A federal court ruling has temporarily blocked the EPA's efforts to enforce stricter air pollution regulations at a synthetic rubber plant in Louisiana’s "Cancer Alley," delaying compliance until mid-2026.
Sean Reilly reports for E&E News.
In short:
- The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has stayed the EPA's order requiring Denka Performance Elastomer to reduce chloroprene emissions by October, now extended to mid-2026.
- Denka claims the October deadline could force the plant to shut down, arguing for the necessity of the extension for its operations and employees.
- The EPA is reviewing the court’s decision, which contradicts a prior ruling by the D.C. Circuit Court and affects President Biden's pollution reduction campaign.
Why this matters:
Chloroprene is considered a likely carcinogen by the EPA. The delay in enforcing stricter emissions limits prolongs potential health risks for residents of "Cancer Alley," an area already facing high pollution levels.
