water reuse & recycling within eu reference documents · water reuse & recycling within eu...
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1
Water reuse & recycling
within EU Reference
Documents
Report by Ana Isabel Fernández Muñoz,
National Expert in Professional Training in DG ENV C1
August 2016
This report contains the results of research by the author and is not to be perceived as the
opinion of the European Commission.
2
Contents
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................. 4
1. Best Available Techniques Reference Documents ......................................................................... 4
1.1. Policy context .............................................................................................................................. 4
1.2. Integration of water reuse and recycling in Best Available Techniques Reference Documents 6
2. Best Environmental Management Practices.................................................................................... 7
2.1. Policy context .............................................................................................................................. 7
2.2. Integration of water reuse and recycling in Best Environmental Management Practices ........... 8
3. Ecolabel......................................................................................................................................... 10
3.1. Policy context ............................................................................................................................ 10
3.2. Integration of water reuse and recycling in Ecolabel ................................................................ 11
4. Green Public Procurement ............................................................................................................ 12
4.1. Policy context ............................................................................................................................ 12
4.2. Integration of water reuse and recycling in Green Public Procurement ................................... 13
5. EU Ecodesign and Energy Labelling ............................................................................................ 15
5.1. Policy context ............................................................................................................................ 15
5.2. Integration of water reuse and recycling in EU Ecodesign and Energy Labelling ................... 16
6. Conclusion .................................................................................................................................... 16
ANNEX I: Analysis of water reuse and recycling in BREFs and Best Available Techniques
Conclusions ........................................................................................................................................... 19
ANNEX II: Analysis of water reuse and recycling in Best Environmental Management Practices. .... 41
ANNEX III: Analysis of water reuse and recycling in Ecolabel. ......................................................... 49
ANNEX IV: Analysis of water reuse and recycling in Green Public Procurement. ............................. 57
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Acronyms
BAT Best Available Techniques
BEMPs Best Environmental Management Practices
BREFs Best Available Techniques Reference Documents
EMAS Eco-Management and Audit Scheme
ERPs Energy Related Products
EU European Union
FD Final Draft
FDM Food, drink and milk industries
GPP Green Public Procurement
IED Industrial Emissions Directive
JRC Joint Research Center
MR Meeting Report
SRDs Sectoral Reference Documents
TWG Technical Working Group
WWTP Waste water treatment plant
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Introduction
Several actions are being carried out to promote safe and cost-effective water reuse in 2016-
2017 under the European Commission's Communication "Closing the loop – An EU action
plan for the Circular Economy"1. They include the publication of guidance for the integration
of water reuse in water planning and management, increasing the visibility of support for
research and innovation, and encouraging Member States to make use of EU funds for
investment in water reuse.
Water reuse and recycling are already common practice in many sectors. In this regard, the
Commission aims to look into further integration of water reuse in water management, e.g.
through the development and review of reference documents for the industrial sector. To this
end, it is important to evaluate the state of art of water reuse and recycling.
The purpose of this document is to examine how water reuse and recycling are considered
within EU reference documents. The document scope includes the reuse, recycling or use of
treated waste water, greywater or process water as well as the collection and use of rainwater.
Moreover, it provides an analysis of water reuse and recycling in the following EU reference
documents:
The Best Available Techniques Reference documents (BREFs) and Best Available
Techniques (BATs) of the installations covered by the Industrial Emissions Directive.
The Best Environmental Management Practices (BEMPs) within EU Eco-
Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS).
The Commission Decisions of the products groups covers by EU Ecolabel.
The technical background reports and EU criteria of the product and service groups
covered by Green Public Procurement (GPP).
The Commission Regulation of the priority products of EU Ecodesign and Energy
Labelling.
For each issue, a short description is included in the policy context section followed by an
overview of the role of water reuse and recycling. Each annex contains detailed information
on the analyses carried out.
1. Best Available Techniques Reference Documents
1.1. Policy context
To date, 31 reference documents2 have been created under the EU's legislation on industrial
emissions. The Best Available Techniques (BAT) reference documents, the so-called BREFs,
were adopted under the Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) Directive3.
1 Communication (COM (2015) 614 final): "Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament,
the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions". 2 http://eippcb.jrc.ec.europa.eu/reference/
3 http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2008:024:0008:0029:en:PDF
5
However, once the Industrial Emissions Directive (IED)4 repealed the IPPC Directive, the
BREFs were adopted under the IED and no longer under the IPPCD.
The BAT conclusions is a document containing the parts of a BREF reference document with
conclusions on best available techniques and their associated environmental performance
levels (BAT-AEPLs), including the associated emission levels (BAT-AELs). According to
Article 14(3) of the IED, BAT conclusions shall be the reference for setting the permit
conditions to installations covered by the Directive.
The categories of activities covered by IED can be consulted in Annex 1 of this Directive., it
A list of BREFs is given below:
Ceramic Manufacturing Industry CER Production of Cement, Lime and
Magnesium Oxide CLM
Common Waste Water and Waste
Gas Treatment/ Management
Systems in the Chemical Sector
CWW Production of Chlor-alkali CAK
Emissions from Storage EFS Production of Polymers POL
Energy Efficiency ENE Production of Pulp, Paper and Board PP
Ferrous Metals Processing Industry FMP Production of Speciality Inorganic
Chemicals SIC
Food, Drink and Milk Industries FDM Refining of Mineral Oil and Gas REF
Industrial Cooling Systems ICS Slaughterhouses and Animals By-
products Industries SA
Intensive Rearing of Poultry and
Pigs IRPP Smitheries and Foundries Industry SF
Iron and Steel Production IS Surface Treatment Of Metals and
Plastics STM
Large Combustion Plants LCP Surface Treatment Using Organic
Solvents (including Wood and Wood
Products Preservation with Chemicals)
STS
Large Volume Inorganic Chemicals
– Ammonia, Acids and Fertilisers
LVIC-
AAF Tanning of Hides and Skins TAN
Large Volume Inorganic Chemicals
– Solids and Others Industry LVIC-S Textiles Industry TXT
Large Volume Organic Chemical
Industry LVOC Waste Incineration WI
Manufacture of Glass GLS Waste Treatment WT
Manufacture of Organic Fine
Chemicals OFC Wood-based Panels Production WBP
Non-ferrous Metals Industries NFM
4 http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2010:334:0017:0119:en:PDF
6
1.2. Integration of water reuse and recycling in Best Available Techniques Reference
Documents
This report is intended to focus on the role of water reuse in the BREFs and BAT
conclusions, developed for the installations covered by the IED Directive.
The table in Annex I provides detailed analysis of the consideration of water reuse and
recycling done for each BREF. All BREFs can be consulted via the website5.
Water reuse and recycling are considered in depth in these documents. This may be due to the
greater water reuse and recycling potential in the manufacturing process.
Water reuse is identified in almost all of the documents (29 out of 31) and is particularly
prominent in those related to the Food, drink and milk industries, and the Electrolytic and
chemical treatment of metal surface or Textile industries. However, it is not identified in
Energy efficiency and Production of speciality inorganic chemicals. This is most likely
because water is not considered a key environmental factor in these documents.
On the whole, water reuse and recycling of rinse water and cooling systems is identified in
most of the documents (for among other things: Surface treatment of metals and plastics,
Slaughterhouses and animals by-products industries or Production of pulp, paper and board).
In a few cases, water reuse is proposed for rainwater (Common waste water and gas
treatment/management systems in the chemical sector, Intensive rearing of poultry and pigs,
Non-ferrous metals industries, Tanning of hides and skins and Waste treatment). The
documents propose to separate the polluted rainwater in different streams, but they do not
mention the possibility of reusing that water.
In Ceramic manufacturing industries, for instance, different percentages of processed waste
water recycling ratios are considered a BAT. Enhancing the reuse of waste water within the
production process is also considered a BAT in recent Common waste water and waste gas
treatment/management systems in the chemical sector. In some industries such as the Food,
drink and milk industries, the reuse of water is questioned and confronted with food
quality/safety standards.
Water Reuse is seen to have been addressed quite broadly in recently revised BREFs or BAT
conclusions. Several BREFs such as: energy efficiency or production of speciality inorganic
chemicals, do not mention either water reuse or recycling and are only concerned with
treatment to be conducted before the water used in industrial processes can be discharged
(e.g. cement and lime, waste treatment).
5 http://eippcb.jrc.ec.europa.eu/reference/
7
2. Best Environmental Management Practices
2.1. Policy context
The EU Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) is a voluntary
tool available for any kind of organisation aiming to improve its
environmental and financial performance and communicate its
environmental achievements to stakeholders and society in general.
In accordance with Article 46 of the EMAS Regulation6, the European
Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC), in consultation with EU
Member States and other stakeholders, is currently developing Sectoral
Reference Documents (SRDs) whose objective is to provide guidance
to organisations and to facilitate the practical implementation of the requirements of EMAS.
These documents provide information on best environmental management practice, use of
environmental performance or core indicators for specific sectors, benchmarks of excellence
and ratings systems identifying environmental performance levels.
In December 2011, the Commission established the working plan setting out an indicative list
of sectors for the adoption of sectoral and cross-sectoral reference documents. The main
criteria taken into account in establishing the list were: the environmental impact of the sector
within the EU; the level of EMAS uptake in the sector; and the potential for environmental
improvements in the 'value chain' of the sector.
The Sectoral Reference Documents are to be elaborated for the following sectors, which have
been identified as priority sectors:
Retail trade Car manufacturing
Tourism Manufacture of electronic and electric
equipment
Construction Manufacture of fabricated metal products,
except machinery and equipment
Public Administration Waste management
Agriculture — Crop production
and Animal production Telecommunications
Food and beverage manufacturing Car manufacturing
The JRC has produced two documents describing the Best Environmental Management
Practices (BEMPs) for each sector: a detailed technical report (or best practice report) and a
concise document i.e. the EMAS Sectoral Reference Document (SRD). More information can
be found on the EMAS and JRC websites7.
6 Regulation ((EC) 1221/2009) "On the voluntary participation by organisations in a Community eco-
management and audit scheme (EMAS), repealing Regulation (EC) No 761/2001 and Commission Decisions 2001/681/EC and 2006/193/EC". 7 EMAS: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/emas/documents/sectoral_en.html
BEMP: http://susproc.jrc.ec.europa.eu/activities/emas/
8
The detailed technical report is a comprehensive document which is the direct result of all the
research work carried out by the JRC for the sectors identified. This document has been
published by the JRC as a JRC Scientific and Policy Report and provides a detailed
description of the different BEMPs.
