ANC Environmental Practises

Continual optimization of our effluent treatment system has minimized the impact of our discharge on the Athabasca River. New online nutrient probes and on line respirometry interfacing with our computer model provides enhanced process control. ANC continually discharges less than 1/10 of it's allowable limits for Biochemical Oxygen Demand and Total Suspended Solids. This further protects fish habitat.

ANC does more than plant trees!

We are often asked about our environmental commitment. Below are some specific examples of ANC’s environmental integrity

We have never been in violation of our fish toxicity tests. ANC represents the "best newsprint mill technology" in Canada for effluent treatment as reported by the Canadian Pulp and Paper Association.

Biological solids from our effluent system are being used to enhance crop and tree growth. Composting studies using our biosolids combined with hydrocarbon contaminated soils from oilwell sites have provided soil remediation for oil companies. Direct spreading of ANC’s biosolids on agricultural and forest lands has had dramatic positive impacts on vegetation growth. Direct composting of the biosolids has resulted in high quality greenhouse potting soils (see the enclosed inserts).

ANC conducts benthic invertebrate (insect) population surveys and fish health surveys on the Athabasca River. To date ANC effluent has provided localized nutrient enrichment increasing benthic populations while maintaining species diversity. This promotes fish habitat by supplying additional food for the fish.

ANC Chip Pile (local sawmill by-product residuals serve as 95% of our fiber furnish)

The pulping process at ANC uses the sawmill by-product residuals

ANC has also been working with local sawmills to utilize their burnt wood residuals from the May 1998 fires that occurred in our area. Alberta Research Council is working with us on the development of an on line camera to measure carbon content, bark, and stain levels for chip blending. They are also working on tree species identification technology (on line) to aid refining process control. Brightness optimization projects are in full swing utilizing on line sensors for chip blending and chemical brightner controls.

Consideration of ecological values is fundamental to all forest harvest plans. Minimal impact of river crossings, river buffer zones (areas left with tree vegetation), wildlife & habitat protection (when & where conducting operations), fish studies, and cooperation with Alberta Environmental Protection all promote our ecological friendliness.

In 1998 ANC became the first forest products company in the province to win the prestigious Emerald Environmental Award. Our employees, suppliers, and customers are extremely proud of this achievement.