Pollutant release and transfer register

Pollutant Release and Transfer Register (PRTR) is a system that collects and disseminates information about environmental releases and transfers of pollutants from industrial sites. PRTRs are implemented by many countries and international organizations to provide transparency and encourage companies to reduce their environmental impact.

Overview

A PRTR is a database or inventory of pollutants released to air, water and soil and transferred off-site for treatment or disposal. PRTRs are based on reports submitted by industries and other sources, such as waste treatment facilities. The data is made available to the public in a searchable format, often through a website.

History

The concept of a PRTR was first introduced in the United States in 1986 with the creation of the Toxic Release Inventory (TRI). The success of the TRI led to the adoption of PRTR systems in other countries and by international organizations. The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) adopted the Protocol on PRTRs in 2003, which provides a framework for the establishment and implementation of PRTRs.

Implementation

PRTRs are implemented at the national level, with each country establishing its own system for data collection and dissemination. The specific pollutants covered by a PRTR and the thresholds for reporting vary by country. In general, PRTRs cover a wide range of pollutants, including heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and greenhouse gases.

Benefits

PRTRs provide numerous benefits, including increased transparency, improved environmental management, and enhanced public participation in environmental decision-making. By making information about pollutant releases and transfers publicly available, PRTRs can help to identify pollution hotspots, track trends in pollutant releases and transfers, and evaluate the effectiveness of pollution control measures.

Challenges

Despite their benefits, PRTRs also face several challenges. These include ensuring the accuracy and completeness of data, maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive information, and ensuring that the data is understandable and accessible to the public.

See also

• Environmental impact assessment
• Environmental management system
• Environmental policy
• Environmental regulation

‎