The pollution intensity of Australian power stations: a case study of the value of the National Pollutant Inventory (NPI)

摘要: This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the pollutant emissions from electrical generation facilities reported to Australia’s National Pollutant Inventory (NPI). The data, in terms intensity with respect capacity and fuel source, show significant variability. Based on dominant pathway environmental segment for is point-source air emissions. Surprisingly, power stations are generally very small fraction facility diffuse emissions, except F, HCl, NOx, PM2.5, SO2 H2SO4 (where it constitutes between 30 90 % emissions). In general, natural gas diesel have higher organic intensities, while black brown coal metal/metalloid intensities there wide variability inorganic intensities. When examining capacity, little evidence that increased scale leads more efficient operation or lower intensity. Another important finding loads associated transfers reuse substantial, often represent most pollutants given facility. Finally, issues identified NPI data its use, some possible improvements include following: (i) linking site (especially i.e., MWh); (ii) better validation documentation factors, especially methods used derive report estimates NPI; (iii) using undertake comparative life cycle impact assessment studies different fuel/energy sources, even intensive industrial regions toxicity perspective) (iv) region ongoing monitoring, so can be linked concentrations particular relevant guidelines (e.g., air, water, human health). inventory systems clearly valuable tools understanding pollution burdens growing body should help further improve public health outcomes. Overall, this study provides insight into current status benchmark future international comparisons.