It all comes out in the wash. And unfortunately for the environment, this is exactly what used to happen with the washing of jet engines when compressor cleaning spilled wash water containing minerals, metals, oils and other contaminants on to the ground.
EcoServices is one company that is helping to make a difference by not only investing in new technology, but also by taking coordinated action to implement new operating procedures, as EcoPower’s Keith Root explains.
ISOfocus: With an ever-growing list of climate change concerns, how is EcoServices managing and reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions?
Keith Root: EcoServices is renowned for its EcoPower service, a patented, closed-loop, engine-wash system that uses pure, atomized and de-ionized water to wash engines for optimum efficiency. With no chemicals, spills or engine-wash effluent escaping into the groundwater, EcoPower provides an environmentally safe and fuel-efficient option for operators. It also collects wastewater, filters it and reuses it for the next wash. So it is not only better for the environment but also means longer maintenance intervals and slower turbine deterioration.
Another significant approach to reducing GHG emissions is through our voluntary compliance (verified by NSF International) with ISO 50001 on energy management. As set out in its remit, ISO 50001 helps EcoServices to improve and update our energy performance continuously, as well as systematically. EcoServices has low-energy demands in the performance of our jet engine wash services, but compliance with ISO 50001 helps us to ensure that we utilize energy most efficiently, thereby controlling GHG emissions.
How is GHG verification undertaken at EcoServices? Is the verification of a GHG statement conducted by an independent third party or by EcoServices internal auditors?
EcoServices is about to partner with NSF International to verify GHG emissions. NSF is an accredited, independent third-party certification body that tests and certifies products to verify that they meet public health and safety standards. It has over 70 years’ experience in conducting such audits, claiming “unmatched technical GHG expertise”. It says: “NSF’s climate programme was developed and is run by industry experts who possess the most up-to-date and accurate information to use in client reporting. We provide a dedicated client manager throughout the verification process to ensure prompt, accessible and appropriate communication.”
How does ISO 14064-31) ensure that the EcoServices inventory of emissions is undertaken accurately and completely?
Compliance with ISO 50001 guarantees that EcoServices is controlling energy consumption to maximize efficiency; and ISO 14064-3 is essential to ensure that our GHG emissions data is recorded, computed and reported accurately. EcoServices has a global network and whereas ISO 50001 focuses on activity to improve energy efficiency, the ISO 14064 series of standards concentrates on the report structures to ensure compliance and conformity with the accepted worldwide business community.
What added value does ISO 14064-3 bring EcoServices, such as credibility with stakeholders, greater confidence in the inventories, etc.? Is there any other information you wish to give companies looking to use ISO 14064-3?
ISO 14064 represents best practice for the reduction of GHG emissions along with requirements for their reporting and verification. For EcoServices, it provides credibility with stakeholders to verify complete and accurate accounting for GHG emissions reports. Furthermore, it brings international recognition and compatibility, with a framework and tools that are agreed on and respected internationally.
1) ISO 14064-3:2006, Greenhouse gases – Part 3: Specification with guidance for the validation and verification of greenhouse gas assertions, is currently under revision.
