstand area.


The mitigation measures referenced above will ensure that there is no residual impact on soils and sediment arising from the proposed development during both the construction and operational phases of development.

5.4.7 Interactions with Other Environmental Attribu tes

Water Quality/Aquatic Flora and Fauna: Impact on soils and sediment can indirectly impact on water quality. The mitigation measures referenced above are therefore also applicable to maintenance of water quality.

5.4.8 Monitoring

Construction Phase

A designated person within the construction team will have overall responsibility for ensuring that the construction is carried out in such a way as to minimise possible pollution of soils. This person will also have the responsibility of monitoring the performance of any pollution control measures adopted.

Operational Phase

The IPPCL monitoring requirements will be complied with during the operational phase of the development.

5.4.9 Reinstatement

Not applicable.



For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



5.4 Surface Water Quality

5.4.1 Introduction

This chapter describes the existing surface water regime and examines the impact of the development on surface water in terms of quality during both the construction and long term phases of development. Mitigation measures to be employed to minimise the impact of the development on surface water are also identified where applicable.


A desk-based study of the relevant documentation was undertaken, which involved the review of the following:

• EPA: Water Quality in the Suir/Barrow/Nore Estuary and Waterford Harbour - 2005.

5.4.3 Receiving Environment

The most recent statistics of water quality for the River Barrow were published by the EPA in December 2005 in the report entitled “Water Quality in the Suir/Barrow/Nore Estuary and Waterford Harbour - 2005”. The main conclusions relating to the water quality of the River Barrow were as follows:

• Elevated coliform bacteria levels were noted at New Ross Bridge where counts are high at times, notably at high tide.

• Moderate increases in ammonia and orthophosphate occur downstream of New Ross in the lower Barrow Estuary with lower level concentrations upstream of New Ross at Mountgarret Bridge.

• The river exceeds the strict criterion applied by the EPA for nitrate in freshwaters discharging to estuaries. This is reflected in the elevated nitrate concentrations at New Ross Bridge (max. 4.2 mg/l N) and generally in the upper Estuary of the Barrow.

• Elevated chlorophyll ‘a’ levels, with limits exceeded at New Ross Bridge, indicate that the Barrow Estuary is moderately eutrophic.

• Overall, water samples taken show that water quality is mediocre in the Barrow Estuary in 2005.

Table 5.4.1 is a comparison of the water quality statistics of the River Barrow at New Ross Bridge with the water quality standards for the Estuary, as outlined in the 2005 report prepared by the EPA. The EPA report concluded that water quality is generally mediocre in the Barrow Estuary. The River Barrow also exceeds the strict criterion applied by the EPA in relation to nitrate concentration in freshwaters discharging to estuaries.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



Table 5.4.1 Comparison of the River Barrow Monitori ng Results 2003 (at New Ross Bridge) with the Guide Limits set for the Estu ary within the 2005 EPA Report

Parameter Units Standards River Barrow at New Ross Bridge*

Average Temperature

0 C <21.5 16.8 – 19.9°C

Dissolved O 2 % saturation >70% mandatory for shellfish areas 70-120% Bathing Areas

76 - 121

BOD Mg/l O2 95%<4 1.7 – 3.0 pH 6.5-8.5 8.1 - 8.5 Total Ammonia mg/l N 95%<0.8 mandatory - 0.01 – 0.04 Un-ionised Ammonia

mg/l NH3 95%<0.02 mandatory -0.0006 – 0.0046

Nitrate mg/l N 95%<1.0 Guideline for Outer Estuary

2.9 – 4.2

o-phosphate mg/l P - 0.02 - 0.06 chlorophyll mg/l - 12.0 – 35.4 Total Coliforms /100 ml 80%<5,000 Bathing Areas 3106 - 18416 Faecal Coliforms

/100 ml 75%<300 Shellfish Waters 80%<1000 Bathing Areas

146 - 2666

*Sampled in June, July and September 2005, min and max values from 6 samples listed.


The development at Marshmeadows has the potential to impact on surface water during both the construction and the operational phases.

Construction Phase

Potential impacts of the development on water quality can arise during the construction phase from the incorrect management of waste oil, cement and surface water run-off containing silt. There are no existing drainage ditches on the site and the River Barrow is approx. 350m west. Nevertheless, the mitigation measures referenced under Section 5.4.5 below will minimise the risks in this regard.

Operational Phase

Biodiesel, its raw materials and intermediaries can contaminate surface waters if these compounds entered the surface water drainage system and found their way to the River Barrow either during normal operations or during an emergency scenario. While biodiesel is a fully biodegradable material that is less harmful and less persistent in aquatic environments than mineral oil derived fuels it can have adverse short term environmental impacts on birds, fish and invertebrates if present in sufficient quantity. These adverse impacts can occur as a result of degradation of the biodiesel by natural processes within water bodies.

Any emissions during the operational phase of the development will be controlled through the monitoring requirements of the IPPCL. Nevertheless, typical mitigation measures are described under Section 5.4.5 below.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



Flooding

The surface water drainage system has been designed to include for attenuation of non-emergency surface water run-off. This is mainly to provide further attenuation on site should a spill occur and is not specifically for flood alleviation. It should be noted that the existing site is not prone to flooding as it consists of made ground on a former flood plain. It is not connected in any direct way to the River Barrow via surface water drainage ditches or drains and is set well back from the river. There is not record of recent flooding at the Marshmeadows area due to reclamation works carried out there historically. The Marshmeadows area no longer serves as part of the River Barrow floodplain.

Notwithstanding the above, the finished ground floor levels of the buildings will be 500mm above the maximum river levels recorded by New Ross Port Company.

Flooding within New Ross town is due to a number of factors such as tidal surge and/or flash downpours and in this context the run-off from the site is insignificant and would not contribute to flooding in the town.


Mitigation measures and/or factors described under Aquatic Flora and Fauna and Fisheries - Section 5.2.5 during both the construction and operational phase are equally applicable to the protection of water quality.


The mitigation measures referenced above will ensure that there is no residual impact on the surface water arising from the proposed development during both the construction and operational (under both normal and emergency conditions) phases.


• Aquatic fauna, fisheries and the River Barrow cSAC: Reduced water quality can negatively impact on aquatic fauna and fisheries. Chapter 5.2 describes the impact of the development on aquatic flora and fauna.

5.4.8 Monitoring

Facilities will be provided for taking samples of treated surface water and treated effluent prior to discharge to the river and the sewer respectively. Monitoring will be carried out as per the conditions of licensing.

5.4.9 Reinstatement

Not applicable.

5.4.10 Difficulties Encountered in Compiling this I nformation No difficulties were encountered in compiling this information.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



5.5 Hydrogeology

5.5.1 Introduction

This chapter describes the existing hydrogeological regime and examines the impact of the development on groundwater in terms of quality during both the construction and long term phases of development. Mitigation measures to be employed to minimise the impact of the development on groundwater are also identified where applicable.


A desk based study of the site was conducted which involved reviewing available geotechnical information held by the GSI on the site and surrounding lands. A geotechnical survey was not carried out on the site. The following sources were reviewed:

• Published Ordnance Survey mapping to assess the surface topography and landforms.

• Published geological maps of Wexford to determine the underlying bedrock geology

• Soils Map of Ireland.• Aquifer Maps.• Published subsoils (Quaternary) Geology map of Wexford.• Geology of South Wexford – GSI Publication

5.5.3 Receiving Environment

Groundwater

The underlying geology of the Barrow Estuary valley is described in Section 5.3.3.

The Ordovician rocks of the Ribband Group are considered to be aquitards, having little groundwater potential as high yielding water supplies. Locally high yielding wells can be developed in areas where the rock has been weathered and/or faulted.

The volcanic rocks of the Duncannon Group are considered to be a major aquifer. The rhyolites (volcanics) are extensively faulted and are very permeable. In areas where the extent of the rhyolite is limited, the storage within the aquifer is also limited. This aquifer has been developed as a public water supply in areas to the north of the Barrow.

The groundwater underlying the site is not used in the immediate area as a potable water supply; hence there are no sensitive receptors which could be impacted on in the event of pollution of groundwater occurring as a result of the biodiesel manufacturing operation.

In addition, it should be noted that the existing groundwater is above the Interim Groundwater Values (IGV) for iron, manganese, conductivity and hardness. It is likely that there is ingress from the river which is tidal adjacent to the site.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57




Construction Phase

Potential impacts of the development on groundwater quality can arise during the construction phase from the incorrect management of waste oil, cement and contaminated surface water run-off. The mitigation measures referenced under Section 5.5.5 below will minimise the risks in this regard.

Operational Phase

Groundwater abstraction will not occur as part of the proposed development.

During the operational phase, groundwater contamination can potentially occur from the entry of polluted materials such as contaminated runoff, untreated effluent and the entry of incorrectly stored and handled materials such as raw materials and products. The mitigation measures referenced under Section 5.5.5 will minimise the risks in this regard.


Mitigation measures and/or factors described under Aquatic Flora and Fauna and Fisheries - Section 5.2.5 during both the construction and operational phase are equally applicable to the protection of groundwater quality.


The mitigation measures referenced above will ensure that there is no residual impact on groundwater arising from the proposed development during the construction or operational phase of development.


Groundwater/Surface water/Aquatic ecology: Groundwater is a component of the hydrological cycle and therefore interacts with surface water and the aquatic environment.

5.5.8 Monitoring

Monitoring will be carried out as per the requirements of the EPA.

5.5.9 Reinstatement

Not applicable.

5.5.10 Difficulties Encountered in Compiling this I nformation No difficulties were encountered in compiling this information.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



5.6 Air Quality and Odour

5.6.1 Introduction

The objective of this chapter is to examine the existing air quality in the vicinity of the proposed development, to consider the potential of the proposed biodiesel plant to affect the air quality and, where possible, to mitigate against any potential impact.


The assessment of the impact of the proposed biodiesel plant on air quality carried out was desk-based. The existing environment is described taking account of literature sources such as the EPA publication ‘Air Quality in Ireland (Key Indicators of Ambient Air Quality) –Annual Report 2005’.

Stack Height Determination

The HMIP publication “Technical Guidance Note (DISPERSION) [D1]” has been employed to determine the preliminary requisite stack heights for the boiler and process discharges to atmosphere.

Appendix F contains a copy of the calculations conducted by Dr. B. Acton.


Air Quality

Assessment of the significance of a particular level of pollution is made with reference to AQSs. AQSs are predominantly based on the effects of pollutants on human health, though other factors such as the effect on vegetation are sometimes taken into account.

The Air Quality Standards Regulations, 2002 (S.I. No. 271 of 2002) deal with particulates, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide and benzene. These regulations are based on EU Directives 1999/30/EC and 2000/69/EC and are set out in Table 5.6.1 below.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



Table 5.6.1 Air Quality Standards Regulations 2002 (SI 271 of 2002)

Reference Period For the protection of

Number of times in one year not to be exceeded

Equivalent Percentile

Ultimate Air Quality Standard µµµµg/m 3 (1)

Sulphur Dioxide Hourly limit value Human health 24 99.73 350 Daily limit value Human health 3 99.18 125 Annual Limit Value Vegetation 0 n.a. 20 Nitrogen Oxides Hourly limit value Human health 18 99.79 200 Annual limit value Human health 0 n.a 40 Annual Limit Value Vegetation 0 n.a. 30 Particulate Matter 24-hr limit value Human health 32 (2) 90.41 (2) 50 (2) 24-hr limit value Human health 7 (3) 98.08 (3) 50 (3) Annual limit value Human health 0 n.a. 20 (4) Lead Annual limit value Human health 0 n.a. 0.5 Benzene Annual limit value Human health 0 n.a. 5 Carbon Monoxide 8-hr limit value Human health 0 n.a. 10,000

Notes: (1) To be complied with by 1 January, 2010, (2) until 2005, (3) from 2005, (4) 40 µg/m3 until 2005.

