An investigation into the use of tallow as a thermal fuel in Ireland

Abstract

The study investigates the use of tallow as a thermal fuel in Ireland, focusing on its suitability as a fuel in steam raising boilers. The legislative position of such use with regard to the protection of health is discussed under the requirements of the Animal By- Products Regulations. The protection of the environment is discussed in respect of the applicability of waste legislation, the emissions trading scheme and emission of air pollutants. The quantity of tallow available for use as a thermal fuel is determined and the practical application of the Animal By-Products Regulations at plant level is described. This is further enhanced by a case study of a plant already using tallow as a thermal fuel. The attitude of industry toward fuel usage and particularly tallow is investigated by means of a survey of IPPC licensed facilities in the Food and Drink industry. Findings show that the Animal By-Product Regulations is competent in providing the protection necessary for health and that the applicability of waste legislation to the combustion of tallow is likely to end because of a review of the Animal By-Products Regulations. Tallow was found to be a cleaner fuel than mineral oils with the exceptions of particulates and carbon monoxide, but these still within the emission limit values of air quality standards. In conclusion, the study found that tallow is more sustainable than fossil fuel and some renewable fuels. As cost was the primary consideration in fuel choice for the respondents of the survey, the suitability of tallow as a thermal fuel is restricted for economic reasons to those companies using mineral fuel oils and particularly those with Greenhouse Gas permits, due to its zero carbon rating.