Our Position
Most manufacturing processes result in the release of some materials to the atmosphere. Strict controls are applied to ensure that the release of these materials, called emissions, are not harmful to people or the environment. Australian Paper has strict parameters and continuous monitoring for all major emissions to the atmosphere. The equipment and technologies used are up-to-date and under continuous refinement and improvement.

The main emissions that are monitored are Total Reduced Sulphur (TRS), Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Chlorine Dioxide (ClO2), Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx), particulates (fine and coarse) and Carbon Monoxide (CO).

All of our Mills seek to maintain their operations well within their license limits, however there have been times when these limits have not been met. The company has therefore implemented a program of further reduction and elimination of emission sources and works closely with environmental regulators to ensure that our performance is the best possible.

Our Performance
Our Tasmanian operations are located near the world's principal environmental air testing site, Cape Grim. The Cape Grim operation is at the forefront of monitoring for global climatic change and would instantly detect any change in emissions from our operations. In 2004/2005, our Tasmanian operations were 100% compliant with our air emission licences at Burnie and Wesleyvale Mills.

Since the introduction of an Environmental Management System in 2002 there have been no instances of non-compliance with our air emission license at the Shoalhaven Mill.

Maryvale Mill has developed a measurement index covering all major emission sources. This index has shown a 85% reduction in odour emissions since 1999 as a result of continual improvement of our operating procedures. The company has spent over $10 million on this program.

In addition, from 2008, Maryvale Mill will also cut sulphur oxide emissions by 80%, as a result of the new elemental chlorine-free bleaching plant that is currently being built.

Overall, our operations achieved a high level of compliance towards our air emission licences in 2004/2005, with Tasmania and Shoalhaven reaching 100% and Maryvale 92.9%.