By Eamonn Ryan, from the transcript
At the HFC Phase Down Workshop hosted by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) on 16/17 September, Martin Botha, a project manager at A-Thermal presented on the topic of ‘Ozone depleting substances (ODS) destruction facilities in South Africa’. The following is his presentation. This is Part 2 of a five-part article.
Operational practices
Since its inception in 2004 and operational start in 2009, the facility has successfully destroyed 10 tons each of R11 and R12 refrigerants, with ongoing inquiries for R22.
The facility’s operational practices emphasise:
- Maintaining high temperatures: Ensuring that temperatures in the incineration and oxidation processes are sufficiently high to guarantee complete destruction of the ODS.
- Emission monitoring: Rigorous monitoring of HCl and HF levels to remain within regulatory limits. This is crucial for maintaining environmental and public health standards.
- Integrated management system: The facility adheres to ISO standards for quality (ISO 9001), environmental management (ISO 14001), and occupational health and safety (ISO 45001). This integrated approach ensures that all aspects of facility operation meet stringent requirements and stakeholder expectations.
To enhance transparency, the facility reports to the Global Waste Assessment System (GWAS). This system ensures that the facility’s operations and destruction processes are documented and accessible, promoting accountability and adherence to best practices.
Botha’s presentation provided a comprehensive overview of how South Africa is managing the destruction of ozone-depleting substances through robust legislation and advanced technologies. The facility’s use of rotary kiln incineration and thermal oxidation exemplifies the country’s commitment to environmental protection and regulatory compliance. By adhering to international standards and maintaining rigorous operational practices, South Africa continues to address the challenges posed by hazardous waste and contribute to global environmental sustainability.
Botha emphasised the complex nature of handling and destroying ODS during his presentation. He described the facility as more than just a waste management site, highlighting its role as a sophisticated chemical processing plant.
Chemical processing dynamics
Unlike typical waste disposal, which might involve everyday items, the destruction of chemicals such as pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and industrial chemicals—along with ODS—requires special considerations. These substances often have toxic properties, flammability, and highly reactive components, including acids and oxidants. Therefore, handling these materials involves meticulous procedures to ensure safety and compliance.