Environmental
Compliance Approvals in Ontario
An Environmental Compliance
Approval is vital for almost every business that operates in Ontario. The
Environmental Protection Act (EPA) ensures that every business with processes
or systems that release contaminants into the environment will require an
Environmental Compliance Approval from the Ministry of the Environment in order
to operate legally in the province.
In defining a "contaminant,” the
EPA also includes noise and vibrations. This refers to contaminants that are
released into the air, land and water. The requirement to apply for and receive
an Environmental Compliance Approval is designed to
allow the Ministry of the Environment to
track and limit the amount of pollutants that are released into the
environment. It also provides a means to determine liability if a business
violates the approval in any manner.
There are some common systems
and processes that the Ministry of the Environment has pre-approved for safe
operation under normal conditions. If
the business uses any of these systems or processes they will be able to simply
register these systems with the
Environmental
Activities and Sector Registry if all Activity and
Operating Requirements are met. This allows businesses to bypass the
normal approval process for those specific systems. Pre-approved systems
include:
-
Heating systems;
-
Standby power systems (such as
generators);
-
Automotive finishing
facilities;
-
Lithographic, screen and
digital printing facilities;
-
Small solar facilities; and
-
Non-hazardous waste
transportation.
There have been additional systems added to the registry
recently, but the systems that can be registered are still relatively small.
For all other equipment it is necessary to apply for an Environmental
Compliance Approval for the business and facility.
Applying for
Environmental Compliance Approval
An application for Environmental
Compliance Approval will require evidence that the facility can meet the
minimum requirements in terms of operating regulations. This will include
evidence to show that the levels of emissions for pollutants, noise and
vibration are within those allowed under Section 9 of the EPA.
Completing an Environmental Compliance Approval Request
Hiring the services of an
independent environmental consulting company is often the best way to prepare
for an Environmental Compliance Approval application. These companies consist
of experts who will be able to conduct the different audits (Air, waste, water,
noise) necessary to prove compliance with the various regulations in Ontario.
The regulations are subject to change quickly and environmental consultants are
always up-to-date on the latest changes to municipal, provincial and federal
legislation.
In the event that the business
fails to show compliance with any of the regulations, an environmental consulting
company will be able to suggest an expert plan for remediation to achieve
compliance.
Choose an environmental consulting company that will work to
develop a strong business relationship that promotes repeat business. Trust a
reputable environmental consultant to secure an Environmental Compliance
Approval for your business today.