Waste Management Sector
Rail vs Road Emissions for a Waste Management Company
Dr. Rakesh Singh conducted a comprehensive assessment of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with the transportation of solid waste for a waste management company. This evaluation focused on comparing different modes of transport, specifically analyzing the emissions generated by rail and road transportation.
The study aimed to quantify the carbon footprint of each transportation method by considering various factors such as distance, load capacity, fuel efficiency, and emission factors specific to each mode. Dr. Singh employed a systematic approach, utilizing data from the company's operational records and established emission calculation methodologies to derive accurate estimates of GHG emissions linked to solid waste transportation.
The findings of this assessment equipped the waste management company with valuable insights into the environmental impact of their transportation choices. Based on this analysis, Dr. Singh delivered actionable recommendations aimed at optimizing waste transport logistics. He suggested strategies for transitioning to more sustainable transport modes, thereby minimizing the overall carbon footprint associated with solid waste management operations. This work not only underscored the importance of adopting greener transportation practices but also supported the company's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship in its waste management processes.
Air Quality Impact Assessment from Waste-to-Energy Facility
Dr. Rakesh Singh led the air quality assessment for a proposed waste-to-energy facility in Chester, Nova Scotia, which is designed to convert waste plastics into liquid fuel via pyrolysis. His role involved evaluating emissions from the facility's combustion sources, specifically the three reactors and a flare. The assessment focused on how these emissions compared with the maximum permissible levels established by Nova Scotia Air Quality Regulations.
The facility’s operational design emphasizes a closed-loop system, where non-condensable gases from the pyrolysis process serve as the primary fuel for the reactors. During the startup and shutdown phases, propane is utilized as a backup fuel. In addition to evaluating emissions from the primary combustion sources, the assessment also accounted for fugitive emissions from auxiliary activities, such as cooling towers, material handling, and hauling operations. This comprehensive approach ensures a thorough understanding of the facility's environmental impact.
Emissions from Waste Management Off- and On-road Vehicle Fleet
Dr. Rakesh Singh contributed to the estimation of emissions generated by Waste Service Inc. (WSI) vehicle fleet from a proposed waste management site. This involved analyzing the various sources of emissions from WSI's operations, which include diesel and gasoline vehicles used for waste collection and transportation.
The assessment aimed to quantify the greenhouse gas (GHG) and criteria air contaminant emissions associated with the fleet's operations. By employing established methodologies and emission factors, Dr. Singh's work provided essential data for the environmental impact assessment, supporting WSI's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and enhancing sustainability practices within its waste management activities.
Air Quality Assessment for a Landfill Expansion Site
Dr. Rakesh Singh played a significant role in estimating emissions from off-road vehicles and equipment as part of the air quality assessment for an environmental assessment (EA) related to a landfill expansion. This analysis involved examining various operating scenarios for off-road machinery commonly used in landfill operations, such as compactors, loaders, and haul trucks. By evaluating emissions under different activity levels and operational conditions, he provided a thorough understanding of how potential changes in landfill activities could impact air quality.
The work required the application of specific emission factors and modeling techniques to quantify emissions of particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), and greenhouse gases (GHGs) from the off-road equipment fleet. This detailed estimation was essential for predicting potential air quality impacts of the landfill expansion and supported the EA process by enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions on mitigation measures and emission reduction strategies to minimize environmental impacts.
Air Quality Assessment for a Wastewater Facility
Dr. Rakesh Singh served as a technical lead in performing dispersion modeling using the CALPUFF model for a wastewater treatment facility in Toronto. The objective was to assess the effectiveness of proposed abatement strategies in controlling emissions from the facility. By applying CALPUFF, a sophisticated model suitable for simulating pollutant dispersion over complex terrain and various meteorological conditions, he was able to simulate the behavior of pollutants and evaluate the predicted reductions under different abatement scenarios.
This analysis provided valuable insights into how each abatement strategy would impact air quality within and around the facility, enabling stakeholders to identify the most effective emission control measures. Dr. Singh’s work contributed to the development of a comprehensive emission management plan that aligned with local air quality standards and supported regulatory compliance efforts.