For each of the 11 priority sectors identified, the concise SRD is based on the detailed
technical report produced by the JRC. The SRD must be approved by representatives of EU
Member States at the EMAS Committee before it is officially adopted by the European
Commission. Each SRD describes briefly all the BEMPs identified for a certain sector and
what are the conditions under which they can be applied. For each BEMP, the SRD also lists
what environmental indicators can be used to monitor its implementation and what are the
benchmarks of excellence. Adopted SRDs are published by the European Commission.
The following table gives the current situation of the priority sector documents:
Priority sectors Best practice
report
EMAS SRD
Retail trade Published Adopted
Tourism Published Adopted
Construction Published Ongoing
Public Administration Published In preparation
Agriculture — Crop production and
Animal production Published In preparation
Food and beverage manufacturing Published In preparation
Car manufacturing Ongoing -
Manufacture of electronical and electric
equipment Ongoing -
Manufacture of fabricated metal products,
except machinery and equipment Initiated -
Waste management Initiated -
2.2. Integration of water reuse and recycling in Best Environmental Management
Practices
This report is intended to focus on analysing the role of water reuse in the concise Sectoral
Reference Documents and the detailed technical reports of all the priority sectors listed
above.
The table in Annex II indicates how water reuse has been considered for each priority sector
and includes information on the process (publication of reports, next steps…). It also
indicates when the documents were published and future action. The work programme can be
consulted on the JRC website8 for each priority sector.
8 http://susproc.jrc.ec.europa.eu/activities/emas/
9
On the whole, considerations on the issue of water reuse mainly concern the harvesting of
rainwater or grey water for applications such as toilet flushers, washing machines, irrigation,
cooling towers or for general cleaning purposes. The collection systems for rainwater or grey
water can considerably reduce demand for potable water from the mains supply.
In some cases, other kinds of reuse are considered. For instance, in the tourism sector,
laundry water recycling systems for washing and rinsing.. This point is quite developed in the
document.
As regards food and beverage manufacturing, water reuse is considered in different types of
industries. The following table gives some examples:
Olive Oil industry Reused water can be used for washing the olives.
All food and beverage
manufacturers
An effective way of reducing water consumption is to
recycle the final rinse water in the cleaning in place (CIP)
system.
Cheesemaking operations Waste water recovered from the whey can be reused by
large frontrunner cheese manufacturers.
Manufacture of wine More water-efficient equipment (using reused and recycled
water) can be installed.
In some cases, EMAS SRDs and BREFs partially cover the same sector (e.g. BREF for the
food, drink and milk industries and EMAS SRD for the food and beverage manufacturing
sector). However they have substantial differences (e.g. scope of the activities covered,
character, size of the installations, approach adopted for their development).
In order to, on the one hand, improve clarity among stakeholders regarding the objectives of
the documents and avoid duplication of efforts and to, on the other hand, maximise the added
value of developing an EMAS SRD for a sector already covered by a BREF: the EMAS SRD
can refer to the BREF for areas covered in the BREF or can focus on the non-BREF areas.
For instance, the EMAS SRD for the food and beverage manufacturing sector notes: It is
BEMP for all food and beverage manufacturers to implement the relevant best available
techniques (BAT) or other techniques that can achieve equivalent or higher level of
environmental performance and consider the relevant emerging techniques presented in the
"Reference Document on Best Available Techniques in the Food, Drink and Milk Industries
(FDM BREF)".
In those cases, where the EMAS SRD refers to the BREF, it is important to take into account
the content of the BREFs given that they can mention water reuse. The table below shows
the BREFs referred to in the documents:
Priority sectors BREF
Food and Beverage manufacturing
sectors
Food, drink and milk industries BREF
Public Administration Waste incineration BREF
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Priority sectors BREF
Waste treatments BREF
Agriculture Intensive rearing of poultry and pigs BREF
Electrical and Electronic
Equipment Manufacturing sector
Surface treatment using organic solvents BREF
Surface treatment of metals and plastics BREF
Car Manufacturing sector
Surface treatment using organic solvents BREF
Ferrous metals processing industry BREF
Iron and steel production BREF
Smitheries and Foundries Industry BREF
Waste management Sector
Waste treatment BREF
Waste incineration BREF
3. Ecolabel
3.1. Policy context
The EU Ecolabel is a voluntary scheme, which means that producers,
importers and retailers can choose to apply for the label for their
products. Its functioning is set through the Regulation on EU
Ecolabel9.
In this case, industries may voluntarily choose to apply for the EU
Ecolabel because it can be a market advantage to have the EU Ecolabel
as evidence that a third-party has validated that the product lives up to strict environmental
requirements.
The EU Ecolabel covers a wide range of product groups:
Rinse-off Cosmetic Products Hard coverings
Absorbent Hygiene Products Wooden Furniture
All-purpose cleaners and sanitary
cleaners
Growing Media, Soil Improvers
and mulch
Detergents for dishwashers Heat pumps
Industrial and Institutional automatic
dishwasher detergents Water-based Heaters
Hand dishwashing detergents Lubricants
Laundry detergents Bed mattresses
Industrial and institutional laundry
detergents Sanitary tapware
Textiles Flushing toilets and urinals
Footwear Converted paper
Paints and Varnishes Newsprint paper
Imaging equipment Printed paper
Personal computers Copying and graphic paper
Notebook computers Tissue paper
Televisions Campsite services
Wooden Floor coverings Tourist Accommodation services
9 Regulation (66/2010, 25/11/2009) "On the EU Ecolabel".
11
JRC analyses product groups from the environmental, technological and economic point of
view and develops a product proposal specification achievable by the 10-20% best
performing products on the market. This proposal is further developed in discussions with
stakeholders in a consensus-based approach in order to arrive at a legal proposal that meets
both the needs of consumers and industry.
The criteria for each product group are developed in order to decrease the main
environmental impacts over the entire life cycle of the product. Because the life cycle of
every product and service is different, the criteria are tailored to address the unique
characteristics of each product type. In this process, the focus is on the stages where the
product has the highest environmental impact in the life cycle of the product.
The criteria are published through Commission Decisions. All the Commission Decisions can
be consulted on the Ecolabel website10
.
3.2. Integration of water reuse and recycling in Ecolabel
As regards the consideration of water reuse and recycling in the Commission Decision where
the ecological criteria are established for product groups, the table in Annex III provides an
analysis of what has been done for each product group. The table also indicates when the
documents were published and the validity date.
Currently, only 4 out of 34 EU Ecolabel criteria mention the reuse or recycling of water.
They are: textiles, hard coverings, campsites services and tourist accommodation services.
This is most likely due to the fact that the greatest environmental impacts in the life cycle of
most of the products are unrelated to water.
In the case of the textile industry, water reuse is considered within criteria 15. Washing,
drying and curing energy efficiency. Among other things, the applicant shall demonstrate that
production sites have implemented a minimum number of Best Available Techniques (BAT).
Among these BAT techniques appear water reuse measures such us: use of cooling water as
process water or re-using/recycling water and liquor in batch processes. In this case, the
compliance of a minimum number of BATs is addressed to industries outside of the EU
territory and is, therefore, not covered by the Industrial Emissions Directive. This request is
used given that the majority of the textiles sold in the EU are made in countries outside the
EU such as India, Bangladesh or Turkey.
For the hard-surface floor-covering industry, the document mentions a waste water recovery
closed system. After clearing, water shall be recycled. In addition, recycling of water is taken
into account through the water recycling ratio proposed. The objective is to reach a water
recycling ratio of at least 90% of the waste water produced.
Finally, for campsites and tourist accommodation services, only the use of rainwater and
recycled water is included in the text. Rainwater and recycled water shall be collected and
used for non-sanitary and non-drinking purposes.
10
http://ec.europa.eu/environment/ecolabel/products-groups-and-criteria.html
12
As regards Copying and Graphic Paper, Newsprint Paper and Tissue Paper, a draft of the
revision of the European Ecolabel criteria has been elaborated in May 2016. Unlike the
Commission Decisions of these product groups, water reuse is considered among the
measures to achieve closed water circuits in line with BREF recommendations.
It is noted that EU Ecolabel documents make very little mention of the BREFs. The table
below indicates the BREFs mentioned:
Products and services groups BREF
Textiles Textiles industry BREF
Paints and Varnishes Manufacture of Large volume inorganic chemical
BREF
4. Green Public Procurement
4.1. Policy context
Europe's public authorities can make an important contribution towards local, regional,
national and international sustainability goals by using their purchasing power to choose
goods, services and works with a reduced environmental impact.
According to the European Commission's Communication: Public procurement for a better
environment11
, Green Public Procurement (GPP) or green purchasing, is defined as: a process
whereby public authorities seek to produce goods, services and works with a reduced
environmental impact throughout their life-cycle when compared to goods, services and
works with the same primary function that would otherwise be procured.
On this latter issue, the Communication recommended the creation of a process for setting
common GPP criteria given that the criteria used by Member States should be similar to
avoid a distortion of the single market and a reduction of EU-wide competition. In this
respect, the EU has developed GPP criteria for a number of product and service groups,
which are regularly reviewed and updated. The term "GPP criteria" includes not only
selection and award criteria, but also technical specifications and contract performance
clauses, which can help to green contracts.
The product and service groups covered are:
Cleaning products and services* Office IT equipment*
Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Road Design, Construction and
Maintenance
Office Buildings Design,
Construction and Management Sanitary Tapware
Copying and graphic paper* Street lighting and traffic signals*
Electrical and Electronic Equipment
used in the Health Care Sector Textiles*
11
Communication (COM (2008) 400) "Public procurement for a better environment".
13
Electricity* Toilets and Urinals
Food and Catering services* Transport*
Furniture* Wall Panels
Gardening products and services Waste Water Infrastructure
Imaging Equipment Water-based Heaters
Indoor lighting
Criteria marked with an asterisk (*) are currently under revision.
The GPP criteria are based on data from a variety of sources and a technical background
report is prepared for each product group to identify the considerations taken into account.
All of the EU GPP criteria, together with the technical background reports setting out the
main considerations for the choice of the criteria, can be downloaded from the GPP website12
.
4.2. Integration of water reuse and recycling in Green Public Procurement
This report is intended to focus on the role of water reuse in the technical background reports
and the EU GPP criteria of all product and service groups.
The table in Annex IV provides an analysis of the consideration of water reuse and recycling
done for each product and service group. The table also indicates when the documents were
published and when they will be revised. On this latter aspect, it is also noted who is in
charge of the revisions and the target completion date. The work programme can be consulted
on the GPP website.