The area at Marshmeadows and New Ross town falls within Zone D as designated in the EPA publication ‘Air Quality in Ireland (Key Indicators of Ambient Air Quality) –Annual Report 2005’. Zone D represents all areas of Ireland excluding Dublin and Cork Cities and Environs and 16 urban areas with a population greater than 15,000. Zone D in effect represents rural Ireland and includes all towns with a population less than 15,000. The designated zones have been defined to meet the criteria for air quality monitoring and assessment and management as defined in the Framework Directive and Daughter Air Quality Directives. The EPA carries out mobile monitoring in Zone D (as there are no continuous monitoring stations present) for the following parameters:

• Sulphur dioxide • Particulate matter • Nitrogen oxides • Lead • Carbon monoxide • Benzene

The summary results for Zone D with relation to each parameter listed above are as follows:

• Sulphur Dioxide – The values for Sulphur Dioxide concentrations measured in 2005 were very low relative to the limit values and were in compliance with the Irish Air Quality standards during the 2005 monitoring period. Concentrations measured annual (winter/spring) medians well below 20 µg/m3 and relatively very low hourly and daily limits of 0 µg/m3 and 0 µg/m3

for all zones. Monitoring of sulphur dioxide levels was carried out at Shannon Estuary, Mountrath and Kilkitt for Zone D. Maximum hourly concentrations

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



recorded at the three sites were 82, 22 and 10 µg/m3 respectively. The mean at the three sites was 3, 4 and 5 µg/m3 respectively.

• Particulate Matter PM 10 – Directive 1999/30/EC establishes Stage 1 and Stage 2 limit values for PM10 mass concentrations to be attained by 2005 and 2010 respectively. The Stage 1 limit in respect of daily means is 50 µg/m3 not to be exceeded more than 35 times per calendar year and the annual limit value is 40 µg/m3. Under Stage 2, the 50µg/m3 value for the daily mean should not be exceeded more than seven times per calendar year and the annual limit is reduced to 20 µg/m3. All zones were compliant with the standards introduced from 2005. Monitoring of PM10 was carried out at Castlebar, Drogheda and Mountrath. The Stage 1 annual limit of 40 µg/m3 was not exceeded at any of the three locations. The Stage 1 limit in respect of daily means, i.e. 50 µg/m3, was exceeded in Castlebar and Drogheda with values of 61 µg/m3 and 55 µg/m3 respectively. However, daily exceedances of 4 and 1 respectively were within times permitted. No monitoring of PM2.5 was carried out within Zone D.

• Nitrogen Oxides – The EPA mobile units provided data at three sites in rural areas (Kilkitt, Glashaboy and Mountrath) – thus representing Zone D. Overall, all stations (over Zones A - D) monitoring hourly data measured at fixed stations and mobile units in 2005 were in compliance with the guide values as set out in Directive 85/203/EC. All stations, except Winetavern Street, Dublin, were also compliant with the more stringent hourly limit value, i.e. no more than 18 values to exceed 200 µg/m3, defined in Directive 1999/30/EC, to be achieved in 2010. The annual limit for NOx for the protection of vegetation set at 30 µg/m3 (applicable from 2010) would be met on the basis of the data recorded at the three rural stations.

• Lead – Lead levels at all stations monitored in Zones A, B and C were well below the limit and guide values as set out in 82/884/EEC with annual mean concentrations apart from Branch Road (in the Dublin Port area measuring 0.10 µg/m3 ) typically less than 0.03 µg/m3. The levels are similar to those recorded in 2001 and 2000 and this stabilisation of lead concentrations in urban areas suggests that the reductions due to the use of unleaded petrol have been fully realised. Lead in rural areas (Zone D) was monitored at Mountrath only. The annual mean recorded in 2005 of 0.03 µg/m3 was well within the annual mean limit value of 0.5 µg/m3 set for the protection of human health.

• Carbon monoxide - The values for Carbon monoxide in 2005 measured at all fixed locations, as well as additional EPA mobile sites, were below the threshold of 10 mg/m3. Monitoring in Zone D was carried out at Mountrath only where a maximum daily 8-hr mean value of 0.8 mg/m3 was recorded, the lowest value across the four zones. The highest maximum concentration of 4.6 mg/m3 was recorded in Coleraine Street, Dublin (Zone A).

• Benzene – Benzene concentration levels monitored at all zones were well below the limit value of 5 µg/m3 indicating that benzene levels would be well within the 2010 limit. Monitoring was carried out in Zone D at Mountrath only where, despite an hourly recorded maximum concentration of 17 µg/m3, the annual mean limit value did not exceed 0.3 µg/m3.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



Existing Facilities

The surrounding facilities at Marshmeadows contain tank farms and emissions to atmosphere can arise through marine and road tankers using the facility, fugitive losses from tanks and road tankers during filling and breathing losses and to a lesser extent combustion of fuel for heating purposes (offices).


The proposed development will involve the construction and operation of a biodiesel manufacturing facility. During both the construction and operational phases, emissions to atmosphere will potentially occur as set out below.

Construction Phase The operation of mobile plant and equipment will give rise to emissions to atmosphere of combustion gases, sulphur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen and particulates. However the emissions will not significantly impact on ambient air quality, given the quality of the existing ambient air environment and the small volume of emissions expected.

The construction phase will potentially give rise to increased dust levels in the immediate vicinity of the site.

Operational Phase

Potential emissions to atmosphere and the potential for odour generation will primarily be derived from the following:

• The process involves reuse of auxiliary chemicals such as methanol however there will still be point source emissions of methanol, sulphuric acid, water vapour, particulates and oil droplets from the distillation process. Methanol will make up the majority of emissions.

• Dust emissions from the potassium sulphate silo. • Working and breathing losses from on-site tanks and delivery road tankers. • Emissions of SO2, NOx, particulates, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide

from the boiler. • Fugitive emissions from the process building during both normal and

maintenance operations.

Details are further described in Section 3.4.2 and 3.4.5.


Construction Phase

Exhaust Emissions

The potential for impact arising from exhaust emissions during the construction phase is regarded as minimal due to:

• The relatively low level of existing emissions. • Any earthmoving equipment will comply with relevant EU Directives on

emissions control.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



• The short term nature of the construction phase. • Good wind dispersal at the site.

Dust and Particulates

The potential for impact arising from dust emissions during the construction is regarded as minimal due to implementation of the following:

• Water bowsers will be used to control fugitive dust emissions in order to ensure that nuisance from dust deposition does not occur.

• The short term nature of the construction phase. • Trucks removing dusty material will be covered. • Ready mix cement will be delivered to the construction site. Accordingly,

cement will not be stored on site.

Operational Phase

Process Point Source Emissions

Emissions of methanol will comply with mass emission limit values set by the EPA in the Draft BAT Guidance Note ON Best Available Techniques for the Manufacture of Organic Chemicals. To ensure adequate dispersion of emissions, the stack height for the process stack is proposed at 22.5m in accordance with the HIMP publication “Technical Guidance Note (DISPERSION) [D1]”.

The following control measures are proposed:

Methanol

While the process involves reuse of auxiliary materials such as methanol, it is inevitable that some emissions will escape to the stack. Therefore emissions from the distillation process will be directed through a wet scrubber5, which will function to trap methanol emissions that are released during the distillation process. Scrubber liquor will be stored on site, for offsite disposal in accordance with the relevant waste legislation.

Boiler Emissions

The boiler to be used on site for process steam generation will be a 7.1 mW boiler. The boiler will be a low NOx boiler and will incorporate low furnace heat release rates and will incorporate a 19% flue gas recirculation rate. A Saacke forced draught rotary cup burner with dual atomisers and ultra low NOx combustion will be used with the boiler. The technology proposed is considered BAT.

It is proposed to run the boiler on a mix of gas oil and bioheating oil from the process in a 70:30 mix. The bio-heating oil is biodiesel except it contains some animal fats and a higher sulphur content ranging between 0.08 – 0.2% mass. The bio-heating oil will be blended with gas oil to ensure that the sulphur content is not above 0.1% mass.

To ensure adequate dispersion of emissions, the stack height for the boiler stack is proposed at 24m. The HIMP publication “Technical Guidance Note (DISPERSION)

5 Subject to BAT and EPA Guidance.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:57



[D1]” calculations contained in Appendix F which are based on recent data from the burner manufacturer indicates that a minimum stack height of 25m may be required. However, the burner manufacturer will review the design or further modelling will be undertaken to ensure that 24m (which has already been granted planning) is sufficient. D1 is a preliminary screening tool for stack height calculations therefore the height required is likely to be overestimated.

Process Fugitive Emissions

The main process area will be covered by nitrogen at excess pressure. This prevents the entry of oxygen and therefore avoids the generation of an explosive mixture with methanol vapours. The same system will prevent fugitive emissions. During maintenance the building will be completely vented thus resulting in losses of methanol to the atmosphere. However this will only occur on an occasional basis and will be controlled as per licensing conditions.

Storage Tank Working and Breathing Losses, Odour Control

The working and breathing losses from the tanks will be minimal given the relatively low vapour pressure of the storage materials (excluding methanol).

Feedstock storage tanks (tallow, RVO and rapeseed) will be vented via an odour suppression system such as an activated carbon odour abatement system.

The methanol storage tank and buffer tank for storage of process intermediates will be vented via the nitrogen purge system located within the process building.

Biodiesel product storage tanks will be vented via a breather filter system.

Distillate bottoms from the biodiesel production storage tank will be vented via an independent activated carbon odour abatement system.

Appendix F1 contains an odour assessment carried out on a similar plant in Scotland and indicates that there will be no odour issue with the plant.

Transport-related Emissions

It is envisaged that finished product will be shipped to a UK or Irish refinery/distributors for blending with fossil fuel diesel and then distribution. The transfer of liquid to the ships will be carried out using the existing closed systems present at Marshmeadows wharf and therefore, combined with the low vapour pressure of biodiesel, will result in negligible release of gases.

Indirect or Off-site Effects

The biodiesel will be shipped to a UK or Irish refinery for blending with fossil fuel diesel. A number of studies have been carried out on the reduction in emissions from engines run on blended fuel. For example, a 30,000 tonne industry could supply 25,000 vehicles (running on 100% biodiesel) and would achieve the following:

• Halving the amount of particulate emissions from these vehicles. • Reduction in CO2 emissions by 100,000 tonnes. • Reduced SO2 emissions. • Reduced polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) emissions.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



• Reduced carbon monoxide and ground level ozone.

Independent studies on alternative fuels have concluded that biodiesel may result in the following lifecycle emissions compared to low sulphur diesel:

Table 5.6.2 Estimated Lifecycle Emissions Study

Emission Diesel g/km Biodiesel g/km %

GHG 925 71 8 Total Hydrocarbons

1.51 0.6 40

CO 2.72 1.4 52 PM10 438.4 274.3 63


Despite the existing fossil fuel storage facilities present at Marshmeadows, the existing ambient air quality can be described as good given the generally rural nature of the site and good wind dispersion present. The proposed development is not anticipated to impact on the existing ambient air quality and odours from storage tanks and filling operations will not be detected outside the site boundary due to the mitigation measures and factors listed above and the fact that the facility will be licensed by the EPA thus the plant will meet BAT requirements.

In the long term the proposed development will reduce emissions from up to 25,000 vehicles thus contributing towards the improvement of air quality particularly in urban areas.


Climate/Air Quality: Impacts on climate are described in Chapter 5.7 of this document.

Air/Water Quality: Deposition of emissions to air will not impact on the water quality of the River Barrow.

5.6.8 Monitoring

Monitoring will be carried out as per EPA licensing conditions.

5.6.9 Reinstatement

Not applicable.



For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



5.7 Climate

5.7.1 Introduction

This chapter addresses the impact of the proposed development on the local climate and the global climate in a wider context.


A literature search in relation to current climate changes strategies was carried out as part of this assessment.


Global Environment Climate change is recognised as the most serious global environmental problem. While natural variations in climate over time are normal, human interference with the global atmosphere system through the emission of very substantial amounts of greenhouse gases is causing a discernible effect on global climate. Continuing change in the global climate system is expected in the future due to further emissions of greenhouse gases. Many changes in climate are expected over the next century and beyond, including an average rate of warming probably greater than anything seen in the last 10,000 years.

The Kyoto Protocol Ireland is committed to advancing implementation of the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The ultimate objective of the Convention is the stabilisation of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous human-induced interference with the climate system. 1997 marked the beginning of a new phase in efforts to tackle greenhouse gas emissions.

