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It's time to wise up on IPPC. In the first of a series of articles helping you prepare for the new environmental rules, Gilly Johnson gives an overview of these major changes
UK poultry producers can't be blamed for viewing the arrival of Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) legislation with a sinking heart. The prospect of more red tape and what is expected to be a complicated application procedure is bad enough; a hefty compulsory registration fee and annual charge compound the agony.
But these regulations were inevitable and so IPPC principles should be embraced positively, says Rob Robinson, agricultural policy manager with the Environment Agency (EA). Going through the application process could even help a business focus on improved efficiency, greater cleanliness and more professional operation systems - all of which are good news for any installation, he argues.
"Don't be daunted and don't panic. Make the most of the opportunity. Use IPPC as a means of scrutinising the production process and making management improvements. Achieving a permit will help demonstrate to the public that the business aims to reduce pollution and protect the environment."
A wide range of other EU industries has already complied with these EU environmental requirements, he says.
After all, it could have been worse for the poultry industry. The application procedure has been simplified after discussions between the NFU, the EA and industry bodies. Initially, there was concern that producers might have to employ a consultant to guide the business through IPPC permit applications. The EA is working to ensure that this should not be necessary.
Costs may seem high, but they are lower than the original estimates, says the NFU. And the industry has had time to prepare for the legislation, reckons Mr Robinson. "It could have been implemented back in 2001, but was delayed. So it should not come as too much of a shock now."
IPPC IN SUMMARY
WHAT IS IPPC?
Integrated Pollution Prevention...