A Louisiana chemical plant has warned it will shut down permanently if not given more time to meet an EPA emissions reduction deadline.
Michael Phillis reports for The Associated Press.
In short:
- Denka Performance Elastomer, a neoprene manufacturer, is fighting a 90-day EPA deadline to cut emissions, arguing it needs at least two years to comply.
- The plant, located near a majority-Black community, has been accused of increasing cancer risks, leading to the stricter EPA rule.
- Environmental activists and local residents support the closure, citing long-term health risks.
Key quote:
"Let them shut down. They poisoned the people in Reserve."
— Sharon Lavigne, founder of Rise St. James
Why this matters:
The EPA's demand stems from increasing evidence linking neoprene production to harmful air pollutants, which have been associated with serious health risks in nearby communities. Residents have long complained about elevated cancer rates and respiratory issues, raising the stakes for swift regulatory action. Denka’s pushback could set a precedent for how swiftly environmental regulations are enforced in similar cases.
