Join SCS Engineers at the 2024 PWS Permian Basin Summit. The Produced Water Society brings together industry-leading speakers such as Neil Nowak to address the produced water issues faced by operators, water midstream companies, and water service providers.
Neil will present “Produced Water Recycling and Evaporation Facilities” as a Roundtable Presentation at the event.
August 13, 2024
2:00 – 3:15 PM
Produced water experts with Permian Basin experience will discuss the existing solutions, technological innovations, and produced water management best practices needed to keep the most productive unconventional shale play in the world pumping hydrocarbons while ensuring sustainable business operations and safeguarding the local environment and freshwater resources.
Join SCS Engineers to solve environmental challenges.
• Carbon Sequestration & Deep Well Injection
• Greenhouse Gas Services
• Oil and Gas Services
Meet with SCS Engineers at the 2024 Railroad Commission (RRC) of Texas Regulatory Conference July 30-31 at the AT&T Hotel and Conference Center to inform the oil and gas sector on the applicable laws, rules, and procedures for hydrocarbon production in Texas.
Join SCS Engineers to solve future energy challenges like:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy announced on June 21st that applications are open for $850 million in federal funding for projects that will help monitor, measure, quantify, and reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sectors. The funding aims to specifically help small oil and natural gas operators reduce methane emissions and transition to available methane emissions reduction technologies, while also supporting partnerships that improve emissions measurement and provide accurate, transparent data to impacted communities.
A competitive solicitation for this funding will enable a broad range of eligible U.S. entities to apply, including industry, academia, non-governmental organizations, Tribes, and state and local governments. This funding opportunity is expected to achieve measurable outcomes for skilled workforce training, community involvement, and environmental justice. Funding applicants are required to submit Community Benefits Plans to demonstrate meaningful engagement with and tangible benefits to the communities in which the proposed projects will be located. These plans must provide details on the applicant’s commitments to community and labor engagement, quality job creation, diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility, and benefits to disadvantaged communities.
The primary objectives of this funding opportunity announcement are to:
1. Help small operators significantly reduce methane emissions from oil and natural gas operations, using commercially available technology solutions for methane emissions monitoring, measurement, quantification, and mitigation.
2. Accelerate the repair of methane leaks from low-producing wells and the deployment of early-commercial technology solutions to reduce methane emissions from new and existing equipment such as natural gas compressors, gas-fueled engines, associated gas flares, liquids unloading operations, handling of produced water and other equipment leakage.
3. Improve communities’ access to empirical data and participation in monitoring through multiple installations of monitoring and measurement technologies while establishing collaborative relationships between equipment providers and communities.
4. Enhance the detection and measurement of methane emissions from oil and gas operations at regional scale, while ensuring nationwide data consistency through the creation of collaborative partnerships. These partnerships will span the country’s oil and gas-producing regions and draw in oil and natural gas owners and operators, universities, environmental justice organizations, community leaders, unions, technology developers, Tribes, state regulatory agencies, non-governmental research organizations, federally funded research and development centers, and DOE’s National Laboratories.
Additional Resources:
1. Read more details of this funding opportunity.
3.GHG Monitoring, Control, Verification, Reporting
Ms. Victoria Evans brings decades of professional expertise in greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) tracking and verification, energy management, air quality, and the environment to SCS Engineers as the National Practice Leader for Climate Change. Her experience derives from her successful work in consulting, R&D, academia, and the federal government for hundreds of projects at global facilities.
“Moving business and municipal operations to integrate a circular economy and practices helps our clients meet their climate change goals. Hiring a consultant firm only, no matter how prestigious, can result in efficiency gaps between the plan and outcomes. Adding Evans to our deep bench of environmental scientists, GHG experts, and waste management engineers enhances our client value with proven results,” states Patrick Sullivan, senior vice president.
