The following is a letter from Ron Schroder, the Director of Marketing at Briess Malt and Ingredients, regarding our recent story on an air quality exception granted by the DNR.
It is correct that the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has provided an exemption “for a research and testing construction permit regarding the proposed
construction, operation, and testing of a thermal oxidizer for control of VOC emissions from the malt roasting process at Briess’ plant in Manitowoc”.
This exemption allows the company to continue evaluating and testing equipment and processes that have been in development for more than a year. The exemption does not allow an increase in emissions; it simply allows the company to conduct testing. This testing is necessary to validate performance and effectiveness before full implementation of a solution.
The objective for the equipment and processes is further long-term reduction of emissions, odors, and VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) that are generated during certain malt roasting processes. These improvements are in addition to millions of dollars that have already been invested during
the past ten years to improve the safety and environmental performance of the plant.
Briess is proud to be part of the Manitowoc community, where our team members live and work. Our goal has always been, and will continue to be, to operate in a manner that reflects our respect for the environment and responsibility to the community. Based on these values, we are constantly evaluating ways to improve our operations and outcomes. Pending successful results of this testing, the thermal oxidizer solution will be fully implemented later this year.
