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Possible Direction of Research and Development Relating to Chemistry for the Protection of the Environment
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POSSIBLE DIRECTION OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT RELATING TO CHEMISTRY FOR THE PROTECTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
CHAIRMAN: D R W. J. LACY COCHAIRMAN: D R B. A. BOLT0 RAPPORTEURS: D R R. J . MARTIN, D R P. SEREICO
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
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On Thursday afternoon of 22nd September 1983 in the Ecole Nationale Superieur de Chimie of Tolouse, a meeting was held to discuss the possible direction of research and development relating to chemistry for the protection of the environment. Following the presentation of Paul Sabatier Medals to Mr. W.J. Lacy and Dr. L. Pawlowski, Mr. L. Lacy took the chair. The Chairman told the international group assembled that those present were there as individuals rather than as representatives of particular organizations and therefore personal opinions, and not collective viewpoints, were to be a feature of the session. Fifteen delegates had been invited to speak. Each of these speakers was limited to a time of five minutes. The following represents a summary of the statement of each speaker. (i) Dr. F. ElGohary (Egypt)
Dr. El-Gohary stated that although the last thirty years had seen extensive progress in the protection of water resources from pollution, we were entering an era in which conventional treatment processes were not fully adequate. Research and development in new chemical treatment processes together with a greater emphasis on treatment efficiency were considered necessary. Minimization of waste of raw materials, maximization of recycling of wastewater and optimization of energy usage were cited in the need for greater efficiency. (ii) Dr. L. P. Jackson (USA)
Dr. Jackson stated that long term problems in water and air pollution would result from the world’s accelerating hunger for energy unless industrial energy processes could be adequately controlled. Whilst those engineers in the energy business are concerned with the impact of harmful chemicals on the environment, improved communication between chemical engineers and environmental chemists would help to place that control on a more technical and objective basis. (iii) Dr. R . J. Martin (UK)
Dr. Martin stated that since the middle 1970’s, the world had witnessed an energy crisis, inflation and industrial recession. Perhaps neqer as before therefore, it must be shown that environmental standards in general, and the reasons leadhg to the formulation of these standards, haae a sound economic basis. Every penny must conunt and what is more, it should be seen to be counted. A sense of perspective must be maintained therefore in order to prevent the introduction of standards for which sound technical and economic support cannot be shown. (iv) Dr. P. Sereico (USA)
Dr. Sereico stated that concern in the USA and elsewhere in the world over the pro-
618
duction of trihalomethanes in the chlorination of water supply should lead to a logical evaluation of chlorination in both water and wastewater treatment. The benefits of chlorination should be contrasted with the long term health risks associated with chlorinated organic compounds. Alternatives to chlorinating agents would have to be found if those health risks were judged to be unacceptable. (v) Dr. B. A. Bolto (Australia)
Dr. Bolto stated that there was a need for new water and wastewater treatment processes. In developed countries, lower capital costs would characterize these new processes whereas in developing countries the emphasis would be on appropriate technology. Greater attention should be given to the recycling of products from wastewaters and to the removal of heavy metals from wastewater sludges. The significance of water supply for agriculture in Australia meant that methods of removal of salts and turbidity should be explored. (vi) Dr. A. Hamza (Egypt)
Dr. Hamza stated that the monitoring of wastes was a major concern worldwide and that in the future, there should be more attention paid to the monitoring of industrial and domestic wastewater treatment processes. Industry from developed countries was welcome in Egypt, but overseas aid, employment and commercial growth should not obscure responsibility over the impact of hazardous wastes on the environment. (vii) Dr. R. Ben Aim (France)
Dr. Ben Aim stated that wastewater treatment commonly involved the treatment of dilute aqueous systems. Research should consider the behaviour of micropollutants in dilute systems. Increasing use of physicochemical processes in wastewater treatment and increasing use of biological processes in water treatment has resulted in increasing similarity in water and wastewater treatment. Greater emphasis on the optimization of treatment plant operation should be of priority. (viii) Dr. L. Pawlowski (Poland)
Dr. Pawlowslu stated that treatment processes should become cheaper and more efficient. In order that these objectives could be met, a greater understating of the mechanisms by which these treatment processes removed particular pollutants was necessary. This understating could only result from greather chemical knowledge of the processes, the pollutants and their inter-relationships. (ix) Dr. G . N. Pandey (India)
Dr. Pandey stated that numerous research objectives were necessary in Iqdia. The significance of agriculture was stressed in that research should investigate the environmental impact of pesticides and fertilizers; a balance between energy use and environmental degradation should be sought in the production of food. Industrial waste treatment, corrosion research and the development of low energy technology were all of importance, as was the need to improve greater communication between environmental scientists and the medical profession so that the effects of organic pollutants on human system could be understood.