Evans has directed or performed hundreds of GHG studies for a diverse set of US and global corporations and governmental organizations, including Vantage, 3M, Comcast, Dow, National Grid, the U.S. Postal Service, Chevron, Tucson Water, and Edwards Air Force Base. Her work involves developing voluntary and mandatory GHG inventories, reporting, California Cap-and-Trade compliance strategies, carbon reduction roadmaps, and life cycle analyses as well.
Her substantial career experience includes environmental impact analysis and air permit support for over 50 facilities, including coal, natural gas, biogas, and biomass-fueled electricity generation and coal syngas facilities. In R&D, Evans developed successful environmental, air quality, and climate research projects with electric utilities on three continents and collaborated with utilities in Finland, Sweden, the Philippines, Italy, Scotland, and France.
Evans led regulatory and legislative analyses involving carbon and energy for landmark initiatives and advised on developing GHG reporting rules and protocols for carbon offset projects.
Educated at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Evans holds a Master of Science in Natural Resource Policy and Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Management. She holds multiple registrations as an Envision Sustainability Professional, a CARB Verifier for Carbon Offset Projects, Climate Action Reserve Certified as Lead for GHG Inventory Reporting, and a State of California Mediator certification.
Evans is a former Air & Waste Management Association Board Member, among other association involvement, and continues to share her knowledge and expertise publicly and for the benefit of many industries and municipalities.
SCS President Curtis Jang says, “We’re excited to have Victoria join SCS. She is uniquely qualified and perfect for leading our specialist climate change practice. We look forward to combining and sharing our expertise for our clients’ continued success.
Resources for Industries Reducing Carbon Dioxide, Methane, and Hazardous Waste:
Join SCS Engineers at the 2024 Connecticut DEEP State Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC) Meeting on June 25th from 9:30 to 11:30 am at DEEP Headquarters. For those who cannot attend in person, you can join via Zoom by registering
SCS Engineer Greg McCarron will be presenting at this event. The SWAC plays a vital role in the successful implementation of Connecticut’s solid waste management plan. The committee’s responsibilities include assisting the Department in executing the plan, identifying emerging issues and proposing solutions, and participating in necessary revisions to the plan. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with industry leaders and contribute to the future of waste management in Connecticut!
Join SCS Engineers at the 2024 SWANA FL Summer Conference, the premier solid waste conference and tradeshow in the Southeast, from July 14-16 at the Rosen Plaza Hotel in Orlando, FL. This event offers a unique opportunity to network with top professionals in the solid waste industry, earn continuing education hours, and experience the vibrancy of International Drive.
The conference agenda will feature engaging sessions and speakers who will discuss the latest advancements in solid waste management. Industry suppliers and service providers will have the chance to showcase their products and services. Don’t miss out on this chance to connect, learn, and grow in your profession. Mark your calendars and register today to join us at Synergy 2024: Uniting to Advance Florida Resource Management!
Several of our professionals are presenting, including:
Laila Al-Khalaf & Stephen Townsend
Surface and Subsurface Landfills Fires
Tuesday, July 16, 1:00 -3:00 pm, Location: Ballroom B
Kayla Ouellette
GIS Technology for Landfills
Tuesday, July 16, 3:30-5:00 pm, Location: Ballroom B
Join SCS Engineers at the Sustainability Delivery Summit from June 24 to June 26 at the Hyatt Regency Boston! This premier event, organized by Environment Analyst, brings together a global community of sustainability leaders with a unified mission: to translate sustainability goals into actionable steps.
Engage with sustainability and business leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from the infrastructure and built environment sectors, along with technical solution providers in environmental consultancy, software, and engineering. This summit will empower you to focus on the delivery of climate commitments, develop collaborative strategies for a sustainable future, find partners to accelerate your sustainability journey, and reinforce the business case for ESG. Don’t miss this chance to be part of the conversation and drive impactful change.