Commitments The Kyoto Protocol sets targets for developed country Parties to achieve a 5.2% reduction in emissions of an aggregate of six greenhouse gases by 2008 - 2012 (referred to as the first commitment period) compared with 1990 levels. The first group or ‘basket’ of gases consists of the following:

• Carbon dioxide (CO2) • Methane (CH4) • Nitrous oxide (N2O)

For most Parties, including EU Member States, 1990 is the base year for this part of the basket. The second basket of gases consists of the following:

• Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) • Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) • Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6)

A series of “differentiated” targets were set for individual Parties. This included an 8% reduction for EU Member States and the European Community as a whole. The Protocol requires that by 2005 Parties must have made “demonstrable progress” towards achieving their commitments.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



The Protocol provides that the European Community and the Member States may achieve the EU 8% reduction target jointly. A “burden sharing” agreement has been reached on the distribution of this overall target between all Member States. This takes into account a number of factors such as projections for future greenhouse gas emissions, including economic growth factors, and relative efforts to meet the Kyoto target, so as to achieve an equitable distribution of the overall burden involved.

Situation in Ireland

Following a comprehensive consultation process, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government launched the National Climate Change Strategy in November 2000. Implementation of this Strategy will ensure that Ireland can meet its international commitments under the Kyoto Protocol.

Ireland has agreed a national target to limit the increase in its greenhouse gas emissions to 13% above 1990 levels in the period 2008-2012. The national target reflects a number of factors, including the relatively underdeveloped state of the economy in the base year (1990), as well as subsequent economic growth, available projections for greenhouse gas emissions and anticipated wealth by the end of the commitment period.

Without any action, the official estimates are that net annual emissions of greenhouse gases would increase by 37.3% over the period 1990 to 2012. In order to limit the growth in greenhouse gas emissions to 13% above 1990 levels, reductions in the projected figure of 13.1 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent are required.

Microclimate Micro-climate can be described as the climate within 1-2km of the site. The micro-climate of an area is influenced by both the natural (topographic) and built environment (buildings and structures). The construction of new structures destroys existing microclimates and creates new ones of great complexity depending on the design, density and function of the building. The degree to which a development can favourably influence micro-climate is frequently determined by the size, location and nature of the site.


The development itself will contribute, as one of the first biodiesel plants in Ireland, to the development of carbon neutral fuels in Ireland thus contributing towards Ireland’s efforts to curb emissions of green house gases and to achieve the targets set under the Kyoto Protocol. A 30,000 tonne biodiesel plant is anticipated to result in a reduction in CO2 emissions of 100,000 tonnes.

Site Specific Impacts

The proposal entails the annual production of 30,000 tonnes of energy positive6

biodiesel that will be used to displace an almost equivalent amount of energy negative mineral oil derived diesel.

The operation itself will not be energy intensive however indirectly, as with all new and existing development there is the potential for emissions of greenhouse gases

6 Energy positive – requires less energy than that contained within the fuel to manufacture the fuel; energy negative fuel requires more energy than that contained within it to produce it.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



through the use of electricity derived from non-renewable sources and the combustion of gas-oil in the boilers.

The development of the new biodiesel facility, at Marshmeadows will give rise to structures similar in height to existing facilities within the area (apart from the boiler stack which does not represent a large mass) and therefore will not have a significant impact on the microclimate of the area (although there is no known existing microclimate of significance).

The development does not constitute major outputs of steam/process emissions to atmosphere and therefore it is also not considered that the emissions could impact on the existing local climate.


As the installation is new, all processes and equipment to be installed in the facility have been selected to optimize energy usage. The BDI biodiesel manufacturing method was chosen as it requires only ambient pressure and low temperatures, thus reducing the requirement for energy usage. The manufacturing process is semi-continuous, which reduces energy usage on stopping, starting and warming up the plant.

Specifically the following measures will be implemented to reduce energy usage:

• A comprehensive automatic controls installation will be provided to help ensure the ongoing, reliable, safe and efficient operation of the plant.

• Heated vessels, tanks and pipes will be thermostatically controlled to minimize energy use. All storage tanks and pipework shall be insulated to minimize heat loss and therefore energy input.

• The process building will be thermally insulated. It is expected that no space heating will be required as heat loss from the process will be adequate to maintain a reasonable working space temperature within the insulated building. Construction materials have been chosen to maximize insulation where possible.

During operation the following measures will be taken:

• Minimisation of leakage (steam, compressed air) through regular checks and maintenance.

• Regular servicing of refrigeration condensers. • Cleaning of heat transfer surfaces. • Bioheating oil will be used in the boiler to reduce gas oil/fossil fuel usage –

saving approx. 700 tonnes of fossil fuel per year. • The boiler will be balanced to ensure that fuel wastage is minimized. • Hot water from the distillation process will be used as wash water for cleaning

the biodiesel. • An energy management system will be implemented on site in accordance

with the EPA licensing requirements for the site.


Residual impacts associated with on-site energy requirements will be minimized taking account of the mitigation measures described above.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58




Climate/Air Quality: Interactions have been described above and in Chapter 5.6.

5.7.8 Monitoring

An energy management system will incorporate energy use monitoring on site.

5.7.9 Reinstatement

Biodiesel is a renewable fuel.



For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



5.8 Noise and Vibration

5.8.1 Introduction

This chapter discusses the existing noise levels at the proposed site, the potential impacts of the proposed development on the existing ambient noise environment and the abatement measures that may be employed to reduce/eliminate the impact.


Baseline Monitoring

A survey of the existing noise environment was carried out by Malone O’ Regan on behalf of NRPC on the 17th September 2004 and the 30th March 2005. While the survey was aimed at establishing noise levels arising from Port activities, it is considered that results can be used in describing the receiving environment at the site and along the R733 at the nearest noise sensitive receptor. The methodology followed in undertaking the noise surveys was in accordance with the recommendation of the International Standards Organisation Document: ISO 1996 Parts 1, 2 and 3 (1982) and EPA Guidance Note on Noise in relation to scheduled activities.

Noise measurements were carried out using a BRÜEL & KJÆR 2238 Mediator Integrating Sound Level meter equipped with Enhanced SLM Software BZ7125. The monitoring equipment was calibrated before and after measurements using a BRÜEL & KJÆR sound level calibrator type 4231. The noise levels were measured using the A-weighted network, and a fast sampling interval. At all sample locations the noise meter was positioned at a minimum of 3.5 meters away from any reflecting surfaces, and mounted on a tripod 1.5 meters over ground level.

The survey comprised measurements at three locations within the Marshmeadows area and on the R733 at the nearest noise sensitive receptor in order to characterise the receiving environment.

The parameters measured were as follows:

� LAEQ is the A – weighted equivalent continuous sound level – the sound level of a steady sound having the same energy as a fluctuating sound over a specified measurement period.

� LA10 is the A – weighted noise level which is exceeded for 10% of the specified measurement period. This gives an indication of the upper limit of fluctuating noise such as that from road traffic.

� LA90 is the A – weighted noise level exceeded for 90% of the measurement period and is useful in providing an indication of the background noise level experienced over the measurement period.

All measurements were as dBA; i.e. decibels measured using the A-Weighted network, which corresponds to the frequency at which humans perceive noise. Noise monitoring locations are shown on Figure 7.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



Construction Phase - Noise Prediction Modelling

For this assessment, prediction of construction noise has been conducted as described in BS 5228: Part 1: 1997, Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites. According to this standard, it is difficult to provide detailed guidance on what noise levels will constitute a problem in a particular situation. However, a number of factors such as site location, existing ambient noise levels, duration of site operations, hours of work and attitude of the site operator are likely to affect considerations of acceptability of site noise.

Operational Phase – Noise Prediction Modelling

Noise levels at the nearest noise sensitive receptors were predicted in accordance with the requirements of ISO 9613.-2 - Acoustics – Attenuation of sound during propagation outdoors – Part 2: General method of calculation.

Operational Phase - Noise Criteria

The recommended EPA noise limits for scheduled activities at noise sensitive receptors (dwellings) are as follows:

The general guidance and limits for scheduled activities at noise sensitive locations (dwellings) are as follows:

• Free-field L Ar,T value of 55 dB by day-time (08:00hrs – 22:00hrs) • Free-field L Aeq,T value of 45 dB by night-time (22:00hrs – 08:00hrs)

According to the EPA Guidance Note for Noise in Relation to Scheduled Activities, rigorous efforts should be made to avoid clearly audible tones and impulsive noise at all sensitive locations, particularly night time. A penalty of 5 dB for tonal and/or impulsive noise should be applied to the day-time measured LAeq values to determine the appropriate rating level (L Ar,T). During night time no tonal or impulsive noise from the facility should be audible at any noise sensitive location.

5.8.3 The Receiving Environment

The site is located directly on the R733 and therefore the ambient noise environment is dominated by traffic noise. Moving westwards into the site the traffic noise reduces and the ambient noise is relatively quiet as indicated by the measurements taken close to the river front. The ambient noise environment around the wharf area can however increase for relatively long periods of time if loading and unloading activities are occurring at the wharf.

Table 5.8.2 contains the results of monitoring and indicate the variation in ambient noise environment of the surrounding land in the vicinity of the proposed biodiesel site. It is considered that the levels recorded at NM2 are representative of the ambient noise levels at the eastern boundary of the site. Traffic noise generally reduces at a rate of 3 decibels per doubling of distance therefore it is expected that traffic noise levels would reduce by up to 17 decibels on the western boundary of the site (approx.100m from the roadside). Accordingly, the LAeq,15mins is likely to reduce to approx. 47 – 50 dB(A) on the western boundary of the site.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



Table 5.8.1 Description of the Noise Monitoring Loc ations

Location Description of Location NM1 At unloading point Marshmeadows, New Ross NM2 At petrol station on roadside 400m south of entrance to

Marshmeadows and nearest noise sensitive receptor as there is a residential dwelling located there also.

NM3 Along the Marshmeadows access road opposite the Campus Oils facility and approx. 200m from the wharf.

Table 5.8.2 Results of Noise Monitoring

Location Time Interval

LAeq dB L A10 dB L A90 dB Comment

NM1 15 mins, Sept 04

46 47 43 No loading or unloading in operation; distant sound of traffic on R733 and forklift trucks on Raheen Wharf

NM1 15 mins, Mar 05

67 67 66 Unloading of petroleum in operation.

NM2 15 mins, Mar 05

64 68 48 Traffic on R733 dominant noise source.

NM3 15 mins, Mar 05

48 50 37 Occasional passing cars, HGVs manoeuvring in adjoining Campus Oils

facility.

Marshmeadows and the proposed biodiesel site are situated on the outskirts of New Ross town and are outside the town boundary. There are no residential receptors in the immediate vicinity of Marshmeadows mainly owing to the exclusion zone for health and safety reasons that legally pertain to a petroleum storage facility. The nearest house (NM2) to the proposed biodiesel plant (which does not come under the Seveso Regulations) is approx. 300m from the site southern boundary. This location is dominated by traffic related noise as evidenced in Table 5.8.2 above however it is expected that traffic noise would reduce during night time hours with night time LAeq, 5mins likely to be between 40 – 45 dB and night time LA,90, 5mins likely to reduce further to 30 – 35 dB.


Operational Phase

There are a number of potential noise sources arising as a result of the operational phase of the proposed development. Operations will be on a 24 hour basis.

Internal Plant Equipment

Internal plant equipment will comprise of chillers, compressors and a boiler. In addition air abatement systems such as scrubbers can give rise to noise impact. Accordingly there will be a number of noise sources on site with the potential to result

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



in sound pressure levels in the region of 85 dB(A) @ 1m within the process building. These sources are also likely to be tonal in nature. The proposed process building will comprise a single insulated wall panel such as Kingspan KS1000 40mm. The roof will comprise KS1000 40mm insulated roof panel. These panels comprise inner and outer layers of profiled steel cladding with extruded insulation sandwiched between both. The overall Rw or sound reduction index for this product is 27 dB with lower insulation achieved at lower frequencies i.e. 14 dB at 63 Hz. Predictions have been carried out for NM2 a noise sensitive receptor located approximately 350m to the south of the process building7 on the R733. Predictions made take account of the distance, structure type and also assume that doors will remain closed and will have at least the same Rw value as the Kingspan KS1000 40mm. It is also assumed that the noise will comprise low frequency tones therefore the low sound insulation value quoted above has been used. The predicted sound pressure level at NM2 is 33 dB(A). A penalty of 5 decibels is ascribed to these values as the noise may be tonal therefore the rating level LAR,T is 38dB.

External Noise Sources

Table 5.8.3 below details the external noise sources associated with the biodiesel facility.

