Emissions Monitoring and Reporting

Industrial emissions monitoring and reporting requirements are specified when an approval is issued to operate a facility. The requirements may vary depending on the substance being monitored, and the size and nature of the industrial facility. Emissions monitoring can include in-stack and fugitive emissions.

In-stack emission monitoring, can be one of two types of monitoring:

Manual stack surveys, which are conducted by specially trained personnel who use stack-sampling equipment to collect samples from the stack. The reference methods for sampling are contained in the Alberta Stack Sampling Code
       or
Continuous emission monitoring (CEM) is conducted with proven continuous monitoring technology and the instruments are permanently installed on the stack. Online reporting of monitoring data is available for CEM Operators. The requirements for continuous emissions monitoring can be found in the Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS) Code.

Fugitive emission monitoring is required by approvals to detect leaks in process equipment and piping. Prompt corrective actions such as repair or replacement of the faulty equipment are required.

Emissions monitoring data are incorporated into Air Emission Inventories that are used to determine present and future effects of emissions on air quality.

Specified Gas Reporting is another aspect of emissions monitoring and reporting in Alberta that will allow the province to develop a better understanding of its greenhouse gas sources.

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