Odour and Airborne Pollution from Waste Facilities

Many waste management facilities have the potential to produce unpleasant odours and other airborne pollution. Good practice requirements are normally incorporated into the terms of waste licences. Pollution control standards are now much more stringent than in the past and waste management facilities are highly regulated in terms of design, operation and permitted emissions. Emissions to the atmosphere and discharges of effluent, although controlled by pollution control authorities, are material considerations to the determination of a planning application. Normally, small container banks should not present a problem although they must be emptied and cleaned frequently. The Department will consult the relevant licensing authority (currently the District Council) for advice on this issue.