Table 5.8.3 External Noise Sources

Section Area Source Sound Power Level (L WA)dB

Cooling Tower Air fan 65

Steam Boiler Pressure Relief Valves <100

Tank Farm Pumps <90*

General ventilation extractor fan

Air fan To be designed taking account of background and/or EPA Guidance values

* Note: there will be 17 pumps associated with the tank farm. The sound power level associated with each of these is approx. 60 – 65 dB(A). Not all of these will be in operation at any given time however there will be a constant noise emission from the tank farm pumps overall.

Cooling Tower

The sound pressure level (Lp) is given as 64 dB(A) @ 10m for the cooling tower running at full speed.

The noise spectrum for the cooling tower is as follows:

Table 5.8.4 Noise Spectrum Cooling Tower

Hz 63 125 250 500 1000 2000 4000 8000 Lp dB(A) 69 65 65 61 59 55 49 -

7 300m south of the site boundary.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



Overall sound power level is therefore 92 dB(A).

In order to predict the sound pressure level at the nearest noise sensitive receptor (NM2) the following equation is used:

SPL = Lw -20log(r) – 8 (Eqn. 1)

r = distance to the location = 350m

Lw = sound power level = 92 dB(A) Assumes hard ground therefore 8 is in place of 11

SPL = 92 – 20log(350) -8

SPL = 33 dB(A)

A penalty of 5 decibels is ascribed to this value as the noise may be tonal therefore the rating level LAR,T is 38dB.

The cooling tower may run at half speed, in which case the noise level or SPL at 10m is 47 dB(A).

In this case the noise from the cooling tower at the nearest sensitive location would be much lower at 16 dB(A).

Steam Boiler

The pressure relief valves for the boiler are a standard safety feature and would only operate in highly unusual circumstances where the boiler became overheated. Therefore is not considered necessary to consider this as a noise source (even an infrequent source) associated with the facility.

Tank Farm Pumps

Each tank farm pump will operate intermittently however there will always be a number of pumps in operation therefore predictions of sound pressure to the nearest noise sensitive location using 90dB as the overall sound power level for the pumps has been carried out as follows:

SPL = 90-20(350)-8 SPL = 31 dB(A)

A penalty of 5 decibels is ascribed to this value as the noise may be tonal therefore the rating level LAR,T is 36dB.

Cumulative Impact of Internal and External Noise Sources

Taking account of both internal and external noise sources, and assuming all are operating 24 hours (except in the case of the boiler pressure relief valves) the cumulative impact on the nearest noise sensitive location is calculated as follows:

LT = 10log10 (10L1/10+10 L2/10 +10 L3/10)

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



Where L1 is the noise associated with the tank farm pumps, L2 is the noise associated with the overall process building and L3 is the noise associated with the cooling tower predicted at the nearest noise sensitive location. The cooling tower noise is insignificant and is therefore not included.

L1= 36 dB(A) L2= 38 dB(A) L2= 38 dB(A)

LT or overall LAR,T = 42 dB(A)

The lowest average background levels L 90,15 mins taken from Table 5.8.2 during daytime monitoring is 48 dB(A). Accordingly, the receptor will not be affected during daytime. However, background night-time levels are likely to reduce to between 30 and 35 dB(A). Accordingly complaints may occur at night time based on the data received to date.

It should however be noted that the above represents a worst case scenario as attenuation due to ground and shielding from the tank farm etc have not been taken into account. Furthermore, in reality the tank farm pumps are likely to be much lower and the prediction of noise from the internal process building to the external only took account of the insulation value at the lowest frequency for the process building envelope. In the absence of noise spectra, it has been assumed that all noise sources are tonal. Also, the above does not assume any noise mitigation measures. Accordingly, it is highly probable that the actual plant noise at the nearest location will be much lower than predicted and noise levels will not exceed existing background levels, particularly as the plant will be designed to try to achieve this specification. At a minimum the EPA Guidance Value will be achieved.

Ship-related Noise

Noise will be generated by manoeuvring and docking of ships and loading of biodiesel for transport to the UK. The noise arising from the docking and manoeuvring of ships and unloading of petroleum has been measured at 10m from the existing wharf. Taking into account a distance of 500m from the wharf to the nearest receptor (NM2) and the fact that unloading was taking place when measurements were taken at NM2, it can be concluded that there will be no significant impact on this receptor due to loading of biodiesel.

Long term Traffic Generation

It is envisaged that approx. 7.5 trucks and 25 cars will enter and exit the site on a daily basis. The AADT on the R733 is 7,210. Accordingly the contribution from the plant is negligible and there will be no traffic noise impact on nearby sensitive receptors. Deliveries will mainly occur during day time hours however the existing port is a 24 hour operation and therefore 24 hour deliveries would not impact on nearby sensitive receptors.

VibrationThere are no sources of vibration associated with the long term operational phase of the development.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



Construction Phase

The construction phase is likely to be completed by early 2008.

Prediction of construction noise to the nearest noise sensitive receptor (NM2) has been conducted as described in BS 5228: Part 1: 1997, Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites. According to this standard, it is difficult to provide detailed guidance on what noise levels will constitute a problem in a particular situation. However, a number of factors such as site location, existing ambient noise levels, duration of site operations, hours of work and attitude to the site operator are likely to affect considerations of acceptability of site noise. The construction phase will generally consist of a number of stages.

The first stage will involve site preparation and will involve the operation of heavy equipment, such as excavators within the proposed site, and the movement of HGVs onto and off site, all involved in excavation and filling works. The second stage would involve the use of a piling rig on site and ancillary equipment. The next stage of construction will then include unloading and leveling of hardcore and rolling of rockfill using road rollers. Movement of HGVs onto and off site will also occur.

In the fourth stage, construction will take place involving construction of the floor slab, erection of structural steel, roofing and cladding, installation of equipment, mechanical and electrical services and commissioning. The above would typically involve concreting operations, dismantling and loading scaffold poles and clips, the use of diggers, dumpers poker vibrators, cranes, hoists, compressors and rollers etc. Table 5.8.5 below details typical noise sources that may be in operation at different times. As the construction of the facility will be subject to a tendering process, the prediction of construction noise can only be an outline of likely sources used. Also, BS5228, from which the noise data is sourced, refers to different power ratings for equipment. During the actual construction, these ratings may vary and therefore the noise levels will vary.

The highest predicted noise level at the nearest noise sensitive receptor is associated with the operation of the poker vibrators at 64 dB(A). However, as stated above, these represent worst case scenarios and equipment with a lower power rating may be used on site. Section 5.8.5 below details mitigation measures and acceptable limits for the construction phase of development.

The construction phase will not result in vibrational impact on existing buildings/tank farms at Marshmeadows.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



Table 5.8.5 Likely Noise Levels Arising from the C onstruction Phase Predicted at the Nearest Receptor

Activity Activity equivalent continuous sound pressure level L Aeq @ 10m

Predicted L A,eq,t at the nearest sensitive receptor 300m distant

Site Preparation 2 week period Likely Equipment to be Used for Clearing and Ground Excavation Dozer (ripping) Tipper lorry/Placing of rock fill Tracked loader

Likely equipment to be used for Trenching:

Tracked Excavator and Lorry

Likely Equipment to be used for Tipping/Spreading and Levelling of Ground:

Dump Truck Wheeled Excavator/loader Dozer Roller

92 85 84

76

82 76 81 78

62 55 54

46

52 46 51 48

Piling 3 week period Likely Equipment to be Used: Bored piling – Ancillary operations – Truck Mixer Diesel driven generator (power supply for hydraulic piling rig) Total for piling

84 81

64

54 51

34

56 Building Construction c. 25 weeks Likely Equipment to be Used: Truck mixer (discharging) Pumping concrete - truck mixer Placing concrete and compaction – (combined truck mixer, tracked crane, poker vibrator)

Other Likely Noise Sources in Operation at different times: Diesel Driven Generator Compressor Poker vibrators (max likely) Electric percussion drills Hand-held petrol driven disc cutter Scaffold Poles and Clips Site Fork Lift Trucks (idling) Diesel Hoist Dumper Tracked Crane Lorry

84 81 86

82 81 94 78 84 80 77 76 82 86 85

54 51 56

52 51 64 48 54 50 47 46 52 56 55

Paving Works/ Landscaping c 4 weeks

Tipper lorry Roller Grader

85 80 84

55 52 55

Noise Sources: BS5228: Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites: Part 1: Code of Practice for basic information and procedures for n oise and vibration control: 1997.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58




Construction Phase The predicted noise levels arising from the construction phase are above the EPA Guidance Values for Scheduled IPC licensed activities but are similar to existing background levels at the nearest noise sensitive receptor (NM2). However it is important to note that the levels specified by the EPA are not normally applied to construction activities. There is no published Irish guidance relating to the maximum permissible noise level that may be generated during the construction phase of a project. The following limits are considered more suitable and are deemed acceptable, for example, for motorway construction:

Table 5.8.6 Maximum Permissible Noise Levels at the Façade of Dwellings During Construction

Days & Times LAeq (1hr) dB L Amax dB

Monday to Friday 07:00 to 19:00hrs

70 80

Monday to Friday 19:00 to 22:00hrs

608 65

Saturday 08:00 to 16:30hrs

65 75

Sundays and Bank Holidays

08:00 to 16:30hrs 60 65

Notwithstanding the above, it is considered unlikely that the EPA Guidance values would be exceeded at the nearest noise sensitive receptor during the construction phase of the development except in exceptional instances and for very short durations.

The following mitigation measures will be implemented to ensure that the levels specified under Table 5.8.6 above are complied with:

• During the construction phase all equipment will be required to comply with EC Directives relating to noise emissions from construction, plant and equipment (S.I. 320/1988). These include compressors, welding generators, excavators, dozers, loaders and dump trucks. Account will also be taken of BS 5228: Part 1: 1997 - Noise Control on Construction and Open Sites.

• Construction work will be limited to hours agreed with Planning Authorities, particularly in relation to piling.

• Construction work is temporary and short term in nature. • During the construction phase any complaints received will be thoroughly

investigated with suitable mitigation measures taken at the time such as restricting the use of noisy equipment during the early hours and late in the evening. With these measures, noise impact from the construction phase will be kept to a minimum and within acceptable levels to noise sensitive receptors.

8 Construction activity at these times, other than that required in respect of emergency works, will

normally require the explicit permission of the relevant local authority

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



Operational Phase

At a minimum, the EPA noise criteria for scheduled activities will be complied with through implementation of the necessary abatement equipment and housing of equipment where required.


The residual impact of the development on the nearest noise sensitive receptor is deemed negligible taking into account the existing ambient noise environment, noise criteria and mitigation measures listed above.


Interactions between noise, traffic and human beings have been described above.

5.8.8 Monitoring

Monitoring will be carried out as per EPA licensing requirements.

5.8.9 Reinstatement

Not applicable.



For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



5.9 Landscape and Visual

5.9.1 Introduction

This chapter describes the existing landscape and visual aspects of the site and examines the likely impacts of the proposed biodiesel plant development on the site.

BHL Landscape Design undertook the impact assessment of the proposed development. The full revised Landscape and Visual Impact Report, 2007 is contained in Appendix G. A glossary of the terms used in this report is also included in Appendix G.

As set out in the planning history (page 1 of this EIS), the baseline information presented in this chapter and in Appendix G reflects the site status in 2005 and therefore represents a worse case scenario.


The statement has been prepared in accordance with the following publications:

• Environmental Protection Agency Advice Notes and Current Practice, 1995. • Environmental Protection Agency Guidelines on the information to be

contained in an Environmental Impact Statement, 2002. • Landscape Institute/Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment

Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, 2002.

The methodology adopted in relation to the preparation of this section of the EIS is as follows:

1. Review of early project documentation and drawings. 2. Review of relevant development plans. 3. Site inspection including viewing site from distant perspectives and capturing

photographic record. 4. On going review of project documentation and drawings as they were

produced. 5. Continuous consultation with design team 6. Revisions arising from request for additional information


The assessment of the existing environment in relation to landscape/visual issues addresses the constituent elements, the composition and character of the site of the proposed development, the context of the site in relation to the surrounding landscape and the relevance of the site to the views and prospects available within the surrounding landscape.

Planning Context The landscape and visual assessment was prepared in the context of the following development plans:

• The Wexford County Development Plan 2007 – 2013. • The New Ross and Environs Development Plan, 2004.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



The following extract from the Wexford County Development Plan 2007 - 2013 is of relevance to this section of the environmental impact statement.

