Identification and comparative study of especial industrial wastes using UNEP method, RCRA method, and Iran's written list: (A petrochemical complex in the western of Iran A case study)

The petrochemical industry is one of the most important production bases and the country''s development indicators. Since the production process involves the release of dozens of wastes and non- consumable materials، however، it often leads to creation of various wastes and have adverse effects on the natural environment. One very good way to create interaction and connection between the petrochemical industry and the environment and to reduce the adverse effects of industrial activities on the environment is identification and management of wastes in this industrial sector to reduce the environmental problems associated with its production and prevents loss of valuable and usable materials in the production process. This study aimed to identify and compare the special wastes of a petrochemical complex in the Western Iran to survey within the waste proper management framework and reduce the environmental risks associated with their production. After the identification and assessment of production process، the areas of production، type and volume of produced wastes، and the frequency of discharges were detected. Based on the proposed International (RCRA، UNEP) methods and Iran’s written list، the wastes were grouped and unique identifiers were assigned to each of the materials. In the studied industrial unit، 42 production areas produced 353 tons of wastes per year. The investigation showed that 65. 6% of wastes were produced permanently and 34. 3% were produced temporarily. The most important produced waste was industrial and waste oil. This material has toxicity، flammability، and reactivity properties; so safety is needed in handling them.