PRTR operation - Data collection, compilation, and storage
PRTR data originate at the facilities that report to a PRTR. Facilities record and submit the data using reporting forms or reporting software. The governing agency or agencies then gather, compile, review, store and disseminate the PRTR data for use by the public. For PRTRs designed to incorporate non-point sources, the governing agency or agencies also estimate, store, and disseminate data on releases and transfers from non-point sources. Each step of this process requires procedures and infrastructure be put in place so that data flow systematically from reporting facilities to the public.
Steps proposed for data collection, compilation, and storage are listed in the left-hand box and include:
- Reporting Software: Developing software that facilities can use to submit data to the PRTR.
- Estimating Releases from Non-point Sources: Identifying and applying estimation techniques to generating release data for non-point sources.
- Data Processing: Developing the process for data to flow from reporters to the database where it is stored.
- Infrastructure and Database: Building the system for storing and retrieving PRTR data.
For a cost-effective management scheme, you may wish to implement the next sub-element (Reporting Software) or choose another element from the Management scheme elements list.
Relevant tools
- OECD: Pollutant Release and Transfer Registers (PRTRs): A Tool for Environmental Policy and Sustainable Development - Guidance Manual for Governments (1996)
- OECD: Guidance on Elements of a PRTR: Part 2 (Not Yet Available)
- UNITAR and IOMC: Designing the Key Features of a National PRTR System, UNITAR Guidance Series for Implementing a National PRTR Design Project, Supplement 2 (1997)
- UNITAR, UNEP, and GEF: Final Meeting of the Steering Committee for the GEF Medium-sized project on “POPs Monitoring, Reporting and Information Dissemination using Pollutant Release and Transfer Registers (PRTRs)” (2012)