Environmental Impact and Waste Management

Abstract

Oilseeds processing, refining and processing of vegetable oils, and further processing into oleochemicals, produces a variety of waste products. In no other industry is the proper handling of these wastes as dependent on the understanding and control of the processes. This article reviews major processes and facilities, particularly as they relate to waste generation and control. Wastes from a well-run facility are first defined, followed by an analysis of those processes that are the largest potential waste generators. In addition, those factors are reviewed that affect process control as it relates to waste generation, followed by a review of current issues. A final section addresses the fundamentals of wastewater treatment processes often employed in fats and oils and oilseeds processing. This article addresses air and solid waste aspects of the industries as well, but the primary focus is on wastewater. Keywords: wastewater treatment; waste management; caustic refining; physical refining; oilseeds processing; solid waste; air emissions; environment