As previously mentioned, GPP focuses on goods, services and works with a reduced
environmental impact throughout their life-cycle. In most cases, water is a feedstock in the
manufacturing process of the products; however, on the whole, measures to reduce it in this
phase are not developed. For instance, in the technical background concerning Transport,
under 4.2. Production of vehicles, it is indicated that: Water will also be needed, and large
factors will require a significant supply. However, measures are not proposed to reduce water
consumption.
Furthermore, despite the fact that some of the groups identify water consumption as a key
environmental impact, only 3 out of 21 (Copying and graphic paper, Gardening products and
services and Waste water infrastructure) consider, where possible, water reuse among the
criteria for achieving a reduction in water consumption. One example can be found, but
without reference to water reuse, in the documents related to Furniture in which one of the
key environmental impacts is: High water and energy consumption in the production of
several materials.
It is important to highlight that not all the documents tackle the key environmental impact of
the manufacturing phase. On this latter issue, it should be clarified that despite the fact that
GPP aims to tackle the environmental impacts through the whole life cycle, it is complex to
12
http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/eu_gpp_criteria_en.htm
14
tackle environmental impacts that happen in the production phase. Public authorities must
design their tenders in a way which guarantees equal treatment of tenderers. So for any
requirement, it must be ensured that tenderers can provide comparable and correct
information which can be verified by a public authority without disproportionate efforts.
Therefore, it is necessary to have a very solid verification system in place to be able to tackle
environmental impacts that happen in the production phase.
As regards the criteria for Copying and Graphic Paper, in the version of May 2016, in
contrast to the technical background report and the EU GPP criteria of 2008, water reuse is
mentioned among the techniques to achieve water system closure as suggested by the BAT.
Within the criteria for Gardening products and services, there are several references to water
reuse. In these documents (technical background report and EU GPP criteria), watering and
irrigation are identified as key environmental impacts. In the EU GPP criteria, the criteria for
irrigation and gardening recognise the use of other sources: EU GPP criteria 3.3. concerning
irrigation notes that: additional points will be awarded if the irrigation system can collect and
use water from locally recycled sources, such as rain water, groundwater and filtered grey
water. In the case of EU GPP criteria 3.6. concerning gardening, it is considered to maximise
the use of non-potable water (from rain, phreatic water to reused water).
Finally, the waste water infrastructure documents deal superficially with water reuse in the
operation phase of these facilities. Similarly, the promotion of reused water and the use of
grey/rain water is considered within the GPP approach.
In some cases, the products have a related BREF. In the Textile document, in the section
related to water and energy use, it shows that according to a Danish Environmental Protection
Agency report, there is a large potential in the industry for water savings including the reuse
of waste water, and in spite of the existence of a specific BREF for the textile industry, there
is no mention of water reuse or the BREF.
The table below indicates the documents in which the BREFs are mentioned:
Products and services groups BREF
Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Large Combustion Plants BREF
Waste incineration BREF
Energy Efficiency BREF
Copying and graphic paper Production of pulp, paper and board BREF
Food and Catering services Food, drink and milk industries BREF
Textiles Textiles industry BREF
Toilets and Urinals Ceramic manufacturing industry BREF
Waste Water Infrastructure Waste incineration BREF
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5. EU Ecodesign and Energy Labelling
5.1. Policy context
The EU legislation on Ecodesign and Energy Labelling is an effective tool
for improving the energy efficiency of products.
Ecodesign13
regulation set out mandatory requirements for particular
energy-related products to ensure a minimum level of energy efficiency for
products that are sold on the European market.
Ecodesign requirements are developed through a life-cycle approach taking
into account the environmental impacts of a product including design and
end of line. In practice, Ecodesign has been effective mainly when effects
can be measured and verified on the product (such as for energy
consumption and water consumption in the use-phase).
Energy labels are used to differentiate products on the market based on their energy
performance. The energy label covers energy-related products as well, but only looks at the
use phase. The labelling requirements for individual products groups are created under the
EU Energy Labelling Directive14
.
This tool has been included in this report, given that, besides the energy label scale (A+++ to
G), other information like the average water consumption and noise levels can be provided on
the label when considered relevant. In this way consumers have the opportunity to choose a
product with low water consumption.
As for Ecodesign, when requirements are in place, these are mandatory.
The Ecodesign and Energy Labelling Directives are implemented through product-specific
Regulations for a list of priority products, directly applicable in all EU countries:
Ecodesign Energy
Label Ecodesign
Energy
Label
Air conditioners x x Power supplies x -
Boilers x - Refrigerating appliances x x
Circulators x - Set-top boxes x -
Dishwashers x x Standby/off mode x -
Domestic ovens, hobs and
range hoods x x Television x x
Electric motors x - Transformers x -
Fans x - Tumble driers x x
Lamps (directional and
LED) x x Vacuum Cleaners x x
13
Directive (2009/125/EC, 21/10/2009) "Establishing a framework for the setting of ecodesign requirements for energy-related products". 14
Directive (2010/30/EU, 18/06/2010) "On the indication by labelling and standard product information of the consumption of energy and other resources by energy-related products".
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Lamps (household) x x Washing machines x x
Lamps (fluorescent) x x Water pumps x -
5.2. Integration of water reuse and recycling in EU Ecodesign and Energy Labelling
This report is intended to focus on the consideration of water reuse in the Commission
Regulations developed for priority products covered by EU Ecodesign and Energy Labelling.
The Commission Regulations for priority products that have been adopted and further
information used for this analysis can be consulted on the website15
.
None of the documents make reference to water reuse or recycling. This may be due to the
fact that the product itself is referred to and it is not included in the manufacturing process.
The major potential of water reuse or recycling is located in the manufacturing process so,
unless in the use phase of these energy-related products they can reuse or recycle water, it
will be more difficult to find references to this issue.
As regards the inclusion of water reuse in future reviews of these documents, despite the fact
that a reduction of water consumption during the use phase can be achieved by reusing water,
the requirements of Ecodesign and Energy Labelling cannot impose on industries the means
to acquire that reduction, since that is a decision that should be made by the industries.
6. Conclusion
Regarding BREFs and BATs Conclusions, in the majority of documents (29 out of 31),
water reuse is identified, mainly in relation to: food, drink and milk industries, electrolytic
and chemical treatment of metal surface or textile industries.
The measures related to water reuse are focused primarily on rinse water and cooling systems
and only in very few cases, rainwater.
The terminology "water reuse" seems to be identified mostly in recently revised BREFs or
BAT conclusions. Maybe it would be possible for more water reuse related measures to be
added.
With regard to Best Environmental Management Practices (BEMPs), on the whole, most of
the documents (6 out of 7) deal mainly with water reuse related to the harvesting of rainwater
or grey water. In other cases, water reuse is implied, but not actually mentioned. In the
tourism sector, for instance, water can be reused by means of laundry water recycling systems
for washing and rinsing. For food and beverage manufacturing, several water reuse
alternatives are proposed in different industries, such as: olive oil, cheese or wine.
15
http://ec.europa.eu/growth/single-market/european-standards/harmonised-standards/ecodesign/index_en.htm
17
For areas covered by the Best Available Technique Reference Document (BREF), the
Sectoral Reference Documents (SRD) do not describe best environmental management
practices, but refer to the relevant guidance in terms of best available techniques in the
BREF. Nevertheless, BEMP can be developed for non-BREF areas.
To conclude with regard to BEMPs, it may well be possible to expand the options to include
further water reuse and recycling possibilities, especially in sectors not covered by BREFs.
This could be considered in priority sectors, such as: car manufacturing, waste management,
manufacturing of fabricated metal products… for which BEMPs are currently being
developed.
Very little mention is made of the reusing or recycling of water by EU Ecolabel, only 4 out
of the 34 EU Ecolabel criteria (textiles, hard coverings, campsite services and tourist
accommodation services). This may be due to the fact that the highest environmental impact
in the life cycle of most of the products is not related to water.
In the case of the textile industry, water reuse is considered among the minimum number of
BATs that production sites have implemented.
For the hard covering industry, recycling of water is taken into account through the water
recycling ratio proposed.
Finally, for the campsite and tourist accommodation services, only the use of rainwater and
recycled water is included in the text.
As regards Copying and Graphic Paper, Newsprint Paper and Tissue Paper, a draft of the
revision of the European Ecolabel criteria has been elaborated in May 2016. Water reuse is
considered among the measures to achieve water circuit closure in line with the BREF
recommendations.
Similarly, it can be seen that EU Ecolabel documents make very little mention of BREFs.
To conclude with regard to Ecolabel, given that this tool has a life-cycle approach and water
intervenes in the manufacturing process of most of the products, it may well be possible to
consider water reuse and recycling in many of them.
As regards the Green Public Procurement (GPP), it is noted that despite the fact that the
majority of products use water in their manufacturing process, most of them do not develop
this aspect and, therefore, they do not take into account water reuse in this phase. This is a
controversial point if we bear in mind that the challenge of the GPP is seek to produce goods,
services and works with a reduced environmental impact throughout their life-cycle.
Water reuse is only dealt with in Copying and Graphic Paper, Gardening Products and
Services and Waste Water Infrastructures. In these documents, water reuse has hardly been
mentioned. In the case of Copying and Graphic Paper, unlike in the last version, water reuse
is considered in the latest draft of the revision.
18
In keeping with the previous comments for Ecolabel, consideration of water reuse and
recycling in these documents could be broadened. However, it should be clarified that despite
the fact that GPP and Ecolabel aim to tackle the environmental impacts through the whole
life cycle, it is complex to tackle environmental impacts that happen in the production phase
given that it is necessary that a very solid verification system is in place in order to ensure
that tenderers can provide comparable and correct information which can be verified.
As for Ecodesign and Energy Labelling, none of the documents make reference to water
reuse or recycling. Requirements under Ecodesign and the Energy Label should be
measurable and verifiable by national verification authorities to avoid circumvention. For this
reason, the directives have been most effective in requiring the energy and water
consumption of products in the use phase.
Reuse of water is one way of minimising water consumption and complying with Ecodesign
requirements or achieving a better average water consumption to be displayed on the Energy
label, but other measures can also be taken (e.g. by boosting the mechanical system or the
temperature). Requirements are set based on an analysis of the technologies that are available
on the market.
To sum up, little mention is made of water reuse or recycling in Ecolabel and GPP documents
and further analysis is required to identify more possibilities on this issue.
Regarding BEMPs, further consideration needs to be given to water reuse and recycling,
especially in sectors not covered by BREFs.
Finally, after an analysis of all these EU reference documents, it can be concluded that the
BREFs and BATs are the documents in which water reuse or recycling measures are the most
developed and where further efforts should be made to enhance these measures, particularly
in those documents currently under revision.