9.4.4 Landscape All aspects of natural, built and cultural heritage come together in the landscapes experienced in County Wexford. Landscapes give a sense of place. Identification with particular landscapes may contribute to a sense of wellbeing. In County Wexford the coastline and countryside are a source of pride, inspiration and well being for many residents and visitors alike.

Landscapes are continually changing. Change may be driven by natural forces (e.g. climate), but is largely the result of the actions of many different people and agencies. The challenge the Council faces is to manage the landscapes so that change is positive in its effects, so that the landscapes which are valued will be protected and those which have been degraded are enhanced. Ireland has signed and ratified the European Landscape Convention which entails a commitment to introducing policies to effect landscape protection and management. A Landscape Character Assessment forms part of this plan.

Policy L1 In assessing developments the Council will have reg ard to the guidance contained in the Landscape Character Assessment. Pr oposed developments should reflect the guidance contained in the Landscape Character Assessment and seek to minimise the visua l impact, particularly in areas designated as Sensitive and V ulnerable Landscapes.

9.4.5 Woodlands, Trees & Hedgerows Trees are an environmental, economic and landscape resource of great importance and Irish conditions are particularly suited to rapid tree growth. Hedgerows, particularly those with a variety of plant and tree species are of particular importance for biological diversity in the countryside. The most species rich hedgerows are usually the oldest ones, and townland boundary and roadside hedgerows are particularly important for this reason. Species rich hedgerows are important habitats in their own right, and they also act as wildlife corridors for many species, allowing dispersal and movement between other habitats. Hedgerows are not only important for biodiversity, but have a farming, landscape, archaeology and cultural value.

Policy NH 1 The Council shall encourage the conservation and ma intenance of features important to local landscapes including tr ees, hedgerows, stone walls, woodlands, ponds, streams and wetlands .

Policy NH 2 The Council shall protect trees and woodlands of pa rticular amenity and nature conservation value and make Tree Preservatio n Orders where appropriate.

Policy NH 3 The Council shall encourage woodland management and participating in tree and hedgerow planting schemes by community groups and others.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



Policy NH 6 The Council shall resist development proposals whic h would result in the loss of trees which make a valuable contributio n to the character of the landscape, a settlement or its setting.

Landscape Character Assessment Report

The proposed plant falls just within the Barrow River Corridor Policy Area which is a landscape within the Lowlands policy area. According to the report, the River Barrow is a highly scenic river corridor. Water courses are classified as sensitive landscapes in the report however the proposed plant is in an industrial setting which would also be classed as a robust setting particularly given that the proposed plant is on the edge of the designated zone and the fact that it is 350m from the riverside with other tank farms in between it and the river.

The following extract is from Section 7.0 of the Landscape Character Assessment Report prepared by CAAS Ltd. for County Wexford. The policies are indicative and should be interpreted in conjunction with the landscape sensitivity of the area described above.

7.1. Lowland The Lowland Character Area contains predominately fertile lands with high levels of population and intensive land management (agriculture). The slope and topography in the area occurs in a shallow/gradual transition. Agricultural lands tend to be characterized by extensive views across large fields as a result of the generally low well-trimmed hedges. This character unit may be generally classified robust to normal, however sensitive areas or landscape factors can be found at specific locations. Within the Lowlands there are a number of important sub-divisions – and ‘landscape within landscape’ – as follows;- There are two areas of elevated lands – the North and South Hills – which contain concentrations of elevated areas that enclose or visually dominate the local countryside. Within these areas there are higher than normal concentrations of potentially conspicuous sites where additional vigilance will be required when evaluating planning applications. In contrast to the elevated areas there are two highly scenic major River Corridors – The Slaney and the Barrow – than transect the lowlands of the County. Of these the Slaney is the most exceptional on account of its extent, its centrality to the county and it’s unspoilt character. This is another area where additional vigilance will be required when evaluating planning applications.

• Recognise that these areas are made up of a variety of working landscapes and contain the vast proportion of the Counties population within principle towns and on rural holdings. These also incorporate all of the major national primary and regional roads, and railways.

• Continue to permit development that can utilise existing infrastructure, whilst taking account of absorption opportunities provided by the landscape and prevailing vegetation.

• Encourage development that will not unduly result in detrimental impacts on the landscape at a local or micro level as viewed from areas of the public realm.

• Consider development on steep slopes, ensuring that it will not have a disproportionate or dominating visual impact on the surrounding environment as seen from areas of the public realm.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:58



• Recognise the substantial pockets of residential and rural landuses in some locations and the emerging pressures for differing landuses of industry, wind energy and residential development in this policy area.

• Continue to facilitate appropriate development in a progressive manner that respects the scale character and sensitivities of the landscape.

• Recognise that in this low lying open environment, tall and bulky development sometimes can have a disproportionate impact against the landscape particularly when viewed from the predominantly low lying areas of the public realm.

• Encourage development that will not have a disproportionate effect on the existing character of the landscape in terms of location, design, and visual prominence.

The following extract from the New Ross and Environs Development Plan, 2004 is of relevance to this chapter of the environmental impact statement.

Hedgerows, Trees, Landscapes

It is the policy of the planning Authority:

• To protect, preserve and ensure the effective management of existing trees, hedgerows and the landscape (including views) and ensure that new development is designed in order to preserve and enhance these features.

• To protect the natural character of the undeveloped portions of the riverbank and protect views across the river particularly where these are towards natural landscapes on the opposing side. Where development is proposed on such sites they should be accompanied by a brief, which examines the natural character of the site and shows how the development has been designed to accommodate and enhance the character of the site.

• That applications for development of multiple housing, commercial or other large-scale developments shall include landscape-planting plan. Such a planting plan should specify predominantly native species that will support local wildlife. Opportunities for habitat enhancement and creation should be examined. Options for linking wildlife corridors both within the site and with those outside the site should be provided for. The use of wildlife corridors should be considered along with ‘buffer zones’ and ‘habitat gradation’

Chapter 16 – General Site Development Standards

16.3 – Landscape/Vegetation

All applications for major developments shall be accompanied by a landscape scheme. The landscaping scheme shall be designed as an integral part of the development and shall consider the following factors:

• The developer will be responsible for the grading, hard landscaping, planting and further development of open space, including the provision of footpaths, paved areas etc.

• Existing landscape features such as stands of mature trees, hedgerows, rock outcrops and water features shall be properly identified and retained where appropriate.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



• Layouts will be required to facilitate the retention of the maximum number of significant trees.

• New developments will be required to consider the future growth, management and maintenance of the landscape and open areas. Planting needs to have a careful balance between quick-growing species for earlier maturity and longer lived trees that may reach their peak in up to 100 years time. The landscape plan and the section of plant species should consider low maintenance species. Native tree species are more valuable is wildlife habitat than species, because they support a greater variety of insect life. These will generally be preferred.

The planning authority shall require the developer to carry out the landscaping of open space. Security by means of a financial bond may be required to ensure the protection of existing trees on a development site or to ensure that a landscaping plan is adequately implemented.

Implications for Proposed Development in Relation t o the Planning Context

The site of the proposed project lies within the low-lying Barrow River corridor Landscape Character Area, but it immediately adjoins the higher ground of Policy Area 3 – South Hills and it is located within an existing portal area with buildings and structures of similar type. The zoning is for industrial use and the site is within a receiving landscape that has the capacity to absorb development subject to adhering to high standards of design and siting.

In response to Item 16.3 the proposed project includes a landscaping planting plan.

Landscape Character

The landscape character of the site itself is low-lying infilled, marshy land (2005) and lies within the low-lying Barrow River corridor Landscape Character Area and it is located within an existing typical portal area with buildings and structures of similar type.

Landscape Context

The site forms part of a reclaimed river bank/riverside meadow area already developed for port related activities and is set within a very distinctive tidal river landscape- Landscape Character Area known as the Barrow River corridor - with the broad sweeping river Barrow fringed by reed beds and edged by mudflats at low tide, with a lowland agricultural landscape to the west and a narrow lowland agricultural landscape in transition to commercial services use to the south, a narrow lowland agricultural landscape in more advanced transition to commercial services use to the north. The site is backed by an undulating tree-clad hilly landscape to the east, - Landscape Character Area known as Policy Area 3 – South Hills. The urban landscape of the hillside town of New Ross lies to the north and north east.

Topography

The site at Marshmeadows is low and flat and forms part of the reclaimed area of mudflats and reed beds by the river Barrow, with high ground to the east rising up to a local high point at Oaklands. The higher (98m) Camlin Hill lies to the south east.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



Hedgerows, Trees and Shrub Cover

The site is largely devoid of hedgerows, trees and shrub cover and vegetation is generally limited to low growing grasses, rushes, sub-shrubs and wildflowers (2005). There are a few small shrubby trees – Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) along the side of the R733.

Across the R733 the west-facing slope of the rising ground is densely furnished with a deciduous woodland largely consisting of Beech (Fagus sylvatica)

Existing Buildings / Artefacts

There are no existing buildings or artefacts on the site in question.

Land Use

The land was reclaimed in the mid 19th century and would have been in agricultural use up to relatively recently as poor quality grazing. More recently (2005) it has been filled to depths no greater than 1m. The site is currently (2005) unused in anticipation of use for an appropriate port-related industrial development.

Intrusion on or Proximity to Listed Views / Landsca pe

The Wexford County Development Plan does not contain listed views/landscape as such however it does make reference to the Barrow River Corridor as described above.

The proposed development will impact on views across and from the river and on views such as they are, enjoyed by travellers on the R733.

Viewers

The site is overlooked at some distance by some viewers on the high ground in the southern suburbs of New Ross to the north east and the peri-urban area of New Ross on the high ground to the east, and also to distant viewers in the upper apartments of the new developments on the Kilkenny side of the bridge.

The site is also exposed to viewers on a R733, a busy road with substantial tourist traffic as it is the route to/from John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, Dunbrody Abbey, Ballyhack – Passage East Car Ferry, Duncannon, Hook Head and the coastal route from Wexford/Rosslare.

Views and Prospects

There are no particularly attractive views and prospects available from the site itself, with the exception of the view looking directly south.

Change in the Landscape

The site is set within an area of portal development which has witnessed significant landscape change in recent years where the land has been transformed from a lowland pasture meadow/mudflat/reed bed area into a port related services and industrial location.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



Landscape Character Evolutionary Track

The Landscape Character Evolutionary Track for the site would have had a start point in the distant past as a riverine tidal marsh reed bed, followed relatively recently in the 19th century by reclaimed water meadow – a natural/agricultural landscape track and now following further reclamation, it is part of an inland portal industrial and portal-related services landscape – it is now on an industrial/heavy services landscape track.

Sensitivity of the Landscape

The roadside location of the site and its setting in a low lying area overlooked to some extent to the north gives rise to a low to moderate level of landscape/visual sensitivity which is modified to a substantial degree by the local topography/tree cover and the level of development already permitted on the neighbouring segments of the port area.


Process Building, Distillation Tower & Stacks

The process building, column tower and stacks are buildings and structures of some considerable mass, their footprint within the site is however proportionally small in the context of the overall Marshmeadows site and the distinct vertical lines of stack and distillation tower has the potential to create an interesting and striking visual landmark.

The predicted / potential landscape / visual impacts is therefore expected to be initially negative and significant.

Tank Farm & Cooling Tower

The tank farm and cooling tower because of the number of tanks involved, their height and their close association, will have substantial mass. Their footprint within the site is however also relatively small in the context of the overall Marshmeadows site and the diversity of the vertical structures have the potential to create an interesting and striking visual landmark.

The predicted/potential landscape/visual impacts of the tank farm and cooling tower are expected to be initially negative and significant.

Infrastructure

The infrastructure in association with the development is modest in scale and size.

The predicated / potential landscape / visual impacts of the associated infrastructure will be slightly negative in the short term.

Landscaping

The proposed landscaping along the northern, eastern and southern boundaries when initially implemented will be overpowered by the scale and mass of the

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



proposed development and therefore the predicted / potential landscape / visual impact of the landscaping will initially be neutral.

Cumulative Impact

The initial landscape change arising from the proposed development will be quite dramatic and is likely to be perceived as negative by many viewers although the majority of these will comprise of passing motorists on the R733.

However taking the proposed development as a combination of all of its elements and excluding the mitigation of time, but recognising the potential of the development to create an interesting and striking visual landmark, it is objectively expected that the predicted / potential landscape / visual impacts of the proposed development will initially be negative and moderate.