Join SCS Engineers at WASTECON 2024 from October 21st – October 24th at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center! This premier event is the ultimate platform for leaders and engineers to come together, collaborate, and innovate towards a more sustainable future. At WASTECON 2024, you’ll have the chance to connect with SCS Engineers at booth 701. Meet our team of experts and leaders who are at the forefront of advancing sustainable practices in waste management.
Ketan Shah will be presenting Enhancing Landfill Gas (LFG) Modeling Through Emerging Technologies and Data Integration for Emission Reductions and Sustainable Energy on October 22nd from 8:30 – 9:15 am. The presentation will identify emerging technologies for improved LFG modeling, explain the benefits of enhanced LFG modeling for decision-making, and analyze the importance of data collection and integration for effective LFG modeling.
You’ll want to attend David Hostetter’s presentation, Smart Landfills: Transforming Waste Management with Remote Monitoring. Dave will explain how landfill owners and operators are using technology to create more efficient landfill operations.
Jeff Phillips will be presenting Facility Fires: 2AM Isn’t the Time to Make a Plan on October 22nd from 3:15-4:00 pm. This presentation provides an update on fires within the industry and present real-world case studies of fires so that we can learn from other events (the good and bad).
Stacey Dolden will be presenting Navigating Workforce Trends: Understanding and Adapting to Personnel Challenges Across All Job Functions on October 24th from 11am-12:15 pm. The discussion will explore what is happening in the industry and share strategies for effective recruitment and retention for a range of position types and levels.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to bridge the gap between leadership and technology, accelerate transformative change, and gain valuable insights to better serve your stakeholders. Improve your organization and operations while enriching your career and those of your team members. Register today and be a part of the future of sustainability with SCS Engineers at WASTECON 2024. See you at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center!
Open dumpsites have a devastating impact on the environment and public health. Waste Management World spoke to James Law, Chair of the ISWA Landfill Working Group and the Task Force on Closing Dumpsites Initiative, about the key steps and economics of closing dumpsites, the climate benefits, and the pros and cons of biomining.
James Law explains that since the operation of a dumpsite does not include the application of daily cover or waste compaction and also it does not have a bottom liner or gas and leachate collection system, the most common risks are groundwater contamination, fire hazards that could generate black carbon fume and toxic gases to impact the air quality and thus affect the public health in the immediate area or areas miles away in downwind direction.
The gas emissions from open dumpsites have a direct impact on climate change. Then there are odor issues, either from the decomposed waste mass itself or from the leachate seep outbreaks located on the side slopes of a dumpsite. The leachate seeps will impact the surface water bodies such as rivers and lakes nearby in the downstream direction as well as the groundwater below the dumpsite. Most dumpsites have people or informal waste pickers on them. Therefore they have a direct impact on their health and safety point of view.
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New Regulations Impact Environmental Assessments
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently classified perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), commonly known as the “Superfund” law. This new regulation will significantly affect real estate transactions, introducing stringent reporting requirements and complicating liability and insurance matters related to polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination.
Previously, Phase I property investigations did not have to consider evidence of releases of PFOA and PFOS. However, some did as a business risk similar to asbestos shingles or lead paint on woodwork. Now, environmental professionals must identify and report any releases or likely releases of these hazardous substances, which, in some cases, lead to more Phase II environmental sampling and remediation if significant contamination is confirmed.
Undertaking all appropriate inquiries—a Phase I site assessment—is one of several requirements for real estate purchasers to qualify for Superfund landowner liability protections. Others include complying with any reporting obligations and taking reasonable steps with respect to known contamination. Experienced consultants can help address the technical aspects of these requirements, typically working with experienced attorneys to address the legal aspects.
PFOA and PFOS, widely used in various industries due to their heat, water, and oil resistance, can contaminate commercial or industrial properties from various sources, including firefighting foams and PFAS manufacturing plants. During Phase I environmental assessments, evaluating the property’s historical and current use and nearby properties is crucial to identify potential PFAS sources. This analysis guides further investigations, such as Phase II assessments, where specific sampling and analysis can verify PFAS presence and concentration.
