342 Beyond Compliance: Empowering Water Experts with In-Depth ELG Insight

Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast, where we delve into the intricacies of the Steam Electric Generation Effluent Limitation Guidelines (ELGs). In this enlightening conversation, our esteemed guest, Bill Kennedy, PE of Stantec, an authority in the field, imparts invaluable insights into this pivotal aspect of environmental regulation. Our journey begins with a fundamental question: What are the Steam Electric Generation ELGs? Bill systematically demystifies these guidelines, clarifying that they are Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations specifically tailored for the electric power generation industry, profoundly influencing wastewater treatment technologies. Why are ELGs of significance to water professionals? Bill eloquently underscores their criticality, emphasizing that beyond regulatory constraints, these guidelines embody technology-driven limitations. They serve as instrumental benchmarks propelling the application of state-of-the-art wastewater treatment technologies, steering the industry towards sustainable practices. But it's not a one-way street. Bill encourages active participation from water treatment professionals to play an active role during the EPA’s revision period, stressing the tangible impact of their contributions. Yes, your input matters! Learn how to actively engage in shaping these guidelines and extend your involvement beyond official input periods. Feeling inundated by the myriad rules and regulations? Bill has a solution: Stay informed. Immerse yourself in industry groups, attend conferences, and keep an eye on reputable publications. It's through continuous learning and engagement that water professionals can navigate the ever-evolving landscape of regulations. In a fascinating twist,  Bill scrutinizes the nuanced distinction between pollutants and constituents of concern. Drawing parallels with daily life, he illuminates mass loading and concentration-based limits, urging us to discern between what truly poses a risk and what is a vital element in our environment. Join us in this intellectually stimulating episode where we unravel the intricacies of the Steam Electric Generation ELGs. Bill's wealth of knowledge and practical advice empowers water professionals not only to comprehend regulatory frameworks but also to actively contribute to shaping the trajectory of water treatment. It's a journey beyond compliance — towards forging a sustainable and resilient future for water management. Tune in now to scale up your understanding and take your career in water to new heights!   Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore ponders, ‘Why do we procrastinate and put off shopping for Christmas gifts?’  09:15 -  Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals  12:00 - Interview with Bill Kennedy of Stantec about Steam Electric Generation Effluent Limitation Guidelines (ELGs) 30:45 - IWC and the importance of mentoring and training for emerging professionals 41:10 Lightning Round Questions 48:45 - Periodic Water Table With James McDonald    Quotes “Go ask a question, you may not get the answer right away, but if you keep asking, and you keep pursuing, you'll connect the dots, and it will make sense one day. Knowledge is good!” - Bill Kennedy “ELGs are technology-based limits for various effluent streams that would come from an industry, and are one of several criteria that permit writers must consider when they're putting a discharge permit together for that facility. or the steam electric industry.” - Bill Kennedy “Empirical data trumps theory, every time.”- Bill Kennedy “Pay it forward and mentor young professionals in this industry.” - Bill Kennedy “Safety and ethics need to be at the forefront of any mentoring and training for emerging professionals.” - Bill Kennedy   Connect with Bill Kennedy, PE Phone: 980.721.7626 Email: [email protected] Website: www.stantec.com LinkedIn: in/bill-kennedy-pe-063bb623/ company/stantec/ Read or Download Bill Kennedy’s Press Release HERE   Links Mentioned The Hang – January 11, 2024 EPA Effluent Guidelines International Water Conference (IWC) Ep 292 with Scott Wozniak  Ep 339 with Jane Kucera Submit a Show Idea AWT (Association of Water Technologies)   Books Mentioned The Disappearing Spoon: And Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements by Sam Kean Special Forces Berlin: Clandestine Cold War Operations of the US Army's Elite, 1956-1990 by James Stejskal Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey: An American Heritage by Michael R. Veach Mark Twain: The Adventures of Samuel L. Clemens by Jerome Loving   Periodic Water Table With James McDonald What is ACH used for? What is its chemical formula? Does it have a single chemical formula? Would it be classified as organic or inorganic? What impact could it have on sludge production based upon other similar chemicals? What form or forms does it come in? Solid, liquid, or gas? How is ACH used outside of industrial water treatment within the world we live in?   2023 Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE or using the dropdown menu.