19
ANNEX I: Analysis of water reuse and recycling in BREFs and Best Available Techniques Conclusions
The column "Adopted/Published documents" makes reference to the document in force. In case a revision is ongoing, the column "Meeting
report" gives the key points to take into account for the revision. Finally, if there is a draft of the revision, it appears in the column "Formal
draft".
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
Ceramic Manufacturing Industry
BREF (08.2007)
- - Yes
In section 4.4. Process waste water, in Process optimisation: "Re-use of process waste water in the same process step, in particular repeated re-use of the cleaning water after suitable treatment. […] To determine the maximum amount of re-usable process waste water, a water balance can be drawn up. […] Achievable process waste water recycling ratios in different sectors of the ceramic industry are offered". As a General BAT: In section 5.1.5. Process waste water (emissions and consumption): "a) BAT is to reduce water consumption by applying process optimisation measures". By sectors, specific BAT are: For Wall and floor tiles (5.2.5.4): "BAT is to re-use process waste water in the manufacturing process with process waste water recycling ratio of 50-100% […] by applying a combination of process optimisation measures and process waste water treatment system". For table- and ornamental ware (household ceramics) (5.2.6.3.): "BAT is to re-use process waste water in the manufacturing process with process waste water recycling ratios of 30-50% by applying a combination of process optimisation measures and process waste water treatment systems".
(Re) activation of the TWG: 2017. Submission of Final Draft BREF to the IED Article 13 forum for its opinion: 2020.
20
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
For sanitaryware (5.2.7.3.): "BAT is to re-use process waste water in the manufacturing process with process waste water recycling ratios of 30-50% by applying a combination of process optimisation measures and process waste water treatment systems".
Common Waste Water and Waste Gas Treatment/ Management Systems in the Chemical Sector
BAT (06.2016)
BREF (02.2003)
FD (07.2014)
MR (06.2008)
Yes
BAT: In section 3. Emissions to water, in section 3.1. Water usage and waste water generation: "BAT 7. In order to reduce the usage of water and the generation of waste water, BAT is to reduce the volume and/or pollutant load of waste water streams, to enhance the reuse of waste water within the production process and to recover and reuse raw materials". FD: In section: 4.3.1. Water and usage and waste water generation: "BAT 7. In order to reduce the usage of water and the generation of waste water, BAT is to reduce the volume and/or load of waste water streams, to enhance the reuse of waste water within the production process and/or to recover and reuse raw materials. [This BAT conclusion is based on information given in Section 3.3.1.]". In section 3.3.1., some measures are related to water reuse & recycling: - "Direct waste water recycling, i.e. reuse of slightly contaminated waste water in other processes not influenced by these contaminants, which results in a reduction of fresh water and waste water without changing the contaminant load". - "Pretreatment of waste water and subsequent reuse (in the same or in another process), which results in the reduction of fresh water, waste water and load of contaminants". - "Implementing multiple use and recirculation operations, i.e.
-
21
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
rainwater can be collected and used for scrubber feed". MR: The document doesn’t mention anything related to water reuse or recycling. BREF: In section: 4.3.1. Waste Water Section, BAT is an appropriate combination of: "using process water in a recycle mode whenever feasible for economic and quality reasons, with a maximum number of recycles before discharge". In 4.3.2. Waste Gas Section: - For dust, BAT is an adequate combination of: "using scrubbing water in a recycle mode with a maximum number of recycles when it is feasible and does not lead to abrasion or corrosion in the scrubber vessel". - For combustion Exhaust Gas treatment, BAT for removal of HCl, HF and SO2 is to: "recover them when feasible by using two-stage wet scrubbing, using in the first stage water or acidic solution as scrubber medium in recycle mode to remove HF and HCl, using in the second stage calcium carbonate suspension to remove SO2 as calcium sulphate".
Emissions from Storage
BREF (07.2006)
- - Yes
In the handling of solids, water can be re-used in the cleaning of vehicle tyres process (section 4.4.6.13.).: "A more sophisticated technique is a pool in combination with cleaning of the tyres' running surface with clear water where the dust is removed from the dirty water in a settling tank and the water is re-used as washing water". Likewise, water can be recycled in the cleaning conveyor belts process (4.4.6.10.): "the water from this system is collected in dams where the solids are settled and the water is then recycled".
Modifications not envisaged.
22
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
Energy Efficiency
BREF (02.2009)
- - -
BREF: The document does not mention any BAT related to water reuse or recycling.
-
Ferrous Metals Processing Industry
BREF (12.2001)
- - Yes
BREF: All surface rectification processes: BATis: "Treatment and reuse of water from all surface rectification processes (separation of solids)". Cooling water: BAT is: "Closed loop or reuse of this relatively pure water as make-up water for other applications". Rinsing: BAT is: "Reuse of rinse water to replenish preceding process baths. Minimization of waste water: It is BAT, cascade rinsing systems with internal re-use of overflow (e.g. in pickling baths or scrubbing)".
Review started. (Re)activation of the TWG: 2015
Submission of Final Draft BREF to the
IED Article 13 forum for its
opinion: 2018.
Food, Drink and Milk Industries
BREF (08.2006)
- MR
(10.2014)
Yes
BREF: In section 4.1.6.4. Step 4: Identifying prevention and minimisation options, closed-circuit water recycling or re-use of wash-water, are identified as measures for saving water. For the following products: - Fruits and vegetables: "segregation of water streams to optimise re-use and treatment" (4.1.7.8.); "re-use of vegetable washing waste water after treatment (a case study)" (4.5.7.3.4.); "re-use of water during pea processing after chlorination" (4.5.7.3.5.) and "re-use of water in fruit and vegetable processing" (4.7.3.7.). - Dairy products: "re-use and recycling of water for cleaning in dairies" (4.7.5.16.). - Sugar: "sugar beet water/waste water re-use" (4.7.7.3.). Related to BATs:
Review ongoing. (Re)activation of the TWG: 2014 Submission of Final Draft BREF to the IED Article 13 forum for its opinion: 2017.
23
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
- Additional BAT for the fruit and vegetables sector (5.2.3.): "optimising the re-use of water with or without treatment, depending on the unit operations which require water and the quality of water these require, ensuring that adequate hygiene and food quality standards are maintained". In section 7.4. Information imbalances and gaps: "the recycling and re-use of water were identified as key issues in the FDM sector". MR: In section: 2.3. Water and energy consumption and resource efficiency: "The Technical Working Group will collect data and contextual information for relevant FDM sectors and product ranges using in particular the questionnaire covering: […] the consumption of water, including reuse and recycling techniques for the reduction of fresh water use".
Industrial Cooling Systems
BREF (12.2001)
- - Yes
BREF:16 Techniques (based on water reuse) to be considered within the BAT approach: 1. Reuse of (waste) water for cooling tower make-up: with water from within/outside the plant (plant process effluents/municipal effluents of municipal WWTP). 2. Zero discharge system: staged cooling system used to eliminate any liquid discharge from the cooling tower blow down. 3. Spray ponds: all/part of the cooling water flow is led to a pond through spraying nozzles enhancing the cooling) 4. Cold storage: Underground storage of water to cool it down. 5. Recirculation of cooling water, using an open or closed recirculating wet system.
-
Intensive BREF FD MR Yes FD: (Re) activation of
16
Comments taken from: EU-level instruments on water reuse. Intermediate report. Amec Foster Wheeler, June 2015.
24
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
Rearing of Poultry and Pigs
(07.2003) (08.2015) (06.2009) In section 5.1.4. Efficient use of water: "BAT 5. In order to use water efficiently, BAT is to use a combination of the techniques", among others: "Reuse uncontaminated rainwater as cleaning water". MR: The document does not mention anything related to water reuse or recycling. BREF: The document does not mention any BAT related to water reuse or recycling.
the TWG: 2008. Submission of Final Draft BREF to the IED Article 13 forum for its opinion: 2015. Review has been finalised and the Committee meeting to vote on the BAT conclusions is being prepared.
Iron and Steel Production
BATC (03.2012)
- - Yes
BATC & BREF: Both documents make the same references to water reuse and recycling. In the Water and waste water section: "27. BAT is to minimise water consumption in sinter plants by recycling cooling water as much as possible unless once-through cooling systems are used". "38. BAT for pelletisation plants is to minimise the water consumption and discharge of scrubbing, wet rinsing and cooling water and reuse it as much as possible". "53. BAT is to minimise and reuse quenching water as much as possible". "54. BAT is to avoid the reuse of process water with a significant organic load as quenching water". "66. BAT for water consumption and discharge from blast furnace gas treatment is to minimise and to reuse scrubbing water as much as possible".
-
BREF (2013)
25
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
"81. BAT is to minimise the waste water discharge from continuous casting by using different techniques, among others: the recirculation of cooling water and water from vacuum generation as much as possible". In section 1.1.6. Water and waste water management: "12. BAT for waste water management is to prevent, collect and separate waste water types, maximising internal recycling and using an adequate treatment for each final flow".
Large Combustion Plants
BREF (07.2006)
FD (06.2016)
D1 (06.2013)
MR (10.2011)
Yes
FD: In section 10.1.6. Emissions to water and water consumption: "10. In order to reduce water usage and the volume of contaminated waste water discharged, BAT is to use one or both of the techniques given below: a. Water Recycling: Residual aqueous streams, including run-off water, from the plan are reused for other purposes. The degree of recycling is limited by the quality requirements of the recipient water stream and the water balance of the plant" b. […]". D1: In section 10.1.6. Emissions to water and water consumption: "10. In order to reduce water consumption and the volume of contaminated water discharged into receiving waters, BAT is to use the techniques given below". Among others techniques: - "Maximise internal water recycling". - "Segregate/reuse non-contaminated water streams (e.g. once-through cooling water, rain water)". MR: The document doesn’t mention anything related to water reuse or
(Re) activation of the TWG: 2011. Submission of Final Draft BREF to the IED Article 13 forum for its opinion: 2016. Review ongoing.
26
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
recycling. BREF:17 Techniques (based on water reuse) to be considered within the BAT approach: 1. Wet FGD (Flue-gas desulphurisation): Closed loop (combustion plants: coal-fired, biomass and peat, liquid fuels) 2. Slag flushing and transport: Closed water circuit by filtration or sedimentation (combustion plants: coal-fired, biomass and peat) 3. Washing of boilers, air preheater and precipitator: Neutralisation and closed loop Operation or dry cleaning methods (combustion plants: coal-fired, biomass and peat, liquid fuels, gaseous fuels) 4.Surface run-off Sedimentations or chemical treatment and internal re-use coal-fired, biomass and peat, liquid fuels, gaseous fuels)
Large Volume Inorganic Chemicals – Ammonia, Acids and Fertilisers
BREF (08.2007)
- - Yes
BREF:18 Featured for some compounds: - Recycling of scrubbing and washing liquors; recycling of rinsing and cleaning waters (NPK and CN, urea). - Re-use of treated process water e.g. for cooling (urea).