The following are the measures proposed, many of which are already part of the original design or have been incorporated in the design in response to the environmental impact assessment process. These will, when detailed and implemented, serve to mitigate those adverse landscape impacts that would otherwise arise in association with the project.

The mitigating measures are listed in order of priority, linked to the implementation of the project from pre-construction / design stage through to completion.

1. Management of Soil for Landscaping

Care should be exercised with regard to the handling of the soil on the site with particular reference to avoiding compaction or relieving compaction as necessary in all areas scheduled for subsequent landscaping in order to maximise the rapid establishment of the new planting (Refer to guidelines in Appendix 2 of Appendix G).

Ground shaping and contouring will be undertaken in a sensitive manner to blend with the existing landscape.

Due to the low-lying nature of the site with a high water-table, it is recommended that the planting areas be slightly mounded (recommended gradient of 1 in 3).

2. The planting of trees, hedging and shrubbery will be implemented around the

boundaries of the site in association with the proposed development, designed to achieve a reasonable degree of visual mitigation and screening over time to address the negative visual impact of the different elements of the project.

3. All landscaping carried out within the site will incorporate a provision for future

care and management to ensure the successful establishment and ongoing growth of same.

4. Landscaping will be implemented on a programmed basis closely linked with construction programme to ensure that the mitigating measures are effective from the earliest possible date. All planting will take place at the latest in the

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



first planting season (November to March) following the completion of construction work on any specific element of the overall project.

5. The public lighting system will be carefully selected in order to avoid excessive escape of light at night whilst insuring an adequate and safe distribution of light within the built elements of the complex.

6. The cladding and surface finishes have been chosen to mitigate the visual impact of the buildings and structures, particularly when viewed against the sky.


The following is a description of the residual landscape visual impacts that are expected, when account is taken of the mitigating measures over time all as set out in association with the project and described in detail above.

It can be anticipated that the visual mitigation provided by the landscaping measures will increase incrementally over time.

It is also reasonable to assume that additional development will take place in the port area and particularly if this is within the framework of an overall master-plan, further visual mitigation will accrue from the uniform development standards that such an approach will generate.

Process Building, Distillation Column & Stacks

The process building, distillation column and stacks are buildings and structures of considerable mass, their footprint within the site is however proportionally small in the context of the overall site and the distinct vertical lines of stack and distillation tower has the potential to create an interesting and striking visual landmark. Having account of the increase in the positive effects of the mitigation measures over time that is anticipated, the residual landscape / visual impacts will reduce from negative and significant to negative and moderate in the medium term, reducing to slight to moderate negative in the long term.

Tank Farm & Cooling Tower

The tank farm and cooling tower because of the number of towers involved, their height and their close association will have substantial mass, their footprint within the site is however proportionally small in the context of the overall Marshmeadows site and the diversity of the vertical structures has the potential to create an interesting and striking visual landmark. Having account of the increase in the positive effects of the mitigation measures over time that is anticipated, the residual landscape / visual impacts will reduce from negative and significant and to negative and moderate in the medium term, reducing to slight to moderate negative in the long term.

Infrastructure

The infrastructure in association with the development is modest in scale and size.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



The residual landscape / visual impacts of the associated infrastructure will be slightly negative in the short term and neutral in the medium and long term.

Landscaping

The proposed landscaping, as described in Section 3.2.5, when established, will achieve sufficient scale and mass to mitigate the landscape/visual impact of the proposed development and the residual landscape / visual impact of same will be significantly positive in the medium and long term.

Cumulative Impact

The initial landscape change arising from the proposed development will be quite dramatic and is likely to be perceived as negative by many viewers although the majority of these will comprise of passing cars along the R733.

However taking the proposed development as a combination of all of its elements, recognising the potential landmark characteristics of the building structures, allowing for further development in the area within a master-plan framework and including the mitigation of time, it is objectively expected that the residual landscape / visual impacts of the proposed development will initially be moderately negative in the short term and, reducing to moderate to slight and negative in the medium term, reducing to slightly negative/neutral in the long term.


Flora and Fauna: Some tree planting will be carried out along the boundaries of the site. Most will be native with the exception of the beech which complements the existing beech trees to the east of the site.

5.9.8 Monitoring

The condition of all the newly planted trees on the site will be monitored on a continuous basis and a landscape management programme will be put in place whereby remedial measures and/or additional planting is implemented when and as required.

An annual report on the condition of the trees and the new landscaping together with recommended management action will be submitted to Wexford County Council Planning department after a period of three years and again after six years.

5.9.9 Reinstatement

Not applicable.



For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



5.10 Cultural Heritage

5.10.1 Introduction

This chapter identifies the archaeological potential of the site, assesses the impact of the development on it and recommends mitigation measures in this regard. The full report prepared by Mr. Maurice Hurley is contained within Appendix H.


The assessment is based upon local historical research, including an examination of all cartographic and documentary resources, and a field-walking survey of the entire site. The cartographic sources consulted include the Sites and Monuments Record for Co. Wexford and the topographical files held by the Heritage Section of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the National Museum of Ireland. The primary historical source consulted was The Archaeological Inventory of Co. Wexford (Moore, 1996). Supplementary published historical and archaeological reports for the area were also consulted (Appendix H, Report Bibliography). A number of previous Environmental Impact Assessments were reviewed; these include: the History & Cultural Heritage section in Dredging and improvement of the Navigation Channel of the River Barrow by M.F. Hurley (December 1995) for Malone O’ Regan, Consulting Engineers; the Cultural Heritage of the River Barrow section of River Barrow Training Works by Aidan O’ Sullivan (November 1997) for Malone O’ Regan, Consulting Engineers; ‘Archaeological Assessment of County Kilkenny Land Improvement site at Ringville’ by M.F. Hurley in River Barrow Training Works for Malone O’ Regan, Consulting Engineers (February 1999), and ‘Archaeological Assessment of Co. Wexford, Land Improvement sites at Whitechurch & Marshmeadows’ by M.F. Hurley in River Barrow Training Works for Malone O’ Regan, Consulting Engineers (February 1999), Port extension Marshmeadows, River Barrow, New Ross, Co. Wexford. Archaeological Assessment by D. Boland (August 2004).

The proposed development site was inspected by means of a field survey in August 2005. The survey was carried out to assess the likely chances of the occurrence of archaeological monuments within the area of proposed works.

Previous Archaeological Work in the Area

This area of the River Barrow was subject to extensive study between 1995 & 1999 as part of the River Barrow Training Works, when both the maritime and terrestrial environments effected by the works were studied Hurley (1995), O’ Sullivan (1997), Brady (1998, 107), Hurley (1999), Kieran (1999, 21). In particular the channel and mud-flats adjacent to Marshmeadows were surveyed while the river-meadow to the south of the site was one of the sites used for the deposition of dredged material (Appendix H, Figures 3 & 4).

In 1999/2000 the dredging of the River Barrow was subject to 24 hour monitoring by a team of maritime archaeologists (Kieran 1999, 21). The finds included ‘three stone anchors, boat timbers, set weights, small gaming-pieces, nails, bone, leather and even small wooded tools’ (ibid).

An archaeological assessment for a port extension at Marshmeadows (recently granted planning permission but as yet un-built) was undertaken in 2004 by Donal

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



Boland Maritime Archaeologist. This study involved a detailed survey of the riverbed and intertidal mud-flats adjacent to the existing Marshmeadows Wharf. The survey concluded that ‘no features which could be described as being archaeological were revealed by the site surveys conducted as part of this assessment at the location of the proposed port development’ (Boland 2004, 4 & 36).


The site of the proposed development is composed entirely of made ground. The River Barrow is tidal some 350 m to the west of the site, however it is likely that the flood plain of the river once extended to the foot of the sloping ground now occupied by the New Ross to Arthurstown/Fethard road (R733). It appears that the road was laid out along the original riverbank in this area. The flood plain between the road and the present riverbank was covered at high tide and during floods.

The ground was evidently reclaimed from the river mud prior to the mid 19th century. The reclamation had taken place before the 1840s as the landscape of rectangular fields extended from the road to the riverbank has not been significantly altered from that surveyed for the 1st edition Ordnance Survey map. Subsequent editions of the Ordnance maps (Appendix H, Figures 3 & 4) show little change in the landscape. Essentially the rectangular fields are divided by ditches (drains), some with sluices by the riverbank. The entire area is described on the Ordnance Survey 6’’ scale map as covered by spring tides (Appendix H, Figure 3). A low reed covered dyke (levee) fronted the riverbank. A photograph (Appendix H, Plate 3) of the fields to the south (downstream) of the port site gives an indication of the type of landscape that characterised Marshmeadows prior to industrial development and modern filling.

The townland of Marshmeadows, as the name suggest is confined to the area of reclaimed ground. The name implies that these fields were unsuitable for tillage and were used exclusively for pasture or forage land. This type of farming characterises flood plains, (water meadows) as in the Callows (Calladh). The lands were unsuitable for winter grazing and hay was cut late in the season when the ground had dried out hence the term meadows for a field cut for hay.

The occurrence of any form of ancient habitation on this landscape is unlikely however, evidence for human activity is likely to pertain to riverfront and maritime remains such as wharfs, jetties, fish-traps and objects lost or deposited in the river mud. The 19th century reclamation may have destroyed or retrieved any such remains. Subsequently infilling for industrial developments (Post 1970s) sealed any such remains, if they exist deep beneath the modern surface.

The depth of fill on the proposed biodiesel site varies from 1m to little or nothing (2005). The surface is now heavily overgrown by scrubby vegetation (Appendix H, Plate 1). Unfilled areas to the south of the site are characterised by the grassland meadows created by the 19th century reclamation.

The History & Archaeology of the Area

There are no known archaeological monuments on the site of the proposed development or in the surrounding area (Appendix H, Figures 3 & 4). A list of the sites in the immediate vicinity compiled from the DOELG Heritage Service SMR, RMP and Archaeological Inventory of Co. Wexford is as follows:

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



SMR 34:26 (Appendix H, Figures 3 & 4) Map 34 National Grid 27077,12224 Townland Oldcourt Classification Castle (site); 2km to south. Description Castle at Oldcourt recorded on Civil Survey when it was owned by David Sutton and marked ‘site of castle’ with rectangular building on 1841 OS map. Slight oval hollow (dims. 23m E-W; 16m N-S).

SMR 34:15 (Appendix H, Figures 3 & 4) Map 34 National Grid 26940,12369 Townland Stokestown Classification Castle; 1.3km to the south-west of the site Description Lost by the Prendergasts to George Dormer, a New Ross merchant in 1582. Altered in 19th century. Rectangular tower (dims. 7m x 6.6m) of three floors and parapet level, lacking barrel vault, quoins and base-batter with few original features apart from some blocked lights, and a large mullioned and transomed window with square hood-mouldings on second floor (now blocked).

SMR 34:30 (Appendix H, Figures 3 & 4) Map 34 National Grid 27226, 12273 Townland Ballinteskin Classification Ringfort; 2km to the southeast of the site Description Subcircular area (dims. 36m N-S; 33m E-W) defined by degraded earthen bank (Wth 1.5-2m; int. H 0.3-0.8m; ext. H0.4m) with internal and external stone revetment. No visible fosse and entrance cannot be determined. Field fence circumscribes site ESE-WSW at distance of 5m. Pasture.

SMR 34:18 (Appendix H, Figures 3 & 4) Map 34 National Grid 27236,12300 Townland Slaght Classification Enclosure (site); 1.8km to the southeast of the site Description Marked as circular enclosure only on 1841 OS 6-inch map. Bank of enclosure visible as band of yellow clay (Wth 4.5-6m) when ploughed. Circular area (int. diam. 25m).

SMR 34:17 (Appendix H, Figures 3 & 4) Map 34 National Grid 27246,12344 Townland Slaght Classification Moated site (site); 1.75km to the south-east of the site Description Rectangular area (dims. 24m N-S; 23m E-W) defined by flat-bottomed fosse (Wth 2m; D 2-3m) (OPW file). Removed since 1979 but fosse still evident as slight depression.

Evidence for every period of human settlement in Ireland has been found in the vicinity of New Ross. Finds of Neolithic stone axes have been made in Adamstown, Co. Wexford and a Bronze Age Hoard was found ‘near New Ross’ in the 19th century. The hoard contained four pennanular bracelets and a gold fibulae’ (Appendix 1 Appendix H).

