Learn about plans adopted by Bay Area refineries and metal facilities to reduce emissions from their operations.
Refinery Flare Minimization Plans
Flare systems at petroleum refineries are used to dispose of hydrocarbon gases safely. The flare systems gather the vented gases and combust them to keep them from being released directly into the air.
Flaring is not allowed unless it follows an approved Flare Minimization Plan. The plans describe each flare, the equipment/procedures used to reduce flaring, and any other measures needed to prevent flaring.
Metal Facilities Emissions Minimization Plans
Metal facilities include foundries, forges, metal shredders, and recycling operations. These facilities can emit both particles and odors. The Air District requires metal facilities to follow an Emissions Minimization Plan that describes their operations and efforts to reduce emissions.