Suncor Energy's Commerce City refinery has experienced more than a dozen malfunctions since December, leading to significant air pollution concerns.
Noelle Phillips reports for The Denver Post.
In short:
- Suncor Energy's refinery reported 13 malfunctions since early December, exceeding federal air pollution limits and raising health risks.
- Investigations into these incidents are ongoing, with state regulators scrutinizing the refinery's compliance and operational issues.
- The malfunctions have caused heightened levels of hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide, known for their harmful health impacts.
Key quote:
"It’s the classic ‘mistakes have been made’ vague language."
— Ian Coghill, senior attorney, Earthjustice's Rocky Mountain Office.
Why this matters:
This situation underscores the critical balance between industrial operations and public health. The repeated pollution incidents at Suncor's refinery not only pose immediate health risks but also raise broader concerns about environmental accountability and the effectiveness of regulatory oversight in protecting communities.
Be sure to read our 2012 special report: Pollution, Poverty and People of Color: Communities across the U.S. face environmental injustices.
