For surface treatment processes of metals and plastics by electrolytic and chemical processes using solvents, the Integrated Pollution, Prevention and Control (IPPC) Directive 96/61/EC applies. Industrial production processes account for a considerable share of overall pollution in Europe (for emissions of greenhouse gases and acidifying substances, wastewater emissions and waste). The EU has established a set of common rules for permitting and controlling industrial installations in this IPPC Directive. In essence, the IPPC Directive is about minimising pollution from various industrial sources throughout the European Union. Operators of industrial installations covered by Annex I of the IPPC Directive are required to obtain authorisation (an environmental permit) from.