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



There is a notable concentration of moated sites and earthwork enclosures in Slaght townland 1.8km to the south-east (Appendix H, Figures 3 & 4). Many earthworks remained intact until recent years (five earthworks are shown on the 1st edition of the OS map 1841) in Slaght. There is a contrasting absence of earthworks in Camlin, Marshmeadows and Stokestown townlands. Unrecorded sites in the vicinity include ‘Brandon Well’ adjacent to Marshmeadows marked on the OS 6-inch map 1939. Nothing further is known of the site and it is not listed in the SMR.

The Archaeological Potential of the Landscape

The Significance of the River Barrow

The River Barrow is tidal in the Marshmeadows area. The area where development is proposed was at one time, covered by the tidal waters of the river.

The River Barrow, with its sister the River Nore, has provided the major artery to the southeast of Ireland for many centuries. It is not possible to gauge the importance of these waterways in the prehistoric times, but in the Viking period the Rivers Barrow and Nore were the main routes to raid south Leinster. One of the principal early Viking fortifications on the River Barrow is believed to have been at Dunrally Fort, Co. Laois. In the Norman period the Rivers Barrow and Nore were of primary importance to the establishment of Norman strongholds at Carlow and Kilkenny. New Ross itself was an early Norman foundation and the town thrived under the over lordship of Earl William Marshall. New Ross was walled in 1265 and in the 13th century New Ross was a major rival of Waterford in the field of international trade. All the provisions of Carlow and Kilkenny passed through New Ross. In the 13th century the ports of New Ross and Waterford jointly accounted for half of all the shipping entering Ireland.

The discovery of two wooden log boats indicates the use of the waterways from prehistoric to medieval times, by people in primitive type boats. One boat was found in 1813 in the ‘bed of the river…near New Ross’, the exact find spot is not recorded. The boat was ’17 feet long 4feet in beam, neatly hollowed out of a single oak’ (Appendix H, Report Appendix 1). A second wood log boat was found in August 1909 ‘about 5 miles below New Ross at Rochestown foreshores’. The canoe was 34 feet long as it presently lies, but fully 2 feet or more is gone from the stern (Appendix H, Report Appendix 1). There are no recorded wrecks of the Viking or Norman period, which can be specifically placed in the River Barrow. No doubt in view of the amount of shipping and the turbulence of the Viking and early Norman period some ships were sunk or lost cargo in the lower stretches of the river. Written records of shipwrecks in this area have been located. The existence of occasional wrecks within the river are identified by buoys, however this cannot be related to specific shipwrecks. It is likely that ships, which grounded on sandbars in the river, were refloated at high tide. The cargos of any such ships would also have been salvageable at low tide. One recorded incident in the River Barrow was the brig ‘The Earl of Sandwich’. In 1765, on a return voyage from the Canary Islands, the ship’s crew mutinied and, having murdered the Captain, loyal crew and passengers, set sail for Bantry Bay, which they reached of 10 December 1765. They then set sail eastwards and abandoning, the ships in a sinking condition took with them 2 tonnes of dollars in a boat. They landed at Fisherstown on the River Barrow and buried 250 bags of dollars on the beach at Fishertown flats close to Dollar Point. They then travelled to New Ross. They eventually travelled to Dublin where they were apprehended. The Duncannon garrison found the buried gold and lodged 250 bags

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



at the Custom’s House at New Ross. The name Dollar Point is derived from this incident.

History of New Ross

The first reference 'in the public records' to New Ross dates to 1210 during a visit by King John when it was called 'the New Bridge, a town of William Marshall'. The fact that a bridge was standing at this date indicates that the town was founded by William Marshal's wife Isabel at a somewhat earlier date, presumably after their marriage in 1189. A date suggested is 1190.

The town grew quickly in prosperity due largely to its deep port, river crossing, large hinterland, the patronage of William Marshal and the relationship of lsabel, as grand-daughter of Dermot McMurrough, with her clansmen.

Throughout its history New Ross was in constant competition for imports with Waterford. 'The first mention of opposition by New Ross came on the 20th August [1215] when [King] John ordered that ships should land at New Ross provided no injury should thereby result to the city of Waterford'. In 1227 only the ships of William Marshall were allowed to go to New Ross all other ships had to dock at Waterford. This continued to be the policy through most of the fourteenth century. Nevertheless, at the end of the thirteenth century, 'the shipping trade of New Ross surpassed that of Waterford, and was indeed ahead of any other port in Ireland'.

The town was not enclosed until 1265. This was in reaction to a deteriorating situation caused by fighting between neighboring clans according to a unique account of the enclosure which exists in the form of a contemporary poem 'in the Norman tongue, preserved in the British Museum. 'Excavation work begins at Candlemas, 2 February 1265, but the gent lowis (hired men) do not perform to the townsfolk's satisfaction, and they resolve that they will undertake the work themselves, with various trades and vocations taking their turns on successive days of the week'. The thirteenth century poem also gives an insight 'to the large number of trades that were found in a bustling colonial settlement, attending to both the internal commodities and services market and to export trade'.

It is likely that the initial work consisted entirely of digging a ditch. Rock lies immediately below the surface for almost the entire landward circuit of the walls and consequently this would have been a large and labour intensive undertaking. It is little wonder therefore that the entire town became involved in the process. Significant progress must have been made, as in 1279 there is a reference to 'The Rent of the town by the Burgesses, from their holdings inside and outside the walls'. In 1308-9, however, 'the Franciscans petitioned that their monastery should be enclosed by the wall'. This was sited at Priory Lane between Priory Street and the riverside and may indicate an extension of the original plan or the continuation of the walling development. Throughout the fourteenth century murage was granted to the town indicating on-going building and or repair. At some point the wall was continued at the south to join up with a citadel or blockhouse near the riverside. The walls survived at least until 1786 when a petition from the sovereign and burgessesdescribe the town as being "surrounded by a wall".

The first bridge was built by William Marshal. This was succeeded by another in 1313 and yet another at some point in the fifteenth century which was destroyed in 1643. Cromwell constructed a temporary bridge in 1649, however, New Ross was without a

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



permanent bridge until 1796, a period of 150 years. The fourth bridge was destroyed in I867 and replaced in 1869. The present bridge was opened in 1967.

The suburb of Rosbercon lay on the opposite side of the river. 'From the early 1200s when both sides of the river were under the same civil administration Rosbercon as regarded as an integral part of William Marshal's town in 1245 and this intimate relationship was radically altered with the partitioning of the Marshal palatinate in Leinster'. 'Rosbercon c. 1257 was a place of considerable importance virtually the port of Kilkenny City'. It has been stated that the foundation charter was granted between 1289 and 1295 and that the borough was probably aligned along the street leading from the bridge towards the Dominican Priory. The importance of the settlement is also indicated in the charter of Gilbert de Clare granted in 1300, which conferred civic rights on the burgesses of Rosbercon which were equal in every way to those enjoyed by the municipality of Kilkenny.

Throughout the centuries New Ross suffered more than most walled towns in Ireland from attacks and burnings as well as the constant struggle with Waterford for the rights of import and never recovered the heights of prosperity, population and development enjoyed in the thirteenth century.


The development as proposed in Figure 3 will have no impact at ground level or for 1m beneath this. If archaeological remains survive in this compacted river mud beneath this level they may be damaged by piles deep drains or pits. There is no evidence that such remains exist but the possibility cannot be ruled out entirely. There is no potential visual impact on any known monument.


If the penetration of structural elements is confined to piles below c. 1m in depth then no particular archaeological mitigation is warranted. If, however the excavation of pits and drains is extensive, below c. 1m (from current ground level) then all excavation below the modern infill will be subject to monitoring by a suitably qualified archaeologist.


The residual impacts are as described under Section 4.8.4.

5.10.7 Interactions with Other Environmental Attrib utes

Landscape and Visual: There are no existing architectural or archaeological features on site which contribute towards the landscape and visual receiving environment.

Noise and Vibration: There are no listed buildings on site which could be affected by construction works in terms of vibrational impact.

5.10.8 Monitoring

Monitoring will be carried out as detailed in Section 5.10.5.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



5.10.9 Reinstatement

Not applicable.

5.10.10 Difficulties Encountered in Compiling this Information

No difficulties were encountered in compiling this information.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



5.11 Material Assets

5.11.1 Traffic

5.11.1.1 Introduction

This chapter aims to assess the potential effects of increased traffic volumes on the existing road network due to the proposed development, and to recommend suitable mitigation measures.

5.11.1.2 Study Assessment and Methodology

An assessment of available local traffic counts was undertaken. The deliveries and dispatch or truck numbers calculated were based on proposed production rates at the plant and assuming that all finished product will be sold directly in Ireland as opposed to shipped abroad.

5.11.1.3 Receiving Environment

Existing Road Network The site is located off the R733 regional road, approximately 1.75 km south of New Ross on the County Wexford shore of the River Barrow.

The proposed development will be accessed by the existing access road linking with the R733.

Existing Traffic Flows A traffic survey carried out in July 2004 on the R733 near the entrance to the Marshmeadows site shows that the road at this point has an existing AADT (Annual Average Daily Traffic – that is the number of vehicles passing this location in 24 hours) of 7,210 vehicles. Taking the traffic flow in the peak hour to be 10% of the AADT the peak hour two-way traffic flow on the R733 at Marshmeadows is currently approximately 720 vehicles.

Existing traffic levels entering and leaving Marshmeadows are currently very low.

5.11.1.4 Characteristics and Impacts of the Proposa l

Construction of the proposed biodiesel plant is expected to be completed in early 2008 and the plant is expected to begin operating then also.

Construction Phase Traffic The phasing of the site development and construction works over a 18 month period will result in only a small number of construction vehicles accessing the site at any given time. Construction access will be via the main entrance to the Marshmeadows site on the R733.

The extent of any impact on traffic and the local road network due to the construction phase of the development will be minor.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



Operational Phase Traffic

Table 5.11.1 sets out the number of trucks per day entering and exiting the facility assuming the following conditions:

• production rates based on 330 days; • all biodiesel will be sold directly in Ireland, and • each truck carries approx. 20 tonnes.

Table 5.11.1 Truck Movements

Delivery/Dispatch Material Tonnes per Year

No. of Trucks

Trucks per Week

Trucks per Day

RVO, tallow and oil

30,000 1,500 28.8 4.12

Methanol 3500 175 4 0.7 Sulphuric acid

400 20 0.4 0.1

Potassium hydroxide

500 25 1 0.1

Raw Material Deliveries

Phosphoric acid

31 1.55 0 0.0

Product Dispatch Biodiesel 9,900* 495 9.5 1.4 Glycerol 3000 150 3 0.6 By-product

Dispatch Fertiliser 550 27.5 1 0.1 Waste for Dispatch

Water 2,900 145.6 2.8 0.4

Total 50,781 2,540 50.5 7.52 *Note: Approx. 66% of the total annual biodiesel produced will be exported.

As set out in the table above, the operation of the new plant will not significantly impact on traffic levels on the surrounding road network.

Parking Provision Adequate parking will be provided at the facility to accommodate employees and visitors.

5.11.1.5 Mitigation Factors and/or Measures

Road sweeping and/or the use of wheel washes will be put in place where required to mitigate dispersal of debris and mud onto the public highway during the construction of the development.

5.11.1.6 Residual Impact

The traffic associated with the proposed development will contribute a negligible increase in traffic levels on the local road network. These increases will not be significant and the traffic relating to the proposed development can be accommodated safely by the road network.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



5.11.1.7 Interactions with other Environmental Attr ibutes

• Air: The volumes of traffic associated with the development will not result in any significant impact on sensitive receptors.

• Noise: Traffic noise associated with the development will not result in any negative impact on receptors near the site.

5.11.1.8 Monitoring

Not applicable.

5.11.1.9 Reinstatement

Not applicable.

5.11.1.10 Difficulties Encountered when Compiling t his Report


For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



5.11.2 Waste Infrastructure


This chapter of the EIS aims to assess the potential effects of waste generation and disposal during both the construction and operational phase of development on the waste management infrastructure of Co. Wexford and to recommend suitable mitigation measures where relevant.


A desk-top study of the relevant documentation was undertaken, which involved the review of the following:

• Wexford County Development Plan, 2007 - 2013; • New Ross Town and Environs Development Plan 2004; • EPA National Waste Report, 2005, and • Joint Waste Management Plan for the South East Region, 2002

(JWMP) (proposed plan 2006).

