Annual Guide 2025 I SOURCE TESTING ASSOCIATION
polyfl uoroalkyl substances), commonly known as “forever chemicals.” These substances are known for their resistance to breakdown, resulting in their persistence in the environment and raising signifi cant concerns regarding human health and ecological impacts.
The STA’s initiatives will encompass:
Examining Chemical Properties: STA aims to deepen the understanding of PFAS by studying their unique chemical structures that contribute to their stability and persistence. This exploration will help develop targeted strategies for detection and mitigation.
The original training room at the STA offi ce STA’s Commitment to Training
Over the years, the STA has expanded its training programs to meet the evolving needs of the industry. From the initial working at heights course launched in 1997, STA now offers a broad array of courses designed to enhance professional development. These courses cover areas like:
• Risk Assessment for Industrial Emission Monitoring • Regulatory Monitoring Requirements for Process Operators
• MCERTS Personnel Competency, including specialised courses for technicians and team leaders in areas such as particulate and gaseous monitoring.
More information can be found in the training article of this guide. Golden stack award
The Golden Stack Award, organised by the STA, was given biennially to a process operator who makes signifi cant efforts to ensure the safety, welfare, and comfort of stack testers in the fi eld. This prestigious award promotes improved working conditions for stack testers, who often operate in challenging environments. Nominees are evaluated based on criteria like site access, health and safety measures, accommodation, and management involvement. Past winners include companies such as Hanson Brick, Tata Steel, Veolia, and E.ON, who demonstrated exemplary standards in these areas.
Looking Ahead
As the STA celebrates its 30th anniversary, it refl ects on a rich history of achievements and looks to the future with a commitment to furthering excellence in emission monitoring. The association continues to evolve with the industry, ensuring that its members remain at the cutting edge of technology, safety, and environmental responsibility. The STA’s journey of excellence is a testament to the collaborative spirit and dedication of the entire emission monitoring community.
In the coming years, the STA will focus on addressing some of the most pressing issues in the fi eld of emission monitoring, including the complex challenge posed by PFAS (per- and
Widespread Use and Associated Concerns: The association will address the prevalence of PFAS across various industries, highlighting the extent of their use in products such as fi refi ghting foams, non-stick cookware, and industrial applications. This focus will shed light on how these chemicals migrate into air, water, and soil, emphasising the need for rigorous monitoring.
Challenges in Monitoring and Analysis: One of the core areas of work will be advancing methods for accurate and reliable monitoring of PFAS. This will involve developing standardised testing protocols and analytical methods that can effectively detect trace levels of these substances in complex matrices, including emissions and environmental samples.
Ongoing Access to Insights: The STA is committed to providing its members with continuous access to the latest fi ndings, best practices, and technological developments related to PFAS. This effort will include publishing guidance notes, conducting training seminars, and organising expert- led workshops that explore the intricacies of PFAS monitoring and regulatory compliance.
The STA will also direct signifi cant attention to current trends and developments in Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS), focusing on both its technical and regulatory landscape. This exploration will include a thorough analysis of the scope and regulatory challenges encountered by waste incineration and Energy from Waste (EfW) operators, delving into liability issues and the evolving role of local authorities in waste management.
CCUS Method Development and Rollout: The STA plans to explore the technical aspects of developing and implementing CCUS methodologies, ensuring that the emission monitoring community is well-informed and prepared for advancements in this fi eld. This work will also address the implications for emissions monitoring, particularly within the framework of the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), emphasising the importance of precise monitoring and reporting for regulatory compliance and environmental impact assessment.
Regulatory and Operational Challenges: The STA recognises the regulatory complexities that waste incineration and EfW operators face, such as aligning operations with stringent emissions guidelines while navigating liability and accountability issues. These discussions will be critical in understanding how regulations can be effectively met while optimising performance.
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