-
Large Volume Inorganic Chemicals – Solids and Others Industry
BREF (08.2007)
- - Yes
BREF:19 Featured for some compounds: - Some water streams can be re-used as process water for quenching the reactors gas/carbon black quenching (carbon black). - Closed loop water systems when scrubbers are used (inorganic phosphates). - Re-use of wash-waters within the production process (Calcium chloride).
-
17
Comments taken from: EU-level instruments on water reuse. Intermediate report. Amec Foster Wheeler, June 2015. 18
Comments taken from: EU-level instruments on water reuse. Intermediate report. Amec Foster Wheeler, June 2015. 19
Comments taken from: EU-level instruments on water reuse. Intermediate report. Amec Foster Wheeler, June 2015.
27
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
Covering common abatement measures in the sector includes the following: - Applying appropriate water re-use techniques to minimise water consumption in rinsing processes. - Recycling or re-use waters back to the processes or to secondary uses (e.g. cleaning).
Large Volume Organic Chemical Industry
BREF (02.2003)
D1 (04.2014)
MR (12.2010)
Yes
MR: The document does not mention anything related to water reuse or recycling. BREF:20 GENERIC LVOC PRODUCTION PROCESSES Re-use of water from washing, rinsing and equipment cleaning Re-use of water as boiler water (requires treatment of wastewater) Water-free vacuum generation (closed circuit procedure). LOWER OLEFINS Reuse of condensates in steam generation Recycling the water after appropriate treatment for direct contact water quenching Water recycling in acid gas removal ETHANOLAMINES Recycling of water separated from the ethanolamines Recycling of purge water TDI/MDI Re-use of water that is used in the operation of vacuum pumps could be re-used as process water. ETHYLBENZENE Almost all water/condensates arising from the ethyl benzene process can be reused as boiler feed water after stripping.
(Re) activation of the TWG: 2009. Submission of Final Draft BREF to the IED Article 13 forum for its opinion: 2016. Review ongoing.
20
Comments taken from: EU-level instruments on water reuse. Intermediate report. Amec Foster Wheeler, June 2015.
28
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
HYDROGEN PEROXIDE Reuse of water following distillation Reuse the water from the concentration operation Reuse the water from WS regeneration and drying (plants that use vacuum drying as a technique). ETHYLENE DICHLORIDE AND VINLY CHLORIDE Reuse of aqueous streams from washing operations
Manufacture of Glass
BATC (03.2012)
BREF (2013)
- - Yes
BATC & BREF: Both documents make the same references to water reuse and recycling. Water is used mainly for cleaning and cooling and can be readily treated or reused. In section 1.1.5. Emissions to water from glass manufacturing processes: "12. BAT is to reduce water consumption by using one or a combination of the following techniques", among others: "Reuse of cooling and cleaning waters after purging (recirculation of scrubbing water)"; "Operate a quasi-loop water system as far as technically and economically feasible". "13. BAT is to reduce the emission load of pollutants in the waste water discharges by using one or a combination of some waste water treatment systems", among them: "External reuse of waste waters (applicability generally limited to the frits sector)".
It has been reviewed.
Manufacture of Organic Fine Chemicals
BREF (08.2006)
- - Yes
BREF:21 In the sulphonation with SO3 in gas-liquid reaction: waste water only arise from the alkaline scrubbing of exhaust gas, and >95% of the scrubbing liquid is recycled. In the waste streams from nitrations: wash-waters and filtrates from
-
21
Comments taken from: EU-level instruments on water reuse. Intermediate report. Amec Foster Wheeler, June 2015.
29
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
the recrystallization can sometimes be re-used in the process instead of fresh water. In the waste streams from sulphonation: wash-waters and filtrates from crystallisation can be re-used for the primary crystallisation step instead of fresh water. In the destruction of free cyanides with H2O2: re-use of waste water streams given that for the reconditioning process is needed water with high cyanide content.
Non-ferrous Metals Industries
BATC (06.2016)
FD (10.2014)
MR (09.2007)
Yes
BATC: "BAT 14. In order to prevent or reduce the generation of waste water, BAT is to use one or a combination of the techniques given below: a. Reuse waste water from cleaning operations (including anode and cathode rinse water) and spills in the same process.[…] d. Reuse waste water from slag granulation. e. Reuse surface run-off water. […] g. Reuse treated water from the waste water treatment plant". "BAT 53. In order to prevent the generation of waste water from primary and secondary copper production, BAT is to use one or a combination of the techniques given below:[…] b. Reuse the water collected from the cooling area, flotation process and hydro transportation of final slag in the slag concentration process. c. Recycle the pickling solutions and the rinse water. […]". "BAT 72. In order to prevent the generation of waste water, BAT is to reuse or recycle cooling water and treated waste water, including rainwater, withing the process". "BAT 102. In order to prevent the generation of waste water from the alkaline leaching process, BAT is to reuse the water from the
-
30
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
sodium sulphate crystallisation of the alkali salt solution". "BAT 129. In order to prevent the generation of waste water from the melting and casting of zinc ingots, BAT is to reuse the cooling water". FD: Within the General BAT conclusions: In section 11.1.7. Water and waste water management: "BAT 12. In order to prevent or reduce the generation of waste water, BAT is to use one or a combination of the techniques given below, among others: - Reuse of waste water from slag granulation. - Reuse of surface run-off water. - Use of a closed circuit cooling system. - Reuse of treated water from the waste water treatment plant". Within the BAT conclusions for copper production: In section 11.2.6. Waste water generation of soil and groundwater: "BAT 54. In order to prevent the generation of waste water from primary and secondary copper production, BAT is to use one or a combination of the techniques given below, among others: Recycle the picking solutions and the rinse water". Within the BAT conclusions for aluminium production including alumina and anodes production: In section 11.3.4.2. Waste water generation: "BAT 77. In order to prevent the generation of waste water, BAT is to reuse or recycle cooling water and treated waste water, including rainwater, within the process". Within the BAT conclusions for lead and tin production: In section 11.4.4. Waste water generation and treatment: "BAT 11. In order to prevent the generation of waste water from the alkaline leaching process, BAT is to reuse the water from the
31
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
crystallisation of the alkali salt solution". Within the BAT conclusions for zinc and cadmium production: In section 11.5.4.2. Waste water, of Melting, alloying and casting of zinc ingots and zinc powder production: "BAT 141. In order to prevent the generation of waste water from the melting and casting of zinc ingots, BAT is to reuse the cooling water after extracting the heat with either cooling towers or heat exchangers connected to a secondary circuit". MR: Installation specific operational data needed to draw useful BAT conclusions: "The information reported should distinguish between cooling water and process water, and indicate whether water is re-used and how much".
Production of Cement, Lime and Magnesium Oxide
BATC (04.2013)
- - Yes
BATC & BREF: Both documents make the same references to water reuse and recycling. Diffuse dust emissions: "41. In order to minimise/prevent diffuse dust emissions from bulk storage areas, BAT is to use one or a combination of the following techniques", among others: "Reduce diffuse dust emissions at stockpiles by using sufficient humidification of stockpile charging and discharging points.[…] When using humidification or spraying measures/techniques, the ground can be sealed and the surplus water can be gathered, and if necessary this can be treated and used in closed cycles".
- BREF
(2013)
Production of BATC
(12.2013)
- - Yes BATC & BREF: -
32
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
Chlor-alkali
BREF (2014)
Both documents make the same references to water reuse and recycling. In Generation of waste water: "BAT 4. In order to reduce the generation of waste water, BAT is to use a combination of the techniques", among others: - "Recycling of other process streams. - Recycling of salt-containing waste water from other production processes". In 7. Emissions to water: "BAT 13. In order to reduce emissions of free chlorine to water from the chlor-alkali plant, BAT is to treat waste water streams containing free chlorine as close as possible to the source, by using one or a combination of several techniques", among others: - "Acidic decomposition (by recycling of the waste water to the brine system). - Waste water recycling. BAT 14. In order to reduce emissions of chlorate to water from the chlor-alkali plant, BAT is to use one or a combination of different techniques", among others: "Use of waste water streams containing chlorate in other production units".
Production of Polymers
BREF (08.2007)
- - Yes
BREF: In section : BAT for polyethylene is: "to use closed loop cooling systems". BAT for the production of ESBR is: "to recycle water". In section: BAT for the production of polyethylene terephthalate fibres is: "to apply a waste water pre-treatment such as: stripping, recycling or equivalent, before sending waste water form PET production processes to a WWT plant".
-
33
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
Production of Pulp, Paper and Board
BATC (09.2014)
BREF (2015)
- - Yes
BATC & BREF: Both documents make the same references to water reuse and recycling. "BAT 5. In order to reduce fresh water use and generation of waste water, BAT is to close the water system to the degree technically feasible in line with the pulp and paper grade manufactured by using a combination of the techniques given below: […] - Evaluation of water recirculation options. - Separation of less contaminated sealing water from pumps for vacuum generation and reuse. - Separation of clean cooling water from contaminated process water and reuse. - Reusing process water to substitute for fresh water (water recirculation and closing of water loops). - In-line treatment of (parts of) process water to improve water quality to allow for recirculation or reuse". In section 1.2.1. Waste water and emissions to water: "BAT 19. In order to reduce emissions of pollutants into receiving waters from the whole mill, BAT is to use TCF or modern ECF bleaching and a suitable combination of the techniques given below […]: - Partial process water recycling in the bleach plant. - Stripping the contaminated (foul) condensates and reusing the condensates in the process". In section 1.5.2. Waste water and emissions to water: "BAT 43. In order to reduce the generation of waste water, BAT is to use a combination of the techniques given below: […] water recirculation".
-
34
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
Production of Speciality Inorganic Chemicals
BREF (08.2007)
- - -
BREF: The document does not mention any BAT related to water reuse or recycling.
-
Refining of Mineral Oil and Gas
BATC (10.2014)
BREF (2015)
- - Yes
BATC & BREF: Both documents make the same references to water reuse and recycling. 1.1.7. Emissions to water: "BAT 11. In order to reduce water consumption and the volume of contaminated water, BAT is to use all of the techniques given below: […] Water stream integration. Reduction of process water produced at the unit level prior to discharge by the internal reuse of water streams from e.g. cooling, condensates, especially for use in crude desalting". 1.8. BAT conclusions for the desalting process: "BAT 33. In order to reduce water consumption and emissions to water from the desalting process, BAT is to use one or a combination of the techniques given below: […] recycling water and optimisation of the desalting process".