5.11.2.3 Existing Environment

The EPA has published its report on the state of the environment entitled Ireland’s Environment, 2004. In that report, waste generation (based on 2001 records) is broken down as follows:

Agriculture waste – 76% Manufacturing waste – 7% Construction and demolition waste – 5% Mining waste (plus quarrying in 2001) – 5% Municipal waste – 4% Dredge spoils – 2% Other – 2%

According to the report, the total amount of waste generated in 2001 was 74 million tonnes.

At a national level, the volume of municipal solid waste and non-hazardous waste requiring disposal is increasing, in line with economic development. Municipal waste generation increased by 10% in 2003 however landfilling reduced by 4% while recycling rates for both household and commercial waste increased by 46%. Disposal options continue to decrease, for example the number of landfills has reduced from nearly 80 in 1998 to 35 in 2002. Out of a total of 48 landfills in operation in 2005, 32 accepted 1,824,066 tonnes of municipal waste for disposal. The national available landfill capacity at licensed facilities and as assessed in January 2004 was estimated at 8 years with just two years capacity in the south east. When including for planned facilities at draft license stage the national and south east capacities increase to 10 and 4 years respectively.

Municipal waste generation increased by approximately 4.5% from 2003 to 2005. The landfill of municipal waste increased by 0.3% in 2005 and the recovery of municipal waste by 9%, this results in an overall increase in the rate of municipal recovery from 32.7% in 2004 to 34.6% in 2005, progressing steadily towards the

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:59:59



national target of 35% by 2013. An estimated 1,244,967 tonnes of commercial, or non-household municipal waste, was managed in 2005; representing an increase of 3.5% since 2004. The packaging waste recovery rate also continues to increase from 56% in 2004 to 60% in 2005, exceeding the EU target of 50% recycling in 2005.

To address the waste management crisis in Ireland on a regional basis the JWMP for the South East Region was prepared in accordance with EU and government policy and was adopted during 2002 with the latest Plan proposed in 2006. The main objective of the JWMP is to “secure the best environmental management of all waste including preventing and minimising the generation of waste” and adopts the following hierarchical approach to waste handling – prevention, minimisation, reuse, recycling, energy recovery, and as the least favourable option, disposal.

According to the EPA’s National Waste Database Interim Report, 2002, a total of 52,499 tonnes of municipal waste was generated in Wexford in 2002. Currently, the annual waste input to the Council’s landfill at Killurin is approximately 55,000 tonnes per annum. The latest EPA National Waste Report, 2005 indicates that 46,571 tonnes of household waste was generated in Wexford in 2005. Both Council and Government objectives are to reduce this figure considerably.

RVO/UCO (Recycled Cooking Oil/Used Cooking Oil)

RVO is produced in the catering industry (mainly hotels and restaurants), fast food outlets, food processing companies and domestic houses.

The traditional use of RVO for animal feeds has been affected by EU legislation. RVO was banned as an additive for animal feed in November 2004 due to the full implementation of an EU Directive brought in following the 1999 Belgian dioxin-in-chickens incident, (which was traced to RVO) and by the linking of foot and mouth disease to the feeding of food wastes to animals in the UK.

Current RVO supply of 21,000 tonnes per annum is expected to increase to 30,000 tonnes by 2010, driven largely by population growth, economic activity and tourism. 14,500 tonnes were collected in 2003 with the recovery rate running at 70% of total supply. The recovery rate has and will continue to be driven by a combination of the market price for collected material and the pressure from local Government forcing the producers to adequately dispose of their waste vegetable oil. The realistic recovery rate is expected to be 80% of total supply due to improved methods of collection and implementation of environmental legislation.

RVO collection is dominated by a network of larger players and a range of smaller collectors, with loose affiliations between them.

All RVO currently collected in Ireland is exported to the bio-diesel industries in the EU and the UK.

Providing alternative uses for RVO will result in less risk of surpluses being dumped illegally and will minimise high waste disposal fees. Additionally there is a high complementarity between RVO and Rapeseed as both can be used to make bio-fuels. Using RVO to generate fuel may kick start oilseed rape crop for fuel in Ireland, which could provide a sustainable year round crop for Irish farmers.

If no alternative use for RVO is found in the Republic, two possibilities arise:

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00



� Collection will shrink, and more will be dumped into sewers and landfill.

� It will be exported for bio-diesel production to Northern Ireland or Britain, where a 20p (€0.31c) per litre duty exemption currently exists.

Tallow

Tallow is produced when offal and carcass/butchers wastes are processed at rendering plants. Tallow is used as a supplement in animal feed and has uses in the pharmaceutical industry. Historically, rendering completed the important last step in the livestock/meat industry, converting the carcasses into useful products. However, following BSE concerns over the last few years the entire EU rendering industry has been subject to much change and regulatory pressures. Rendering has moved from a perceived profit-generating step into an essential cost for the overall industry.

Irish rendering plants currently produce 80,000 tonnes of tallow per annum. Meat factories also produce a higher grade of tallow representing an additional 20,000 tonnes of tallow per annum.

Some tallow, namely tallow produced from BSE susceptible materials, is currently used as boiler fuel. Other tallow is sold to the animal feed and pharmaceutical industries. Sales of tallow are set to continue, however, it is becoming increasingly difficult and costly for Irish Renderers to comply with the volume of strict regulations associated with its production.

Effective re-use of Ireland’s tallow for energy represents an opportunity both to reduce dependency on imported fuel (secure supply/improve balance of payments), to reduce carbon emissions (contribute to meeting challenging Kyoto targets) and to boost local economies.

5.11.2.4 Characteristics and Impacts of the Propose d Development

Construction PhasesThe proposal will involve the construction of a biodiesel production facility at Marshmeadows. Scrub and vegetation will be removed off site for disposal; existing soils/subsoils will remain on site.

A small quantity of canteen waste will also be generated during the construction phase which will be removed by an EPA licensed contractor.

Operational Phase The process involves the recycling of waste vegetable oils and tallow, converting them from a low to high value product thus allowing the hierarchy of waste management to be implemented.

The production process has been designed to minimise waste. By-products from the process include fertiliser, glycerine and bioheating oil for which markets exist. The bioheating oil will be used in a mix with gas oil in the on site boiler.

Auxiliary chemicals used in the process are re-captured for re-use.

A small amount of waste will be produced from offices and general day to day activities at the site. This will mainly consist of packaging and canteen waste.

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00



However raw materials will generally be delivered by tanker, thus minimising packaging waste. There will be no reject finished product as material will be returned to the distillation process for further distillation if necessary.


Waste packaging will be separated and recycled thus reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill. Any waste packaging that cannot be recycled will be collected, transported and disposed of in accordance with the Waste Management Act 1996 (Permit) Regulations, 1998.

Reject raw materials will be returned to the supplier.

In the unlikely event that hazardous waste does arise at the facility, it will be handled in accordance with the Waste Management (Hazardous Waste) Regulations, 1998. All waste generated on site will be handled in accordance with the Waste Management (Permit) Regulations, 1998.

A waste management plan will be implemented on site.


Waste generation on site is likely to be minimal. Nevertheless, the mitigation measures listed in Section 5.11.2.5 will further reduce the impact on existing disposal sites, in so far as is possible.

The plant will utilise waste materials therefore the overall impact on the waste infrastructure in Ireland can only be viewed as positive.

5.11.2.7 Interaction with other Environmental Attri butes

• Human Beings: Responsible disposal of waste practices during the operational stage will ensure that impact on residents in the surrounding area is avoided. During the operational phase the disposal of waste will be in accordance with the Waste Management Act, 1996 and the JWMP, 2006.

• Flora & Fauna: Responsible disposal of solid waste will be implemented to avoid disruption of habitats in the area.

5.11.2.8 Monitoring

A waste management plan will most likely be implemented on site in accordance with EPA licensing requirements. This will include for monitoring of waste management activities.


Not applicable.

5.11.2.10 Difficulties Encountered in Compiling thi s Information


For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00



5.11.3 Water Supply and Wastewater Treatment Infra structure


This chapter aims to assess the potential effects of increased water usage on the existing local water network due to the proposed development, and to recommend suitable mitigation measures.


A desk-top study of the relevant documentation was undertaken, which involved the review of the following:

• Wexford County Development Plan, 2007 - 2013;• New Ross Town and Environs Development Plan 2004.

5.11.3.3 Existing Environment

Water Supply

The New Ross water supply scheme currently produces water which is compliant with all required quality standards. The local daily demand currently is estimated at 3400 m3. However this level of consumption is approaching the capacity of the local water treatment plant. Also, the available raw water from the Poulmounty and Dranagh water sources is progressively and dangerously diminishing in dry weather flows.

Stage 2 of the Wexford Water Conservation Scheme, which is approved by the DOEHLG, to enter planning, will provide adequate water supply for New Ross and its environs up to the year 2030.

Wastewater Treatment Infrastructure

Wastewater from the town and its environs is currently collected and discharged untreated though a multiplicity of separate outfall points into the River Barrow. Planning for the construction of a Quay interceptor foul sewer and a wastewater treatment plant are well advanced and are scheduled for construction by late 2008.

5.11.3.4 Characteristics and Impacts of the Propose d Development

Water Supply Network

In the region of 11m3 of water will be required daily for production purposes at the proposed development. Water will not be abstracted from the River Barrow or from groundwater but will be supplied via the existing 150mm water main serving Marshmeadows. The volume of water required for the plant will not significantly impact on the current capacity of the local water supply.

Wastewater Infrastructure

It is proposed to discharge process effluent (approx. 5m3 per day) to the new WWTP which should be completed prior to the completion of the biodiesel plant. The

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00



expected characteristics of the process effluent are described in Tables 3.7 and 3.8 of this EIS. While the concentration of BOD and COD appear to be high, the volume discharged is relatively low and is likely to reduce further. It is unlikely that the envisaged level of VOCs in the wastewater could negatively impact on the functioning of the new WWTP.


Water Usage

The biodiesel production process is designed to be highly water efficient. The use of freshwater has been minimised and where freshwater is required, it will be reused within the process.

A dry cooling tower will be used thus reducing potential water usage by up to 20m3

per day. In addition, the steam and hot water are used in closed cycles i.e. limited quantities of water is spent during the normal operation of the biodiesel process (with the exception of small amounts of boiler blow-down water). Water used for washing of the biodiesel is cleaned and re-used in the wet scrubber system. The process therefore minimises the consumptive use of water and the amount of waste water generated.

WWTP Operation

The characteristics of the effluent will be further identified once the biodiesel plant is commissioned, although Tables 3.7 and 3.8 provide the most important and relevant detail. The wastewater will be drip fed to prevent overloading of the WWTP. It will also be monitored regularly.


Given the mitigation measures listed above, it is not considered that the proposed biodiesel plant will significantly impact on WWTP and potable water supply in the New Ross area.

5.11.3.7 Interaction with other Environmental Attri butes

Interactions between impacts are described above and within the relevant previous chapters of this EIS.

5.11.3.8 Monitoring

Water consumption will be metered in accordance with the New Ross Town and Environs Development Plan 2004. Consumption will also be monitored as part of the licensing conditions of the site.


Not applicable.

5.11.2.10 Difficulties Encountered in Compiling thi s Information


For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00

FiguresFigures

For in

spec

tion p

urpo

ses o

nly.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00

(Regional map)

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00

Proposed Biodiesel Plantat New Ross PortMarshmeadows

Co. Wexford

No.

Job No. Scale. Issue. Chk. Date.

Title.

Bedrock Geology

E 0 477 NTS 01 SM July 07

Figure 6


Marshmeadows, Marshmeadows, New RossNew Ross

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00

Proposed Development

ZONING KEY

R733

Proposed Biodiesel Plantat New Ross PortMarshmeadows

Co. Wexford

No.

Job No. Scale. Issue. Chk. Date.

Title.Noise Monitoring Locations

E 0 477 NTS 01 SM July 07

Figure 7


NM2 (Nearest Noise Receptor)

NM 3

Riv

erB

arro

wNM 1

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00

PlatesPlates

For in

spec

tion p

urpo

ses o

nly.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00

Western boundary

Plate 1:View of Site facing south from northern boundary, 2005

Western boundary

Plate 2: View of site from road facing northwest, 2005

For

insp

ectio

n pur

pose

s only

.

Conse

nt of

copy

right

owne

r req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 25-07-2013:22:00:00