THE CRITICAL ROLE OF METROLOGY IN ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Environmental management plays a crucial role in safeguarding human health, preserving ecosystems, and promoting sustainable development.

- Eng. NPT PERERA - M00786 MEMBER OF IEPSL PRINCIPAL RESEARCH ENGINEER NATIONAL ENGINEERING RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT CENTRE OF SRI LANKA

With increasing industrialization and urbanization, environmental pollution has emerged as a significant global challenge. To mitigate environmental degradation, regulatory bodies such as the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) have established stringent standards for pollution control. Compliance with these standards necessitates precise and reliable environmental measurements, underscoring the importance of metrology—the science of measurement.

Accurate environmental measurements are essential for monitoring pollution levels, enforcing regulations, and ensuring sustainable industrial operations. These measurements encompass various environmental parameters, including noise levels, air quality, stationary source emissions, and wastewater discharges. However, the reliability of these measurements depends on multiple factors, such as the accuracy of instruments, the competence of personnel, and adherence to internationally recognized standards. This article explores the significance of metrology in environmental management, its role in ensuring global trade compliance, and the necessity of ISO 17025:2017 accreditation for environmental laboratories.

What is the role of metrology in environmental management?

Metrology is the foundation of all scientific and industrial measurements, providing a basis for consistency, accuracy, and comparability. In the context of environmental management, precise measurements are indispensable for assessing pollution levels and implementing effective mitigation strategies. The significance of metrology in environmental monitoring can be categorized into the following aspects:

Ensuring Accurate Pollution Assessments