619 (x) Dr. L. H. Wang (Taiwan)
Dr. Wang highlighted areas of concern in Taiwan. The extremely high population density means that waste disposal is of major importance; disposal of solid wastes is hindered by shortage of land. Air pollution problems have been encountered; the presence of the highly toxic dioxin has been observed. The presence of nuclear energy plants has resulted in the discharge of nuclear wastes into seawater; research should consider the polluting effects of such wastes on seawater and its ecology. (xi) Dr. L. Liberti (Italy)
Dr. Liberti reported on two on-going research projects in Italy. One project is studying the interception of wastes from towns on the Adriatic coast; ammoniacal nitrogen and phosphates present in effluents are being converted to ammonium phosphate fertilizers. The benefits are two-fold: fertilizer production and clean-up of the Adriatic Sea. The second project is studying the re-use of wastewater for agriculture; large maturation ponds are used to collect and store effluents. Sunlight has been observed to inactivate viruses. (xii) Dr. U. Zoller (Israel)
Dr. Zoller felt that the essential issue was not what can be done in future years; it is what should be done. Decisions on what should be done depend on economy and various social constraints. The future should see greater emphasis on environmental education and ultimate disposal of pollutants; inadequate information is at present available on the final effects of pollutants on the world ecosystem. (xiii) Dr. V. Soldatov (USSR)
Dr. Soldatov welcomed the conference and the fact that it had become a tradition for environmental scientists throughout the world since its conception in the mid-1970’s. However, the broadness of the conference was questioned; a more specific theme for each biennal conference was opined to be desirable. (xiv) Dr. H. Zimny (Poland)
Dr. Zimny stated that in the last thirty years, the emission of oxides of nitrogen and sulphur had significantly increased. Research was necessary to investigate the effects of such air pollution on soil and the plants and animals living in and on thnt soil. ( x v ) M r . L. Roland ( U K )
Mr. Roland reminded the assembled delegates that he, as a representative of industry, was in a minority surrounded by academic researchers. The economicl facts of life in industry meant that future research and development should be conducted with economic realism and without courting hysteria from pressure groups and the media. The Chairman then invited comments from other delegates present for the discussion session. Dr. A. L. Kowal (Poland) wanted to see more research on the utilization of wastewater carried out; re-use of water and recovery of products would be an investment for the future. Dr. A. Trier (Chde) pointed out the need for air pollution standards in de-
620
veloping countries. Various unidentified speakers stressed the need for the use of nontoxic products in agricultural applications, the significance of acid precipitation arising from air pollution and the importance of international co-operation in the fight against environmental pollution. In his summing up, the Chairman concluded that the session had been of immense value; environmental problems likely to occur within the next five years had been identified by the internationally recognized experts assembled. The solution of these problems would be aided by communication and informed collaboration; the biennial conference would continue as a valuable forum for such communication involving the sharing of problems and courses of remedial action. The value of a conference of this sort is to present ideas and findings so as to avoid duplication of effort, add to the general knowledge while helping the other fellow solve his problem. This meeting had two purposes: 1. Formal presentations, and much more valuable 2. ”eyeball to eyeball” contact between individuals. There is no way to establish a dollar value for an idea and if we all left the conference with one more idea than we had the conference was a success.
