We provide Engineering and Consultancy
Services in the following areas:
Environmental and Social Impact Assessments
Project Management
Permit and Licence Applications for Developments and Enterprises
Indoor Air Quality Assessments (IAQAs)
Environmental Engineering
and Engineering Management
Under the Natural Resources Conservation Authority (NRCA) Act and Associated Regulations, the Jamaican environmental regulator, namely the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) require permits and licences for new developments or activities that may impact the environment. EEM supports clients by preparing the technical documentation needed for the successful processing of the permit and licence applications. The team ensures all submissions meet regulatory requirements.
Please see link to NEPA’s categories of development and enterprise that require permits and licences.
https://www.nepa.gov.jm/permits
https://www.nepa.gov.jm/index.php/licences
We prepare comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs) to evaluate the potential environmental and social effects of proposed developments before they begin. Our ESIA services include data collection, consulting with local communities and experts and risk analysis, to ensure your project meets regulatory requirements and aligns with environmental best practices. The data collection includes field assessments for flora and fauna as deemed necessary.
By identifying and addressing potential social and environmental impacts at the conceptual or design phase, informed decisions can be made to implement effective strategies to avoid, minimise or mitigate negative environmental and social impacts.
A Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) is also referred to as an Initial Environmental Assessment (IEA). This is usually a shorter and less detailed assessment, utilizing desk studies and readily available data, which is used to assist project proponents get a firm understanding of the potential negative environmental and social impacts of their proposed project and also, to understand the regulatory requirements related to the project.
This type of assessment is usually done at the project feasibility stage. If the project is deemed by the project proponent to be feasible, the output from this assessment can be used as the basis or starting point for the full ESIA if one is required.
Legal compliance audits focus on evaluating compliance with national and international legislation, standards and best practices. The process is similar to that of conducting Environmental Audits with the objective of providing clear and comprehensive reports with recommendations to address gaps that are identified.
EEM prepares detailed Air Emissions Inventories to assist organisations in determining whether the types and loading of pollutants generated by the operations require an Air Pollutant Discharge Licence (APDL) from the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) in accordance with the Natural Resources Conservation Authority, Air Quality Regulations, 2006. EEM collects and analyses data from sources such as power plants and factories and categorises emissions by type and origin. Using industry-standard methodologies and regulatory guidelines, accurate, actionable inventories are prepared that support compliance, and which are crucial for air quality management and guides environmental policy decisions.
Air Dispersion Models (ADMs) are conducted by EEM to simulate how air pollutants from stack emissions and fugitive emissions disperse from power plants and factories into the surrounding environment. Once the Air Emission Inventory (AEI) determines that an Air Pollution Discharge Licence (APDL) is required, the Air Dispersion Model is conducted using advanced modelling software and regulatory-approved methods, emissions data, meteorological data conditions, and terrain information to estimate pollutant concentrations at various distances and elevations from the facility. The Air Dispersion Model (ADM) is used by NEPA to establish the Air Pollutant Discharge licencing conditions and fees.
EEM supports organisations in implementing the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System (EMS) standard through a structured process that establishes, documents, and maintains an effective EMS. This includes developing an environmental policy, identifying environmental aspects and impacts and compliance obligations, setting objectives and targets, and establishing operational controls. EEM may provide ongoing support as needed, including regular monitoring, internal audits, and management reviews to ensure the EMS remains suitable, current, effective, and aligned with your environmental performance goals.
A company can assess how efficiently it utilises its water resources and identify opportunities for conservation and improved waste management by conducting a water balance. EEM provides this service to help companies achieve more effective and efficient water management within their facility which ultimately should lead to a reduction in water consumption and by extension, wastewater generated.
A GHG inventory is a detailed accounting of heat-trapping gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄), that are emitted or removed from the atmosphere due to human activities over a specific period. This data is essential for tracking emissions, setting reduction targets, and supporting climate action strategies. EEM provides this service to assist companies in determining their carbon footprint.
EEM provides professional Noise Assessments to evaluate existing or potential noise levels in various environments. Using a precision digital noise meter, data is collected and analysed on noise sources, frequency, and amplitude. The assessments help identify environmental and health risks and ensures regulatory compliance. The output from each assessment includes a detailed report with findings and practical recommendations for managing or reducing noise impacts.
