ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF FISH AND MEAT CANNERIES

Abstract

This paper analyses the environmental impact produced by fish and meat canneries. The TULCO SA factory in Tulcea County is presented as a case study. Located on the Danube banks, it has a guaranteed and permanent source of fish and meat; fish from the Danube and fish farmers and pork and beef meat from a nearby breeding complex. Some specific analyzes of the impact on wastewater, air, and soils are illustrated. Impact on wastewater is detailed for the production of canned fish and pork and cattle meat, at different manufacturing stages, starting from unloading, removing scales, section of cutting and cleaning, until washing and degreasing the cans in which the fish and meat will be packed. Some results obtained based on local measurements are presented. Wastewater is cleaned in a treatment plant. Depending on the water temperature and charge with organic matter, the minimum hydraulic retention time is estimated to ensure the water quality that will be discharged into the Danube. The impact on the air is determined by the plants that operate continuously 20 h/day. Emissions of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur are analyzed. The impact on the soil is estimated by analyzing the waste or different substances resulting from the cans manufacturing process that can infiltrate into the soil. Finally, an environmental impact diagram is presented, considering all these aspects so that the overall effect remains negligible for the environment.