-
Slaughterhouses and Animals By-products Industries
BREF (05.2005)
- - Yes
Water reuse is mentioned in: - 4.1.6. Use of cooling water and water from vacuum pumps: "water from cooling systems, which has not previously been in contact with the products, by-products or other substances and which is of drinking water quality, can be used in some applications". - 4.1.31. Frequent cleaning of materials storage areas - odour
(Re) activation of the TWG: (2017) Submission of Final Draft BREF to the IED Article 13 forum for its
35
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
prevention: "there may be opportunities for the water after cleaning, to re-use it from sources which have not been in contact with animals or animal by-products and from the WWTP". - 4.2.2.5.1. Re-use of cooling water from singeing kiln (pig singeing - slaughterhouses): "cooling water can be collected from the singeing kiln and distributed to, e.g. the scalding tank, if used, or the scraping and polishing section. [...] The water can also be used for cleaning". - 4.2.4.3. CIP (cleaning-in-place)(slaughterhouses): "It is possible to recover and re-use water and chemicals within the system". As a additional BAT for the slaughter of large animals: BAT is to: "8. re-use cold water within pig de-hairing machines". As a suggested topic for future R&D projects (section 7.6.), "studies could identify possibilities for using non-potable water for some unit operations, thereby allowing certain slaughterhouse water to be re-used".
opinion: (2020).
Smitheries and Foundries Industry
BREF (05.2005)
- - Yes
Water reuse is identified within the techniques to consider in the determination of BAT for foundries: - Section 4.6.1. Measures to prevent the generation of waste water: "biological scrubbers generate less waste water than conventional wet scrubbers because biologically treated waste water can be recirculated more often; an extensive recycling of scrubbing water requires the use of treatments facilities; the multiple use of treated waste water (e.g. using process water from sand preparation in the moulding sand cycle or in slag granulation...)". - Section 4.6.6. Reduction of glycols in die-casting waste water streams: "the cleaned waste water may be re-used as a solvent for the release agent". Related to waste water, "BAT is all of the following, to: […] to maximise the internal recycling of process water and the multiple use of treated waste water".
(Re) activation of the TWG: 2017 Submission of Final Draft BREF to the IED Article 13 forum for its opinion: 2020.
36
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
Surface Treatment Of Metals and Plastics
BREF (08.2006)
- - Yes
BREF: In Water minimisation in-process section (5.1.5.1.): "It is BAT to minimise water usage by: […] recovering water from rinsing solutions by one of the techniques described in the documents and re-use in a process suitable for the quality of the water recovered". In section 5.1.6.1. Prevention and reduction: "It is BAT to prevent the loss of metals and other raw materials together by reducing and managing drag-out to both concentrate and re-use drag out and recycle rinse-waters". In the section 5.1.6.4. Recycling and recovery: "After applying techniques for the prevention and reduction of losses, it is BAT to identify and segregate wastes and waste waters either at the process stage or during waste water treatment to facilitate the recovery or re-use".
-
Surface Treatment Using Organic Solvents
BREF (08.2007)
- MR
(11.2015)
Yes
MR: Water reuse is not directly mentioned in this document. BREF: Within the chapter of: Re-use/recycling of rinsing water, there are, as regards water reuse, the following interesting sections: - 20.4.1.1. Regeneration by ion exchange (spent rinse-water can be regenerated). - 20.4.1.2. Re-use of water within the plant ("recycling of water by use of closed loop systems such as cooling towers -open and closed systems- or heat exchangers reduces the amount of water used on the line"). In the section of Reducing, re-using and recycling rinsing water and raw materials, it is considered: "22. BAT is to conserve raw materials and water for water-based treatment techniques, such as by: […] recovering the raw materials
The review of the STS BREF includes the activity of wood and wood products preservation with chemicals (WPC). (Re)activation of the TWG: 2014 Submission of Final Draft BREF to the IED Article 13 forum for its opinion: 2018.
(including Wood and Wood Products Preservation with Chemicals)
37
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
and/or water by using techniques such as: the ion exchange". As regards the re-use/recycling of cooling water: "23. Where water is used to cool equipment, process lines, etc., BAT is to reduce water consumption by using closed cooling systems and/or using heat exchangers".
Tanning of Hides and Skins
BATC (02.2013)
- - Yes
BATC: According to the document, the review of options for the reuse of process/washing water is part of an Environmental Management System (BAT 1) and of the principles of good housekeeping (BAT2), namely: "v. segregation of waste streams, where practicable, in order to allow for the recycling of certain waste streams and viii. review of options for the reuse of process/washing water". BREF: Within chapter: 4.3. Reduction of water consumption, the following sections are interesting: - Rainwater management, "if roof water is to be used as a water source, rainwater separators may be needed". - Reuse of individual floats or treated waste water, which deals the reuse of the process water. - Recycling and reuse of chromium solutions are related as well. According to the document, the review of options for the reuse of process/washing water is part of an Environmental Management System (BAT 1) and of the principles of good housekeeping (BAT2), namely: "v. segregation of waste streams, where practicable, in order to allow for the recycling of certain waste streams and viii. review of options for the reuse of process/washing water".
It has been reviewed. BREF
(2013)
Textiles Industry
BREF (07.2003)
- - Yes
BREF: General BAT for batch dyeing processes: BAT is to "re-use rinse water for the next dyeing or reconstitution and re-use the dye bath when technical considerations allow".
(Re) activation of the TWG: 2016. Submission of Final Draft BREF to the
38
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
In Printing: BAT is to: - "Re-use of the cleanest part of the rinsing water from the cleaning of the squeegees, screens and buckets. - Re-use of the rinsing water from cleaning of the printing belt". Mothproofing of yarn produced via the dry spinning route: BAT is to use one or both of several techniques, among others: "apply proportional over-treatment of 5% of the total fibre blend combined with dedicated dyeing machinery and waste water recycling systems to minimise active substance emissions to water".
IED Article 13 forum for its opinion: 2019.
Waste Incineration
BREF (08.2006)
- MR
(01.2015)
Yes
MR: Water consumption is not a key environmental issue for the WI sector. BREF: Water reuse & recycling are mentioned in: - Section 4.5.4. Re-circulation of polluted waste water in wet gas cleaning systems. - Section 4.5.7.Treatment of laboratory waste water in the scrubber. - Section 4.5.8. Re-circulation of effluents to the process in place of their discharge. It is identified as a Generic BAT for all waste incineration: "46. the general optimisation of the re-circulation and re-use of waste water arising on the site within the installation, including for example, if it is of sufficient quality, the use of boiler drain water as a water supply for the wet scrubber in order to reduce scrubber water consumption by replacing scrubber feed-water".
(Re) activation of the TWG: 2014. Submission of Final Draft BREF to the IED Article 13 forum for its opinion: 2018. Review ongoing.
Waste Treatment
BREF (08.2006)
D1 (12.2015)
MR (11.2013)
Yes
MR: Water reuse & recycling is not mentioned. BREF: In section Waste Water management: "BAT is to": "34. Perform washing processes considering:
(Re) activation of the TWG: 2013. Submission of Final Draft BREF to the IED Article 13 forum for its
39
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
c. using treated waste water for the WT plant for washing instead of fresh water. The resultant waste water can then be treated in the WWWTP or re-used in the installation". "45. Have in place and operate an enclosure system whereby rainwater falling on the processing areas is collected along with tanker washings, occasional spillages, drum washings, etc. and returned to the processing plant or collected in a combined interceptor". "48. Collect the rainwater in a special basin for checking, treatment if contaminated and further use. 49. Maximise the re-use of treated waste waters and use of rainwater in the installation". In section 5.2. BAT for specific types of waste treatments, in biological treatments: "67. b. Recycling of the maximum amount of waste water" to the reactor when applying anaerobic digestion. "69. Improve the mechanical biological treatments (MBT) by recycling process waters or muddy residues within the aerobic treatment process to completely avoid water emissions".
opinion: 2017. Review ongoing.
Wood-based Panels Production
BATC (11.2015)
- - Yes
BATC & BREF: Both documents make the same references to water reuse and recycling. In section 1.1.2. Good housekeeping: "BAT 2. In order to minimise the environmental impact of the production process, BAT is to apply good housekeeping principles using", among other techniques: - "Review options for the reuse of process water and the use of secondary water sources". In section 1.3. Emissions to water: "BAT 26. In order to prevent or reduce the generation of process
- BREF
(2016)
40
BREFs Adopted/
Formal draft Meeting
report
Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Status
Published Document
(*)
waste water from wood fibre production, BAT is to maximise process water recycling".
41
ANNEX II: Analysis of water reuse and recycling in Best Environmental Management Practices.
Priority sectors Document Published Water reuse mentioned
Water reuse and recycling Current status
Construction
Final Draft - JRC report on
BEMP in the Building and
Construction Sector
(2012)
201222 Yes
Water reuse is indirectly present in the document. For instance, it is considered BEMP: - "Establish criteria for the green procurement of construction services, both in public or private tenders, for: water saving measures". - "Plan, design and implement water saving fixtures according to best available techniques for water saving and fulfilling internationally recognised environmental criteria". But also, there are direct references to water reuse. For instance, it is considered BEMP: - "Harvest rainwater, reuse it and recycle grey water, according to the applicability of these options". The chapter 3.4.6.3. Non-potable water recycling systems develops this BEMP: - Rainwater collection systems: "The harvested water can be used for non-potable demand such as toilet flushing, washing machines, irrigation, cooling towers or general cleaning purposes". - "Grey water may be collected and reused for non-potable water applications such as toilet flushing and irrigation by the installation of separate waste water drainage systems for toilets and grey water sources".
The SRD on BEMP for the construction sector is currently in preparation and it
will follow the legislative process for its adoption by
the European Commission.
