PCB Elimination
Overview
The Stockholm Convention targets PCBs as one of 12 POPs initially included in the Convention; it sets a goal of 2025 for phasing out the use of equipment containing PCBs (e.g. transformers, capacitors or other receptacles containing liquid stocks), and the treatment and elimination of the recovered PCBs by 2028.
At the country level, a PCB elimination implementation project may require: updating the preliminary PCB inventory developed as part of the NIP to increase its comprehensiveness;
developing PCB user phase-out plans in relevant organisations/institutions (including establishment of a permitting system and consequent regulations);
training relevant personnel in the safe handling of PCBs and PCB-containing equipment, including for their temporary storage;
developing criteria for, and determining possible PCB storage facilities, and completing training and implementation on upgrading of/developing such facilities (followed by the collection and secure storage of PCB-containing equipment);
regular inspection of equipment in use and out of service;
developing criteria for, and selection of a permanent PCB management facility, followed by developing or upgrading of the facilities; and
replacement of PCB fluids with a less harmful alternative(s).
Projects
Ghana: UNITAR is currently assisting the Ghana Environmental Protection Agency with the GEF project, “Ghana: Capacity Building for PCB Elimination”, which is presently in the PDF-B phase. UNITAR is executing the key international aspects of the project, such as:
- Overall coordination and provision of international technical assistance, including expert consultants/trainers
- Participation in key project meetings and workshops
- Provision of action plan “refresher” training
- Assistance with the development of a situation analysis/needs assessment for the project and drafts of the overall project document
Assistance
Upon request, and resources permitting, UNITAR, in cooperation with GEF Implementing Agencies and other partners, is available to assist countries with PCB elimination projects as part of their Stockholm Convention implementation efforts. For more information on how to access assistance in this area, please contact UNITAR. For further details, also see the Country Application Opportunities page.
|
