(87b) Using Integrated Controls and Real-Time Weather Forecasting to Drive Zero Discharge

New technologies are needed to better manage our environmental and industrial infrastructure.  One emerging technology couples real-time monitoring with advanced cloud computing tools to create “smart” infrastructure such as cisterns, environmental remediation systems, and dust suppression systems that use weather forecasts and other predictive tools.  The result is an integrated approach to driving zero discharge at facilities that are under increasing pressure to better manage water use, treatment, and discharge.  A recent example project included the integration of a real-time weather forecasting control system into a rainwater harvesting system currently being constructed at the CSX Curtis Bay Piers.  The real-time weather forecasting control system improves on-site capture and use of storm and gray waters at the facility and although the primary objective of the project was to help the Piers achieve its zero discharge goals, the system also improves the efficiency of on-site water usage for coal dust suppression and will substantially reduce the use of potable water at the facility. The system, designed and installed by Geosyntec Consultants, interfaces with the current dust suppression system (DSS) used at the site, and contains automated control components as well as indicators to advise manual control of the DSS based on forecasted meteorological conditions.

Better management of environmental infrastructure has numerous benefits.  The cost of water, which is often perceived as a relatively inexpensive resource, increases considerably when accounting for the tangible costs related to environmental compliance, treatment, and discharge.  Water costs increase even more when accounting for the intangible costs related to regulatory scrutiny, negative public perception, and increased risk of lawsuits.  This presentation will use the Curtis Bay Piers case study to illustrate the benefits of integrated infrastructure.  Additional applications and benefits will also be summarized.