Tourism
Detailed technical report:
JRC Scientific and Policy 201323 Yes
In section 5.4. Optimised small-scale laundry operations: "Water from the final rinse may be reused either in the prewash, the main wash or the
The SRD on BEMPs for the tourism sector has been
22
http://susproc.jrc.ec.europa.eu/activities/emas/documents/ConstructionSector.pdf 23
http://susproc.jrc.ec.europa.eu/activities/emas/documents/TourismBEMP.pdf
42
Priority sectors Document Published Water reuse mentioned
Water reuse and recycling Current status
Report on BEMP in the
Tourism Sector (2013)
first rinse of the subsequent load" in an optimised laundry configuration (Points: 5.4. and 5.5.). In section 11.3.4. Accommodation water consumption: "Reuse rinse water in laundry installations and, in high-water stress areas, main wash water following micro-filtration". In section 11.5. Benchmarks of excellence and links to BEMPs and related specific indicators: - "Install a greywater recovery system that recovers greywater for use in indoor processes (e.g. toilet flushing) following treatment or exterior processes (e.g. irrigation), or a rainwater collection system that uses rainwater for indoor purposes" (Point 5.7.). For the minimisation of water consumption, it is mentioned several measures related to water reuse in the table 5.2. Portfolio of techniques important for the minimisation of water consumption. For instance: - In the optimised small-scale laundry processes: "installation of holding tanks and programme modification to reuse rinse water" (Point 5.4.); - In the optimised large-scale laundry processes: "press and rinse water reuse and wash water recovery where economically viable" (Point 5.5.); - In the water management in kitchens: "green procurements of efficient dishwashers with water reuse and heat recovery" (Point 8.3.); - In water management of campsites: "reuse of grey water for irrigation and toilet flushing" (Point 9.5.). Regarding the swimming pool areas, backwash water recycling (in all pools) and backwash water reuse (where water scarce) are some of the best practice
adopted by the European
Commission.
43
Priority sectors Document Published Water reuse mentioned
Water reuse and recycling Current status
measures to reduce water consumption (table 5.29. Best practice measures to reduce water, energy and chemical consumption in swimming pool areas).
EMAS SRD on BEMP in
the Tourism Sector (2016) 201624 Yes
BEMP is to: - Optimised small-scale laundry operations: "reuse rinse water in laundry installations and, in high-water stress areas, the main wash water following micro-filtration" (Point 3.4.4.). - Rainwater and grey water recycling: "install a grey water recovery system that recovers grey water for use in indoor processes (e.g. toilet flushing) following treatment, or for exterior processes (e.g. irrigation), or a rainwater collection system that uses rainwater for indoor purposes" (Point 3.4.7.).
Food and Beverage manufacturing sectors
Final draft - JRC report on
BEMP in the Food and
Beverage Manufacturing
Sector (2015)
201525 Yes
Water reuse is mentioned in: In section 3.5. Environmentally friendly cleaning operations: - In the Cleaning In Place (CIP), it is identified as a way to optimise water reuse: to include the "re-use of final rinse water for pre-rinse and recycling of detergent". - "In 2007 Kraft Foods – now part of the multinational food and beverage conglomerate Mondelēz International – implemented an optimised CIP system, along with other innovations such as the re-use of production waste water, at its Vegemite factory in Australia". - The minimisation of water consumption in olive oil separation (Point 5.4.1.). "Water scarcity is an
The SRD on BEMPs for the Food and
Beverage manufacturing
sector is currently in preparation and it
will follow the legislative process for its adoption by
the European Commission.
24
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32016D0611&from=EN 25
http://susproc.jrc.ec.europa.eu/activities/emas/documents/FoodBeverageBEMP.pdf
44
Priority sectors Document Published Water reuse mentioned
Water reuse and recycling Current status
increasingly important issue in major olive oil-producing countries". Treated waste water reuse has been very low in these countries; consequently, "water reduction and the associated reduction in waste water generation should be seen as a major driver in these three countries". "Water can be used for the washing stage could be collected, stored in a tank/pond, allowing particles to settle, and then it can be recirculated and reused in the washing stage". - In cheesemaking operations, section 10.4.1. Recovery of whey: "Some larger frontrunner manufacturers will reuse the waste water recovered from the whey […] within their own facility". In section 12.4.1. Reducing water use, organic generation and energy use in the winery: - In the manufacture of wine: "In order to reduce the water use in wineries, cleaning operations can be improved. Wine producers can install equipment with high water efficiency (low flow, water recirculation, water reuse) for all processes with substantial water use".
Public Administration
Final Draft - JRC report on
BEMP in the Public
Administration Sector
(2015)
201526 Yes
In section 6.3. Fostering the deployment of green roofs and integration with renewable energy generation, it is mentioned like a water savings: "if storm-water is captured from green roofs, it can be reused for a number of non-potable applications such as toilet flushing or garden watering, thereby
The SRD on BEMPs for the public
administration sector is currently in preparation and it
will follow the
26
http://susproc.jrc.ec.europa.eu/activities/emas/documents/PublicAdminBEMP.pdf
45
Priority sectors Document Published Water reuse mentioned
Water reuse and recycling Current status
reducing the quantity of water that needs to be abstracted and treated to drinking water standard". In section 2.2. Managing and minimising water consumption, the document shows two key mechanisms for reducing potable water use in offices and supplementing mains water: "harvested rainwater and/or recycled greywater".
legislative process for its adoption by
the European Commission.
Agriculture
Final Draft - JRC report on
BEMPs in the Agriculture
Sector - Crop and Animal
Production (2015)
201527 Yes
Within the water management farm, it is mentioned as a water saving measure (table 3.20. Template of a water management farm): "reduce and reuse water where possible and practical and recycle water such as collecting rainwater run-off from roofs and clean yard areas". Likewise, in the protected horticulture (section 12), to solve the possible effects on the environment from pollutants in open systems, "water drained out from the cultivation system can be collected and reused for successive irrigations by putting in place a closed-loop system".
The SRD on BEMPs for the agriculture
sector is currently in preparation and it
will follow the legislative process for its adoption by
the European Commission.
Retail trade sector
JRC report on BEMPs in
the Retail Trade Sector
(2013)
201328 Yes BEMP is to: - "Collect and reuse and/or infiltrate on site rainwater from roofs and parking areas" (Point 2.6.).
-
EMAS SRD for the Retail 201529 Yes
BEMP is to: - Rainwater collection and reuse: "Collect and reuse and/or infiltrate on site rainwater from roofs and
27
http://susproc.jrc.ec.europa.eu/activities/emas/documents/AgricultureBEMP.pdf 28
http://susproc.jrc.ec.europa.eu/activities/emas/documents/RetailTradeSector.pdf 29
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32015D0801&from=EN
46
Priority sectors Document Published Water reuse mentioned
Water reuse and recycling Current status
Trade Sector (2015) parking areas" (Point 3.6.).
Electrical and Electronic Equipment Manufacturing sector
-
No (publication planned for the end of
2016)
- -
The JRC is currently processing the
feedback gathered at the technical
working group kick-off and final meeting
and collecting further feedback
with a view to finalising the
detailed technical report by the end of
2016.
Car Manufacturing sector
- Ongoing - -
The final meeting of the Technical
Working Group was held in June 2016.
Waste management Sector
- Started - -
The JRC is currently cooperating with the
Technical Working Group, in order to
develop the detailed technical report by
early 2017.
Manufacture of Fabricated Metal Products sector
- Started - -
The kick-off meeting of the TGW is scheduled for
September 2016, while the final
47
Priority sectors Document Published Water reuse mentioned
Water reuse and recycling Current status
meeting is planned for the second half
of 2017.
Telecommunications and ICT services sector
- - - -
The final background report will be the
basis for discussion at a second and final meeting of the TWG which is planned for
November 2016.
48
49
ANNEX III: Analysis of water reuse and recycling in Ecolabel.
Product groups Commission
Decision Valid until
Water reuse mentioned
Revision Water reuse and recycling
Rinse-off Cosmetic Products
2014/893/EU30 09/12/2018 No - -
Absorbent Hygiene Products
2014/763/EU31 24/10/2018 No - -
All-purpose cleaners and sanitary cleaners
2011/383/EU32 31/12/2016 No Ongoing -
Detergents for dishwashers
2011/263/EU33 31/12/2016 No Ongoing -
Industrial and Institutional automatic dishwasher detergents
2012/720/EU34 14/11/2016 No Ongoing -
Hand dishwashing detergents
2011/382/EU35 31/12/2016 No Will be launched shortly -
Laundry detergents
2011/264/EU36 31/12/2016 No Ongoing -
30
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014D0893&from=EN 31
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014D0763&from=EN 32
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32011D0383&from=EN 33
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32011D0263&from=EN 34
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32012D0720&from=EN 35
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32011D0382&from=EN 36
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32011D0264&from=EN
50
Product groups Commission
Decision Valid until
Water reuse mentioned
Revision Water reuse and recycling
Industrial and institutional laundry detergents
2012/721/EU37 14/11/2016 No Ongoing -
Textiles 2014/350/EU38 05/06/2018 Yes Not started
Within the Criterion 15. Washing, drying and curing energy efficiency, it is considered that furthermore, the applicants shall demonstrate that production sites have implemented a minimum number of Best Available Techniques (BAT) energy efficiency techniques. Among these BAT techniques appear water reuse measures such us: "use of cooling water as process water or re-use/recycling water and liquor in batch processes. […] The evidence required of BAT implementation shall include, as a minimum, site photographs, and technical descriptions of each technique and evaluations of the energy savings achieved".
Footwear 2009/563/EC39 31/12/2016 No
Ongoing. The Committee gave its positive opinion on the revised criteria and they are under the scrutiny of the European Council and European Parliament.
-
37
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32012D0721&from=EN 38
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014D0350&from=EN 39
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32009D0563&from=EN
51
Product groups Commission
Decision Valid until
Water reuse mentioned
Revision Water reuse and recycling
At the end of the scrutiny period (3 months), they will be subject to be adopted by the European
Commission.
Paints and Varnishes
2014/312/EU40 28/05/2018 No Not started -
Imaging equipment
2013/806/EU41 17/12/2017 No Will be launched shortly -
Personal computers
2011/337/EU42 31/12/2016 No
Ongoing. The Committee gave its positive opinion on the revised criteria and they are under the scrutiny of the European Council and European Parliament. At the end of the scrutiny period (3 months), they will be subject to be adopted by the European
Commission.
-
Notebook computers
2011/330/EU43 31/12/2016 No
Ongoing. The Committee gave its positive opinion on the revised criteria and they are under the scrutiny of the European Council and European Parliament. At the end of the scrutiny period (3 months), they will be subject
-
40
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014D0312&from=EN 41
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32013D0806&from=EN 42
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32011D0337&from=EN 43
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32011D0330&from=EN
52
Product groups Commission
Decision Valid until
Water reuse mentioned
Revision Water reuse and recycling
to be adopted by the European Commission.