The primary mechanisms and pathways through which PFAS are released at industrial facilities typically include discharges of wastewater and stormwater; disposal of solid wastes on and off the site; accidental occurrences like leaks and spills; and stack and fugitive air emissions. Emissions from stacks can lead to the aerial dispersion of PFAS, depositing these substances onto soil and surface water. In some circumstances, PFAS can leach or otherwise contaminate groundwater and potentially migrate offsite.
Facilities Using PFAS in Processes
Secondary manufacturing facilities often utilize fluoropolymers and PFAS-based materials, which are produced at primary manufacturing sites, as part of their industrial processes. This includes applying coatings to finished products.
Chrome Plating: Facilities use PFAS as mist suppressants to minimize chromium emissions into the air, enhancing air quality and worker safety. Facilities employ PFAS as mist suppressants to reduce chromium emissions into the air, thereby improving air quality and enhancing worker safety. According to the USEPA (2021), half of the 1,339 chromium electroplating facilities in the United States continue to use PFAS-based mist and fume suppressants. Chrome electroplating is identified as the primary industrial process where PFAS is significantly used. In this method, PFAS function as surfactants, lowering the surface tension of the electrolyte solution.
Textiles and Leather Production: Manufacturers of performance fabrics for outdoor gear and military uniforms often use PFAS to provide water, stain, and fire resistance. Similarly, PFAS are applied in the leather tanning process to improve the water and stain resistance of products like furniture and clothing.
Electronics Manufacturing: PFAS are utilized for their heat- and chemical-resistant properties when producing circuit boards and semiconductors, ensuring the longevity and reliability of these components.
Maintenance and Mechanical Areas
Lubricants and Greases: Industries such as automotive and machinery maintenance use PFAS-enhanced lubricants and greases for their ability to withstand extreme temperatures and reduce wear and friction, which are crucial for protecting machinery under harsh conditions.
High-Temperature Applications: PFAS compounds are included in formulations used in industrial ovens, automotive wheel bearings, and several types of valves and pumps to maintain performance under extreme heat.
Commercial and Research Uses
Commercial Properties: Facilities such as kitchens, laundries, and workshops might have used PFAS-containing products like sealants and adhesives, leading to potential soil or groundwater contamination from spills or improper disposal.
Aerospace and Defense: Beyond firefighting foams, these sectors may use PFAS in applications like coated fabrics and specialty hydraulic fluids.
Research Facilities: These may experience contamination from PFAS due to spills or disposal practices during experimental or development phases.
Special Applications and Adjacent Properties
Hydraulic Fluids and Special Equipment: PFAS are crucial in applications requiring non-reactivity and thermal stability, such as in hydraulic systems of aircraft and high-temperature industrial settings, or in vacuum pumps.
Adjacent Contamination: Properties neighboring PFAS-utilizing facilities can also become contaminated through runoff or subsurface water flow, highlighting the need for comprehensive environmental assessments.
Paints, Varnishes, and Inks: PFOS-related chemicals are utilized in several ways within paints and varnishes. They serve as wetting, leveling, and dispersing agents and are also used to enhance gloss and antistatic properties. Furthermore, these chemicals are employed as additives in both dyes and inks.
Architectural Fabrics: PFAS, including fluoropolymers such as PTFE, are used in the manufacture of architectural fabrics, such as those used in the construction of roof domes, including large stadiums and transportation facilities.
Enforcement Discretion
EPA is aware that many public institutions, such as municipal landfills and wastewater treatment plants, do not have a choice when they receive household waste containing PFAS. EPA’s PFAS Discretion Memo lists several factors the EPA will consider when determining not to pursue an entity for PFAS response actions or costs under CERCLA. PFAS Discretion Memo
The widespread use and environmental persistence of PFAS underscore the importance of thorough environmental assessments to identify potential contamination sources. Understanding the extensive applications and potential pathways of PFAS contamination is crucial for effective management and remediation strategies in environmental assessments.
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