Custom Developed Environmental Data Management System for Emissioin Factor and Source Test Referencing, 1998 Environmental Conference Proceedings

Robert Moore

Trinity Consultants Incorporated

Tony Jaegel

Louisiana-Pacific Corporation

The value of an information system is measured by the degree to which it meets the needs of its customer. Often, a custom-designed environmental data management system will provide greater value than an off-the-shelf system through a simple, effective design aligned specifically with the desired functionality of the customer. Such a custom environmental data management system was designed for Louisiana-Pacific Corporation’s (L-P’s) Samoa, California, Pulp Mill to serve as an on-line reference of emission factor and source test information. This system serves as a central repository for emission factor and source test information, performs air emission calculations, and allows ad-hoc querying of emissions information. To implement this system, L-P’s data management needs were assessed, a database was designed around those needs, the system was populated with emission factor and source test information, and environmental personal were trained in all aspects of the system’s operation. As a result of its custom design, this system has effectively and efficiently been used in SARA 313 reporting, air permitting, and as a general reference tool.