Farms listed in European Pollutant Register
They are included in the 10,000 large industrial facilities in the EU and Norway listed in the first Europe-wide register of industrial emissions into air and water, which the European Commission, through the European Environment Agency (EEA), has decided to make publicly accessible on the internet
The aim is to give European citizens the right to know how much pollution large industries in their neighbourhoods generate and to compare this with the situation in other parts of Europe. The information is also aimed at scientists, insurance companies, local authorities and policy makers.
Environment Commissioner Margot Wallström said: "People have the right to know how polluted their environment really is, because it directly affects their health and their quality of life. With this knowledge, they can put pressure on politicians and the industry. The information empowers them and is key to their involvement in environmental protection."
The www.eper.cec.eu.int website reveals that Co Cork has 32 sources of industrial emissions, including nine farms, six rubbish landfills (many of which are in rural locations) and a number of prominent food industries. The list also includes the now closed IFI plant at Marino Point in Cork Harbour.
Clare has two industries listed; Kerry four (including one landfill); and Limerick's five entries include two farms and a landfill. Waterford has one landfill and two pig farm among its seven entries.
Farms figure prominently among the 17 sources of industrial emissions listed for Co Tipperary. They include 12 farms and two landfills.
