Roquette fined $207K for violating the Clean Air Act’s chemical risk prevention provisions
Roquette America Inc. has reached an agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The company, which manufactures corn syrup and starch, allegedly violated the federal Clean Air Act’s chemical risk prevention provisions. The EPA claims that Roquette, which stores over 10,000 pounds of anhydrous ammonia, did not comply with regulations that are designed to protect neighboring communities from potential accidental releases. Following an inspection in March 2022, the EPA discovered multiple Clean Air Act violations at the facility. These violations included failing to conduct safety audits and address hazards and failing to update emergency contact information.
To resolve the alleged violation, Roquette will pay a $207,488 civil penalty and $122,000 to buy two pickup trucks and outfit them as emergency response vehicles for the Keokuk Fire Department.
What people are saying
In a recent quote, EPA Region 7 Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division Director David Cozad said, “It is critical that companies that handle dangerous chemicals like anhydrous ammonia comply with the safety requirements of the Clean Air Act. EPA is committed to protecting communities from potentially catastrophic chemical releases, particularly those communities disproportionately affected by environmental harm.”
EPA in the news
Venoil to pay $58K for violating the Clean Water Act
Venoil was not properly testing or inspecting its tanks and facilities for leaks and spills.
Energy company to pay $231K for hazardous waste violations at South Carolina facility
EPA noted several potential violations of state and federal hazardous waste laws relating to the management of hazardous waste in containers and tanks.
Recycler to pay $236K for hazardous waste violations and $642K to reduce organic air emissions
At GRR’s facility in Attalla, Alabama, the company blends hazardous waste for use as fuel in boilers and industrial furnaces.
Manufacturers violating the Clean Air Act
Intalco Aluminum fined $5.25 million for releasing hazardous pollutants into the air
The company failed to maintain and operate air pollution control systems at various times from 2017 to 2020.
Marathon to pay $64.5 million, the largest penalty ever for violations of the Clean Air Act
The company settled with the EPA and DOJ and agreed to implement compliance measures to reduce harmful emissions.
Electronic Products fined $118K for violating two environmental laws
Electronic Products failed to identify hazards related to its use of anhydrous ammonia at its facility.