Televisions 2009/300/EC44 31/12/2016 No Ongoing -
Wooden Floor coverings
2010/18/EC45 31/12/2016 No Ongoing -
Hard coverings 2009/607/EC46 30/11/2017 Yes To be decided
Within the general requirements for raw material extraction (Section 1 of the criteria), the raw material extraction management for natural stones shall be "scored" according to a matrix of six main indicators. One of these indicators is the water recycling ratio whose objective is (Section 4.2. Water consumption and use): "the waste water produced by the processes included in the production chain shall reach a recycling ratio of at least 90%" of the waste water produced. ("For waste water is meant only the water used in processing plants, not comprehensive of the fresh water coming from rain and subsoil water"). In addition to the scoring table, the following mandatory conditions shall be met (among others): "There shall be a waste water recovery closed system for avoiding sawing waste dispersion to the environment and to
44
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32009D0300&from=EN 45
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32010D0018&from=EN 46
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32009D0607&from=EN
53
Product groups Commission
Decision Valid until
Water reuse mentioned
Revision Water reuse and recycling
feed the recycling loop. Water shall be contained in close proximity to the place where it is used in quarrying operations and then it shall be conveyed by closed pipes to the suitable processing plant. After clearing, water shall be recycled".
Wooden Furniture 2009/894/EC47 31/12/2016 No
Ongoing. The Committee gave its positive opinion on the revised criteria and they are under the scrutiny of the European Council and European Parliament. At the end of the scrutiny period (3 months), they will be subject to be adopted by the European
Commission.
-
Growing Media, Soil Improvers and mulch
2015/2099/EU48 18/11/2019 No - -
Heat pumps 2007/742/EC49 31/12/2016 No To be decided -
Water-based Heaters
2014/314/EU50 28/05/2018 No To be decided -
Lubricants 2011/381/EU51 31/12/2018 No Will be launched shortly -
Bed mattresses 2014/391/EU52 23/06/2018 No Not started -
47
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32009D0894&from=EN 48
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32015D2099&from=EN 49
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32007D0742&from=EN 50
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014D0314&from=EN 51
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32011D0381&from=EN 52
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014D0391&from=EN
54
Product groups Commission
Decision Valid until
Water reuse mentioned
Revision Water reuse and recycling
Sanitary tapware 2013/250/EU53 21/05/2017 No To be decided -
Flushing toilets and urinals
2013/641/EU54 07/11/2017 No To be decided -
Converted paper 2014/256/EU55 02/05/2017 No Not started -
Printed paper 2012/481/EU56 31/12/2018 No
Stationery paper products will fall within the scope of new EU Ecolabel criteria for 'Converted paper', which was voted positively last November 2013 by the EU Ecolabel Regulatory Committee. However, the criteria have not yet been adopted by the Commission, as the scrutiny period is still ongoing. Concurrently with the adoption of the converted paper criteria, the Commission will also adopt
an amendment deleting stationery paper products from the scope of EU Ecolabel criteria
for printed paper.
-
Copying and graphic paper
2011/332/EU57 31/12/2018 No A revision of the European Ecolabel criteria is ongoing for:
The Draft: Revision of the European Ecolabel criteria for: Copying and Graphic
53
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32013D0250&from=EN 54
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32013D0641&from=EN 55
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014D0256&from=EN 56
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32012D0481&from=EN 57
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32011D0333&from=EN
55
Product groups Commission
Decision Valid until
Water reuse mentioned
Revision Water reuse and recycling
Newsprint paper 2012/448/EU58 31/12/2018 No Copying and Graphic Paper, Newsprint Paper and Tissue Paper.
Paper, Newsprint Paper and Tissue Paper (May 2016), in contrast to the Commission Decisions on these products, mentions water reuse. Namely, in section 5.1. Water consumption control, reference is made to what other Ecolabel and green initiatives say. Among those initiatives are included the BREF recommendations: water circuits should be closed to the degree that is technically in line with the pulp and paper grade manufactured and recommends certain measures. Some of these measures include water reuse.
Tissue paper 2009/568/EC59 31/12/2018 No
Campsite services 2009/564/EC60 31/12/2016 Yes Ongoing
One of the general requirements that the applicant shall be guaranteed is: 51. Use of rainwater and recycled water: "Rainwater shall be collected and used for non-sanitary and non-drinking purposes. Recycled water shall be collected and used for non-sanitary and non-drinking purposes".
58
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32012D0448&from=EN 59
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32009D0568(01)&from=EN 60
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32009D0564&from=EN
56
Product groups Commission
Decision Valid until
Water reuse mentioned
Revision Water reuse and recycling
Tourist Accommodation services
2009/578/EC61 31/12/2016 Yes Ongoing
One of the general requirements that the applicant shall be guaranteed is: 50. Use of rainwater and recycled water: "Rainwater shall be collected and used for non-sanitary and non-drinking purposes. Recycled water shall be collected and used for non-sanitary and non-drinking purposes".
61
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32009D0578&from=EN
57
ANNEX IV: Analysis of water reuse and recycling in Green Public Procurement.
Product and service sectors Published Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Revision
Target completion
date
Cleaning products and services (currently under revision)
201262 No - In
progress Mid 2017
Combined Heat and Power (CHP)
201063 No - - -
Office Building Design, Construction and Management
201664 No - - -
Copying and graphic paper May 2016 Yes
In section 4.3. Water use: - Clarified water, super clear filtrate and purified water is mentioned in figure 4. Steps towards lower water consumption from paper production. - In order to reduce fresh water, BAT suggests "closing down the water system to the degree technically feasible", and among other techniques, are included measures related to water reuse. - Water reuse & recycling is considered in the verification of the award criteria: "AW1 Minimising water consumption during pulp and paper production".
In progress
-
200865 No There are references to the BREF "Pulp and paper - -
62
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/tbr/cleaning_tbr.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/toolkit/cleaning_product/en.pdf 63
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/chp_GPP_background_report.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/chp_GPP_product_sheet.pdf 64
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/Guidance_Buildings%20final.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/swd_2016_180.pdf
58
Product and service sectors Published Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Revision
Target completion
date
industry" and one chapter related to water consumption (2.2. Water and energy consumption during production), but there is no direct reference to water reuse.
Electrical and Electronic Equipment used in the Health Care Sector
201466 No The references to water in this document are related to water consumption in the dialysis phase. There is no reference to water reuse.
- -
Electricity 201267 No The mention of water in this document is related to hydropower. There is no reference to water reuse.
In progress
End 2016
Food and Catering services (currently under revision)
200868 No
There are references to the BREF "Food, drink and milk industry" and one chapter related to water consumption (2.4. Energy and water consumption and waste generation in manufactured food production), but there is no direct reference to water reuse.
In progress
Mid 2017
Furniture (currently under revision)
200869 No One of the key environmental impacts is: high water and energy consumption in the production of several materials but there is no reference to water reuse.
In progress
3rd quarter 2016
Gardening products and 201270 Yes Watering and irrigation is one of the key - -
65
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/toolkit/paper_GPP_background_report.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/toolkit/paper_GPP_product_sheet.pdf 66
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/criteria/health/TR%20Health%20Care%20EEE.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/criteria/health/EN.pdf 67
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/tbr/electricity_tbr.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/criteria/electricity.pdf 68
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/toolkit/food_GPP_background_report.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/toolkit/food_GPP_product_sheet.pdf 69
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/toolkit/furniture_GPP_background_report.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/toolkit/furniture_GPP_product_sheet.pdf 70
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/tbr/garderning_tbr.pdf
59
Product and service sectors Published Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Revision
Target completion
date
services environmental impacts and according to the document, the strategy for water saving should, among others, focus on using non-potable water for watering,. Regarding the EU GPP criteria, the 3.3. EU GPP criteria for Irrigation Systems shows as an award criterion: "Additional points will be awarded if the irrigation system can collect and use water from locally recycled sources, such as rain water, ground water and filtered grey water". Furthermore, the technical specification in 3.6. EU GPP criteria for Gardening Services in watering and water use management measures identifies the maximisation of the use of non-potable water (from rain, phreatic water or reused water) and as "verification: Tenderers must provide appropriate documentation demonstrating that these criteria are met". "The contracting authority will provide the guidelines based on the water resources availability characteristics specific to the climate and location of the irrigation system".
Imaging Equipment 201471 No Water can be required during the remanufacturing process; however, there is no reference to water reuse in the document.
- -
Indoor lighting 201272 No - - -
EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/criteria/gardening.pdf 71
Technical background report: http://ftp.jrc.es/EURdoc/JRC88789.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/criteria/imaging/EN.pdf 72
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/tbr/indoor_lighting_tbr.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/criteria/indoor_lighting.pdf
60
Product and service sectors Published Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Revision
Target completion
date
Office IT equipment (currently under revision)
201273 No - - -
Road Design, Construction and Maintenance
201674 No - - -
Sanitary Tapware 201375 No The water consumption chapter makes reference to water efficiency of the sanitary tapware. There is no reference to water reuse.
- -
Street lighting and traffic signals
201276 No
According to the distribution of impacts over the life cycle of a typical luminaire, water intervenes only in the production phase, but in the production phase chapter, there are no references to water. There is no reference to water reuse.
In progress
2017
Textiles (currently under revision)
201277 No
In the chapter on water and energy use, according to the Danish Environmental Protection Agency report, there is a large potential in the industry for water savings, including the reuse of waste water. There are no further comments with regard to water reuse.
In progress
3rd quarter 2016
Toilets and Urinals 201378 No - - -
73
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/tbr/office_it_equipment_tbr.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/criteria/office_it_equipment.pdf 74
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/GPP%20road%20guidance%20document.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/GPP%20criteria%20Roads%20(2016)%20203.pdf 75
Technical background report: http://susproc.jrc.ec.europa.eu/ecotapware/docs/GPP_Technical_background_Report_Tapware_final.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/criteria/sanitary/EN.pdf 76
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/tbr/street_lighting_tbr.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/criteria/street_lighting.pdf 77
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/tbr/textiles_tbr.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/criteria/textiles.pdf 78
Technical background report: http://ftp.jrc.es/EURdoc/JRC85991.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/criteria/toilets/criteria_Toilets_en.pdf
61
Product and service sectors Published Water reuse
mentioned Water reuse and recycling Revision
Target completion
date
Transport 201279 No Water is considered in the Production of vehicles chapter. However, there is noreference to water reuse in the documents.
In progress
2017
Wall Panels 201080 No - - -
Waste Water Infrastructure 201381 Yes
Chapter 6.4., considers water consumption during the construction phase and during the operation of the waste water infrastructure. During the operation phase, one of the factors determining this water use is the possibility for the reuse of treated waste water. As regards the key environmental impact of water consumption, the approach identified is the same as for GPP: promote reuse of water and use of grey/rain water.
- -
Water-based Heaters 201482 No - - -
79
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/tbr/transport_tbr.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/criteria/transport.pdf 80
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/wall_panels_GPP_background_report.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/wall_panels_GPP_product_sheet.pdf 81
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/waste_water_tech.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/waste_water_criteria.pdf 82
Technical background report: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/Technical%20report%20water-based%20heaters.pdf EU GPP criteria: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/pdf/criteria/water_based/heaters_en.pdf
62