Environmental Regulatory Compliance

Implementing the NEPA process provides a pathway for decision-making and project development. NEPA requires the characterization of numerous resource components (natural, physical, and social environment) in the development of an environmental impact analysis relating to a proposed action/project. Most commonly, NEPA actions are required for projects involving federal funding or federal actions. There are three types of NEPA documents:

• • Categorical Exclusions (CE or CATEX)
  • Environmental Assessments (EA)
  • Environmental Impact Statements (EIS)
    

Guernsey prepares all three document types for our clients. CATEX documents usually result in a clear definition that the project has no major impacts and is excluded from detailed analysis by the nature of the project – it is categorically excluded based on criteria set forth by a given federal agency. EAs require more detailed analysis and assist in determining if an EIS might be required; if not, EAs usually result in a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI). EISs are more complex, and rely on a focused specified process, extensive public involvement and a Record of Decision (ROD). Guernsey can provide assistance and business value in the accomplishment of all three types of project clearances.

SPCCPs are intended to assist in the prevention of spills impacting public water supplies, stormwater systems, sewer systems and navigable waters of the United States. Our professionals assist public, commercial, federal, Department of Defense and industrial clients with SPCCP needs. Any non-transportation-related facility such as oil and gas, a manufacturing facility, an electric utility installation, an educational institution, a healthcare facility or any number of commercial entities may be subject to the SPCCP rule if it has a total above-ground oil storage capacity greater than 1,320 gallons, or a completely buried oil storage capacity greater than 42,000 gallons. We prepare SPCCPs, coordinate with regulatory agencies if required, and can provide support during EPA inspections if requested.

The quality of the air surrounds us 24/7. At Guernsey, we intimately understand compliance issues related to air quality and the many sources of air emissions that are prevalent in society. Our process/chemical engineering/environmental staff can assist with the assessment, inventorying, permitting, and design of air quality control/emission equipment as part of the air quality compliance process.

The requirements mandated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for greenhouse gas reporting are prescriptive and complex. They require quantification of carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O), methane (CH4) and fluorinated gas emissions from sources that include fugitive emissions, process emissions, stationary combustion and/or mobile combustion. Each facility/source had to have a plan in place for capturing required data starting on January 1, 2010.

Our engineering professionals can provide the process engineering, environmental reviews and other technical applications needed to evaluate monitoring requirements for your facility.