POSSIBLE DIRECTION OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT RELATING TO CHEMISTRY FOR THE PROTECTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
CHAIRMAN: D R W. J. LACY COCHAIRMAN: D R B. A. BOLT0 RAPPORTEURS: D R R. J . MARTIN, D R P. SEREICO
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
617
On Thursday afternoon of 22nd September 1983 in the Ecole Nationale Superieur de Chimie of Tolouse, a meeting was held to discuss the possible direction of research and development relating to chemistry for the protection of the environment. Following the presentation of Paul Sabatier Medals to Mr. W.J. Lacy and Dr. L. Pawlowski, Mr. L. Lacy took the chair. The Chairman told the international group assembled that those present were there as individuals rather than as representatives of particular organizations and therefore personal opinions, and not collective viewpoints, were to be a feature of the session. Fifteen delegates had been invited to speak. Each of these speakers was limited to a time of five minutes. The following represents a summary of the statement of each speaker. (i) Dr. F. ElGohary (Egypt)
Dr. El-Gohary stated that although the last thirty years had seen extensive progress in the protection of water resources from pollution, we were entering an era in which conventional treatment processes were not fully adequate. Research and development in new chemical treatment processes together with a greater emphasis on treatment efficiency were considered necessary. Minimization of waste of raw materials, maximization of recycling of wastewater and optimization of energy usage were cited in the need for greater efficiency. (ii) Dr. L. P. Jackson (USA)
Dr. Jackson stated that long term problems in water and air pollution would result from the world’s accelerating hunger for energy unless industrial energy processes could be adequately controlled. Whilst those engineers in the energy business are concerned with the impact of harmful chemicals on the environment, improved communication between chemical engineers and environmental chemists would help to place that control on a more technical and objective basis. (iii) Dr. R . J. Martin (UK)
Dr. Martin stated that since the middle 1970’s, the world had witnessed an energy crisis, inflation and industrial recession. Perhaps neqer as before therefore, it must be shown that environmental standards in general, and the reasons leadhg to the formulation of these standards, haae a sound economic basis. Every penny must conunt and what is more, it should be seen to be counted. A sense of perspective must be maintained therefore in order to prevent the introduction of standards for which sound technical and economic support cannot be shown. (iv) Dr. P. Sereico (USA)
Dr. Sereico stated that concern in the USA and elsewhere in the world over the pro-
618
duction of trihalomethanes in the chlorination of water supply should lead to a logical evaluation of chlorination in both water and wastewater treatment. The benefits of chlorination should be contrasted with the long term health risks associated with chlorinated organic compounds. Alternatives to chlorinating agents would have to be found if those health risks were judged to be unacceptable. (v) Dr. B. A. Bolto (Australia)
Dr. Bolto stated that there was a need for new water and wastewater treatment processes. In developed countries, lower capital costs would characterize these new processes whereas in developing countries the emphasis would be on appropriate technology. Greater attention should be given to the recycling of products from wastewaters and to the removal of heavy metals from wastewater sludges. The significance of water supply for agriculture in Australia meant that methods of removal of salts and turbidity should be explored. (vi) Dr. A. Hamza (Egypt)
Dr. Hamza stated that the monitoring of wastes was a major concern worldwide and that in the future, there should be more attention paid to the monitoring of industrial and domestic wastewater treatment processes. Industry from developed countries was welcome in Egypt, but overseas aid, employment and commercial growth should not obscure responsibility over the impact of hazardous wastes on the environment. (vii) Dr. R. Ben Aim (France)
Dr. Ben Aim stated that wastewater treatment commonly involved the treatment of dilute aqueous systems. Research should consider the behaviour of micropollutants in dilute systems. Increasing use of physicochemical processes in wastewater treatment and increasing use of biological processes in water treatment has resulted in increasing similarity in water and wastewater treatment. Greater emphasis on the optimization of treatment plant operation should be of priority. (viii) Dr. L. Pawlowski (Poland)
Dr. Pawlowslu stated that treatment processes should become cheaper and more efficient. In order that these objectives could be met, a greater understating of the mechanisms by which these treatment processes removed particular pollutants was necessary. This understating could only result from greather chemical knowledge of the processes, the pollutants and their inter-relationships. (ix) Dr. G . N. Pandey (India)
Dr. Pandey stated that numerous research objectives were necessary in Iqdia. The significance of agriculture was stressed in that research should investigate the environmental impact of pesticides and fertilizers; a balance between energy use and environmental degradation should be sought in the production of food. Industrial waste treatment, corrosion research and the development of low energy technology were all of importance, as was the need to improve greater communication between environmental scientists and the medical profession so that the effects of organic pollutants on human system could be understood.
