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Compliant and Sustainable Energy: From Oil Disposal to Renewables

Written by Ximena Murua
on March 29, 2023

Learn how to navigate the complexities of oil waste disposal while embracing the advantages of renewable energy with this comprehensive guide for businesses in the age of sustainability.

Managing Oil Disposal and Compliance

There are a number of laws and regulations governing the disposal, storage, transportation, and recycling of oil, and it can be challenging for companies to stay on top of their compliance obligations. Currently it's not just a matter of ethics and responsibility, but also a legal requirement that carries significant financial consequences.

In the US, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulates the storage, transportation, and disposal of hazardous waste, including used oil. In the EU, the Waste Framework Directive and the REACH Regulation govern the management and disposal of waste oils. Similarly, in South Africa, the National Environmental Management: Waste Act (NEMWA) regulates the management and disposal of waste, including waste oil. 

Meeting these regulations can be challenging for companies, especially those with multiple facilities or operations in different countries. Keeping track of changing regulations, training employees on proper handling procedures, and ensuring that equipment and facilities meet regulatory standards can be time-consuming and costly. In addition, companies must be prepared to respond to emergencies such as spills or accidents.

Switching to Renewable Energy for Sustainability

Switching to renewable energy sources can have significant benefits for companies in terms of EHS and Sustainability. Renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power are generally considered to be cleaner and less environmentally damaging than fossil fuels. By using renewable energy sources, companies can reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and minimize their impact on the environment. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), renewable energy sources like wind and solar can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% compared to fossil fuels.

Investing in renewable energy sources can help to improve companies' reputation and attract environmentally conscious customers and also provide financial benefits for them. Governments around the world offer various incentives for companies to invest in renewable energy, such as tax credits, rebates, and other financial incentives. By investing in renewable energy, companies can not only improve their EHS and sustainability performance, but also save money and increase their competitiveness in the market.

Here are some statistics to support the benefits of switching to renewable energy sources:

  • According to the International Energy Agency, renewable power capacity is set to expand by 50% between 2019 and 2024, led by solar PV. 
  • An NREL study found that a 35% penetration of solar and wind power would reduce fuel costs by 40% and carbon emissions by 25%–45% — the rough equivalent of taking 22–36 million cars off the road.
  • The International Finance Corporation estimates that Africa has the potential to generate more than 10 terawatts of renewable energy, which is more than the continent's current energy demand.

solarpanel

The major part of South Africa's renewable energy capacity is due to solar and wind panels, which have been growing steadily in recent years.

Leveraging Our EHS Platform for Renewable Energy Integration

Managing oil-related activities and reducing energy emissions are critical components of any effective EHS and sustainability strategy. Companies must navigate a complex web of regulations and compliance requirements, while also seeking ways to minimize their environmental impact. Libryo solution offers a comprehensive solution to these challenges, providing companies with the tools they need to manage their oil-related activities.

Our self-assessment tool is a key component of our platform that can help companies identify areas where they may not be meeting their compliance obligations around energy usage and emissions. This tool enables companies to assess their current energy usage and emissions levels, and identify any areas where they may need to make improvements to meet regulatory requirements. By providing a clear picture of their compliance status, companies can take proactive steps to avoid fines and other penalties, and improve their overall EHS performance.

Learn more about Libryo

The Libryo platform filters and tracks EHS laws specific to your jurisdiction and keeps you updated on any changes. With our self-assessment tool you can identify areas where your company may not be meeting your compliance obligations and take proactive steps to improve your overall EHS performance.

Don't just take our word for it, though. Hear from one of our amazing customers who has experienced the benefits of using Libryo first-hand. Check out this testimonial and see how Libryo can help transform your EHS compliance management today.

Want to find out more about how Libryo can help your business? Book a demo with us to get in touch.

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