Residents near Shell's ethane cracker plant in Pennsylvania say pollution and economic letdowns have overshadowed the promised benefits of the facility.
Dharna Noor reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- The Shell plastics plant, which processes fracked gas into plastic, has faced 33 violations for air and water pollution since 2017.
- Locals report respiratory issues, foul odors and water concerns while promised economic benefits have fallen short, with the plant employing only 500 full-time workers.
- Critics accuse Shell of overstating benefits and using community donations to downplay the plant's environmental impact.
Key quote:
“I have to live in a cocoon year-round.”
— Nadine Luci, local resident
Why this matters:
The facility's emissions threaten both public health and the Ohio River watershed, affecting millions. Despite promises of economic growth, the project delivers limited jobs and raises concerns about pollution’s long-term effects on local communities.
Related EHN coverage:
- After repeated air pollution violations, Shell plastics plant hit with federal lawsuit
- The Titans of Plastic
- Shell’s petrochemical plant in Pennsylvania hasn’t spurred economic growth: Report
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