619 (x) Dr. L. H. Wang (Taiwan)
Dr. Wang highlighted areas of concern in Taiwan. The extremely high population density means that waste disposal is of major importance; disposal of solid wastes is hindered by shortage of land. Air pollution problems have been encountered; the presence of the highly toxic dioxin has been observed. The presence of nuclear energy plants has resulted in the discharge of nuclear wastes into seawater; research should consider the polluting effects of such wastes on seawater and its ecology. (xi) Dr. L. Liberti (Italy)
Dr. Liberti reported on two on-going research projects in Italy. One project is studying the interception of wastes from towns on the Adriatic coast; ammoniacal nitrogen and phosphates present in effluents are being converted to ammonium phosphate fertilizers. The benefits are two-fold: fertilizer production and clean-up of the Adriatic Sea. The second project is studying the re-use of wastewater for agriculture; large maturation ponds are used to collect and store effluents. Sunlight has been observed to inactivate viruses. (xii) Dr. U. Zoller (Israel)
Dr. Zoller felt that the essential issue was not what can be done in future years; it is what should be done. Decisions on what should be done depend on economy and various social constraints. The future should see greater emphasis on environmental education and ultimate disposal of pollutants; inadequate information is at present available on the final effects of pollutants on the world ecosystem. (xiii) Dr. V. Soldatov (USSR)
Dr. Soldatov welcomed the conference and the fact that it had become a tradition for environmental scientists throughout the world since its conception in the mid-1970’s. However, the broadness of the conference was questioned; a more specific theme for each biennal conference was opined to be desirable. (xiv) Dr. H. Zimny (Poland)
Dr. Zimny stated that in the last thirty years, the emission of oxides of nitrogen and sulphur had significantly increased. Research was necessary to investigate the effects of such air pollution on soil and the plants and animals living in and on thnt soil. ( x v ) M r . L. Roland ( U K )
Mr. Roland reminded the assembled delegates that he, as a representative of industry, was in a minority surrounded by academic researchers. The economicl facts of life in industry meant that future research and development should be conducted with economic realism and without courting hysteria from pressure groups and the media. The Chairman then invited comments from other delegates present for the discussion session. Dr. A. L. Kowal (Poland) wanted to see more research on the utilization of wastewater carried out; re-use of water and recovery of products would be an investment for the future. Dr. A. Trier (Chde) pointed out the need for air pollution standards in de-
620
veloping countries. Various unidentified speakers stressed the need for the use of nontoxic products in agricultural applications, the significance of acid precipitation arising from air pollution and the importance of international co-operation in the fight against environmental pollution. In his summing up, the Chairman concluded that the session had been of immense value; environmental problems likely to occur within the next five years had been identified by the internationally recognized experts assembled. The solution of these problems would be aided by communication and informed collaboration; the biennial conference would continue as a valuable forum for such communication involving the sharing of problems and courses of remedial action. The value of a conference of this sort is to present ideas and findings so as to avoid duplication of effort, add to the general knowledge while helping the other fellow solve his problem. This meeting had two purposes: 1. Formal presentations, and much more valuable 2. ”eyeball to eyeball” contact between individuals. There is no way to establish a dollar value for an idea and if we all left the conference with one more idea than we had the conference was a success.