Implementation of hybrid pollution control techniques to regulate the metal finishing industries in the Ethekwini Municipality

Abstract

The preparation of the Durban Metro Sewage Disposal Bylaws forced a closer investigation with respect to metals in the different
sewer catchments in the then Durban Metro area. The status in 1999 found few Metal Finishing Industries complying with all
environmental regulations and principles, high heavy metal concentrations in some of the sewage work sludges and illegal
discharges of untreated heavy metal industrial effluents to the receiving environments.
This paper describes the implementation and uses of hybrid pollution control techniques to regulate the metal finishing industries
to reduce their environmental impact. The techniques used are a combination of environmental auditing tools, cleaner production,
formation of and co-operation between industry associations and the local authority, waste minimisation groups, cost based incentives and structured enforcement of the bylaws and agreements. These techniques have been developed and used over the last four years, and have shown success in reducing the environmental impacts and improving relationships between industry and the municipality. This allowed for a better participative approach to
setting new standards to be achieved and a more sustainable environment in which both the metal finishing industries and municipality can operate.

Water SA Vol. 30 (5) 2005: pp.61-65