Indoor Air Quality Assessments (IAQAs) are focused on ensuring that the air inside buildings and workspaces is healthy and comfortable for the occupants. The IAQA conducted includes facility inspection and testing of key air quality indicators such as comfort parameters (Carbon Monoxide, Carbon Dioxide, Temperature, and Relative Humidity), Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5), Mould Spores through mould counts and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Based on the results, strategies are recommended to improve the indoor air quality.
To request this service please fill out the form at the bottom of this page.
Environmental Assessments are conducted based on the requirements of regulators such as the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) and the Water Resources Authority (WRA) or for our Client’s own planning purposes. These types of assessment include terrestrial ecological assessments and freshwater and riverine ecological assessments. Depending on the objective of the study, soil and water sampling may also be included to provide current data on these resources in the area of interest.
Environmental Audits are usually conducted at existing facilities and evaluate compliance with environmental regulations, environmental best practices and other company mandated requirements. The audits also identify gaps in the facility’s environmental management system. Where no formal Environmental Management System (EMS) exists, these audits are usually guided by the principles of the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System requirements. If a company is certified to the ISO 14001 EMS standard, the EEM Team is trained and qualified to provide internal EMS Audits in accordance with the standard.
Our process includes site inspections, document reviews, staff interviews, preparation of comprehensive reports with recommendations towards effective corrective actions to improve environmental compliance and enhance efficiency and overall performance.
Conditions in permits and licences issued by the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) require the permittee/licensee to prepare and submit various operational management plans. The objective is for the permitted activity/development to have systems in place to minimise or eliminate potential adverse environmental impacts and provide a framework for improved operational efficiency. The range of plans include but is not limited to: Emergency Preparedness and Response Plans, Waste Management Plans, Spill Management Plans, Closure Plans, Operation, Maintenance and Contingency Plans, Water Quality Monitoring Plans and Compliance Plans.
EEM assists its clients in the development of these management plans which are tailored to meet regulatory expectations and support ongoing compliance for business operations.
Wastewater characterisation involves analysing the physical, chemical, and biological components of wastewater to determine its composition and key properties. The process includes identifying the source of each waste stream and mapping their movement though the facility’s operations towards the final point of discharge or treatment. The sampling of effluent streams is conducted in a way to reflect the true operations of the company so that realistic results are obtained. This assessment is essential for identifying opportunities for waste reduction as well as designing effective treatment processes and ensuring regulatory compliance.
EEM develops environmental policies for government agencies both locally and regionally that address environmental challenges. Our services include policy research, stakeholder engagement, regulatory analysis, and the drafting of environmental policies and frameworks. These policies aim to promote sustainable development, protect natural resources, mitigate pollution, and support long-term environmental health goals. EEM has led the development of several national policies.
EEM conducts carrying capacity studies to assess the maximum level of activity or population an environment can sustain without negative impacts.
EEM provides environmental monitoring services to ensure post permit/licence compliance with NEPA’s permit and licence conditions. The team will provide guidance throughout the construction phase to assist the permittee/licensee in navigating the requirements of the legal instruments issued and to advise how to treat with non-compliances that may arise. The services include the preparation of monitoring reports with recommendations and liaison with regulators as required.
We offer professional project management services with a focus on technical expertise, strategic oversight, and efficient delivery. As trusted lead consultants, we have successfully guided projects from concept through to execution, leading multidisciplinary teams of consultants and coordinating across diverse stakeholders. We are committed to achieving outcomes that align with our clients’ budget and schedule expectations while delivering each project to its specifications and standards.
How to get an Indoor Air Quality Assessment
To request an Indoor Air Quality Assessment, please complete this questionnaire as this will assist us in evaluating your concerns.
Responses to the questionnaire will determine whether a preliminary site visit is required to further evaluate the scope of work and prepare a quotation.
Preliminary site visits in the Kingston and St. Andrew area are conducted at no cost, while mileage at $110/km will be charged for out-of-town visits. If the preliminary site visit requires an overnight stay at a location, charges for accommodation and per diem will apply in addition to the mileage.
If the quotation is accepted, the Indoor Air Quality Assessment will be scheduled at a time convenient for you. Following the assessment, a detailed report will be provided, highlighting the issues identified and offering recommendations to improve the indoor air quality in your workspace or facility.