Mining Sector
GHG Emission Intensity Benchmark Study for Open-pit Coal Mines
Dr. Rakesh Singh collaborated with Ramboll, a prominent engineering and consultancy firm, on an impactful project commissioned by the British Columbia Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. This initiative aimed to establish a greenhouse gas (GHG) emission intensity benchmark for open-pit metallurgical coal mines in British Columbia. The study focused specifically on emissions associated with the production of high-grade metallurgical coal, which is essential for steelmaking and is mainly exported as "seaborne coal."
Metallurgical coal, used in steel production, is classified into hard coking coal (HCC), semi-soft coking coal (SSCC), and pulverized coal injection (PCI) coal, based on its grade and suitability for steelmaking processes. Unlike thermal coal, which is used for electricity generation, metallurgical coal from BC's large open-pit mines is predominantly exported, contributing significantly to international steel production.
In defining the scope, the study focused on large industrial facilities producing metallurgical coal, characterized by emissions exceeding 10,000 tonnes (t) of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e). Currently, British Columbia does not produce thermal or underground coal from large facilities, making open-pit metallurgical coal mining the primary target for emission intensity benchmarking.
Dr. Singh and Ramboll's team conducted an in-depth analysis, which delivered valuable insights into the GHG emission intensity specific to metallurgical coal production. The findings provided essential data to help BC advance its climate objectives by highlighting emission trends and identifying opportunities to reduce GHG emissions within the coal mining sector. The benchmark study supports BC’s climate strategy by informing sustainable resource management efforts and contributes to the broader dialogue on balancing industrial productivity with climate commitments..
Inverse Modelling to Quantify Area Fugitive Emissions from Oil Sands
As Project Manager and Technical Lead for a pivotal study conducted by Alberta Environment and Parks, Dr. Rakesh Singh oversaw the quantification of area fugitive emissions from a large oil sands mine using inverse dispersion modelling with pre-existing datasets. This project addressed a key challenge in emissions management—accurately estimating fugitive CO₂ and CH₄ emissions from large area sources in the oil sands sector.
The study’s primary objective was to investigate various factors that may individually or collectively affect the accuracy of emission estimates derived from inverse dispersion modelling. This approach leverages atmospheric measurements and dispersion patterns to deduce emission levels, a method that is especially relevant in monitoring vast and complex sites like oil sands mines. By examining specific variables that could skew results, Dr. Singh's team aimed to enhance the reliability and precision of quantifying these emissions.
In addition to analyzing influencing factors, Dr. Singh led the development of a protocol document, designed as a comprehensive guide for planning and executing emission modeling or monitoring activities. This protocol established standardized procedures to ensure accuracy in quantifying fugitive CO₂ and CH₄ emissions, thereby setting a consistent and reliable framework for future applications within the oil sands industry.
Through his leadership, Dr. Singh significantly advanced the methodologies for estimating and monitoring fugitive emissions, directly supporting environmental management practices and regulatory compliance efforts within the oil sands sector. The project’s insights and the established protocol contribute valuable tools and knowledge for improving environmental performance and addressing emissions challenges in Alberta’s oil sands industry.
Air Modelling Support to GHGSat for Fugitive Sources
Dr. Rakesh Singh served as Project Manager and Technical Lead, providing crucial air modelling support to GHGSat, an innovative Canadian company based in Montreal that launched the world's first satellite dedicated to monitoring GHG emissions and air quality from industrial sites globally. Dr. Singh’s role focused on applying advanced air modelling techniques to help GHGSat accurately monitor and measure GHG emissions from specific fugitive sources, which are unintentional emissions released during industrial operations.
Through his expertise, Dr. Singh contributed to GHGSat's mission by enhancing the satellite's capability to pinpoint and quantify emissions from fugitive sources, offering a unique, real-time view of industrial emissions that support climate change mitigation and air quality management efforts worldwide. His leadership in this project underscored his commitment to advancing environmental monitoring technologies, driving forward GHGSat's groundbreaking efforts to tackle global challenges in GHG emissions and air pollution.
Development of Methods to Quantify PM Emissions in Columbia
Dr. Rakesh Singh contributed significantly to environmental research by developing methods to estimate Total Suspended Particulate (TSP), PM10, and PM2.5 emission factors, along with annual emissions, from coal mining operations in three key locations in Colombia: El Descanso, La Loma, and Rincón Hondo. These efforts targeted quantifying emissions from coal mining activities, providing critical insights into particulate matter (PM) pollution—a pressing environmental concern, as smaller particles, particularly PM2.5, pose substantial risks to human health.
Dr. Singh’s approach involved comprehensive data collection and analysis to determine emission factors for TSP, PM10, and PM2.5 specific to coal mining in the identified Colombian regions. By establishing these emission factors, he provided a detailed estimation of the particulate matter released into the atmosphere, enabling a clearer understanding of the environmental footprint of these mining operations. Additionally, his quantification of annual emissions helped to assess the cumulative impact of mining on local air quality over time.
The methods developed by Dr. Singh serve as a valuable resource for stakeholders, policymakers, and environmental agencies in formulating effective policies and strategies to mitigate PM emissions in coal mining regions. His work aids in advancing regulatory efforts, promoting sustainable practices, and ultimately protecting public health by helping to maintain air quality standards in Colombia’s coal mining regions.
Air Quality Assessment for a Copper Mine in China
As a technical lead for the air quality assessment at a copper mine in China, Dr. Rakesh Singh guided the estimation of emissions from both fugitive and mobile sources, focusing on Total Suspended Particulate (TSP), PM10, and PM2.5 emission factors. Dr. Singh oversaw the development of a detailed emission inventory that included emissions from fugitive sources, such as dust generated during mining activities, and mobile sources, including mining equipment and transport vehicles.
In this role, Dr. Singh led the determination of specific emission factors for TSP, PM10, and PM2.5 from these sources, meticulously calculating emissions based on activity levels and other key parameters to ensure accurate and representative estimates. His work provided a thorough assessment of the particulate emissions associated with the copper mining operations, identifying critical areas of impact on air quality.
Additionally, Dr. Singh prepared comprehensive reports that outlined the findings of the air quality assessment, presented detailed emission estimates, and highlighted any areas of concern. He provided actionable recommendations for mitigation measures and strategies to effectively reduce particulate emissions and enhance air quality around the mining site. Through his leadership and technical expertise, Dr. Singh significantly contributed to advancing air quality management practices in the mining industry, supporting both regulatory compliance and environmental sustainability.
Method to Estimate Emissions from Mine Vent Shaft Release
Dr. Rakesh Singh has been deeply involved in multiple mining projects across Ontario, where he has notably contributed to environmental management by developing an innovative method to address emissions challenges associated with mine vent shaft releases. This pioneering method, created in collaboration with the Ontario Mining Association, reflects a significant advancement in understanding and managing emissions from these sources, which are crucial for both regulatory compliance and environmental health.
In his role, Dr. Singh led the development of this approach to improve the assessment and reduction of emissions originating from mine vent shafts, which play a substantial role in the overall environmental impact of mining operations. His work emphasizes a commitment to sustainable mining practices and aligns with stringent environmental standards, highlighting his dedication to fostering environmental stewardship within the industry. Through these accomplishments, Dr. Singh has advanced Ontario's mining sector’s approach to emissions management, reinforcing sustainable practices and enhancing regulatory adherence in mining operations.