# DuPont fined $531,000 for alleged Clean Air Act violations

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/02/dupont-fined-531000-for-alleged-clean-air-act-violations/
- Published: 2015-02-08T02:16:01-05:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

(New York, N.Y. – Jan. 8, 2015) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
announced today that E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Company (DuPont), a prominent player
in the chemical industry, has been fined $531,000 for alleged Clean Air Act violations
at its chemical manufacturing plant in Deepwater, New Jersey. This fine comes as
part of the EPA’s ongoing efforts to enforce environmental regulations and ensure
that companies adhere to standards designed to protect air quality. The agency conducted
a thorough investigation into the practices at the Deepwater facility. They uncovered
potential threats to public health and the environment arising from non-compliance
with federal air quality regulations. With this action, the EPA aims to hold DuPont
accountable. Moreover, they wish to send a strong message about the importance of
maintaining safe air quality for surrounding communities and the environment at 
large.

### EPA Fined DuPont

The EPA fined DuPont for improper maintenance and repair of two large refrigeration
units. When properly maintained, the systems are designed to minimize chlorofluorocarbons(
CFCs) from leaking into the environment. CFCs [damage the ozone](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/03/understanding-the-environmental-damage-from-fireworks/)
layer, which shields the earth from harmful radiation that contributes to increased
skin cancer.

The company also fails to accurately submit [reports to EPA](https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/09/nbc-reports-bees-will-be-used-to-deliver-a-new-organic-pesticide-but-will-it-save-them/)
under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act. This act serves as
a critical piece of legislation designed to enhance community awareness and preparedness
regarding potential chemical hazards. This oversight signifies a disregard for regulatory
compliance and raises concerns about the implications for public safety and environmental
health. Accurate reporting informs local communities about the presence and risks
of hazardous substances. Such failures undermine trust between the company and the
communities it operates within, further complicating efforts to address environmental
issues effectively.

![Dupont industrial facility with smokestacks emitting steam and pollution featuring
the company logo prominently in the foreground](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.
com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/create-a-highly-detailed-high-resolution-image-illustrating-
the-theme-of-400x300.png?resize=400%2C300&ssl=1 "create-a-highly-detailed-high-resolution-
image-illustrating-the-theme-of - The Green Living Guy")

### DuPont Emitted CFCs

> “CFCs deplete the ozone layer, clearly linking this destruction to an increase
> in skin cancer cases,” says Judith A. Enck, EPA Regional Administrator. “As the
> ozone layer thins, more harmful ultraviolet rays reach the Earth’s surface, putting
> people’s [health](https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/02/fishing-advisory-health-risks-in-texas-waters/)
> at risk. This growing concern highlights the urgent need for regulatory measures
> and public awareness about substances that contribute to ozone depletion. With
> each passing year, the threats posed by increased UV exposure become more apparent,
> resulting not only in skin cancer but also in other serious health issues such
> as cataracts and weakened immune systems. We must act swiftly and collaboratively
> to protect our environment and, consequently, our health by reducing reliance 
> on these harmful chemicals.”

The 1,455-acre DuPont Chambers Works Complex sits along the eastern shore of the
Delaware [River](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/07/epa-provides-grant-to-nyc-parks-to-boost-citizen-science-in-city-parks-along-the-bronx-and-harlem-rivers/)
in Deepwater, New Jersey. Furthermore, the [site initiates industrial](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/02/epa-directs-nl-industries-to-remove-lead-at-raritan-bay-superfund-site-in-old-bridge-and-sayreville-new-jersey/)
activities in 1892, which marks a significant milestone in the region’s industrial
development. Since then, it has not only manufactured dyes, freon, tetraethyl lead,
and chemicals, but also, notably, played a crucial role in the evolution of various
synthetic materials. These materials are, in fact, integral to today’s economy. 
Moreover, the two large refrigeration units operate with a capacity of 3,000 pounds
of CFCs. This capacity is essential for ensuring, in addition, optimal performance
and safety in the manufacturing processes. Consequently, the units serve the [company’s chemical manufacturing](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/02/ford-energy-got-cuts-of-more-than-22-trillion-btu/)
process, which has continually evolved. In particular, they meet both market demands
and environmental regulations, thus showcasing the complex’s commitment to innovation
and sustainability in the chemical industry.

![Industrial facility with several tall smokestacks and large structures under a
cloudy sky](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/image-
12-400x300.png?resize=400%2C300&ssl=1 "image - The Green Living Guy")

### Fixing Leak Detection

In addition to paying $531,000, DuPont took significant steps to correct the ongoing
issues in its leak detection program. This demonstrates a commitment to improving
safety and compliance. The company not only addressed the immediate concerns but
also implemented new protocols and technologies. These enhancements were to improve
the reliability of their leak detection processes. They will [comply with reporting requirements](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/01/insulation-levels-in-reroofing-projects-to-comply-with-requirements-for-new-construction/),
as the law requires. This ensures that all necessary data is accurately reported.
Moreover, it is made available to the relevant authorities. This proactive approach
signifies DuPont’s dedication to environmental responsibility and regulatory adherence.
Ultimately, it fosters a safer workplace and reinforces their reputation as a leader
in sustainable practices.

### 30 Public Comment for DuPont Settlement

The proposed settlement is lodged with the United [States District Court](https://greenlivingguy.com/2018/03/state-land-trusts-urge-courts-to-deny-penneast-pipeline-eminent-domain-overreach-says-nj-conservation/)
for the State of New Jersey. This significant legal milestone now enters a 30-day
public comment period, allowing community members, stakeholders, and concerned citizens
to voice their opinions and insights regarding the settlement.

Individuals must actively participate in this process. Their feedback profoundly
influences the Court’s final decision on the matter. It shapes the future of local
environmental policies and land use practices. Engaging in this dialogue empowers
residents and fosters a sense of community involvement in crucial legal matters.
Residents can submit comments either by e-mail or by mail, ensuring that various
methods of communication accommodate different preferences. This approach promotes
broad participation from the public. Additionally, organizers may hold public meetings
and informational sessions during this period, further educating citizens about 
the implications of the settlement and encouraging open discussions among all stakeholders.

pubcomment-ees.enrd@usdoj.gov

Assistant Attorney General
U.S. DOJ – ENRDP.O. Box 7611Washington, D.C. 20044-7611

During the public comment period, which serves as a vital opportunity for community
engagement, the Consent Decree undergoes thorough examination and is conveniently
available for download at this Justice Department website: [http://www.usdoj.gov/enrd/Consent_Decrees.html](https://www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees).
This allowance for public scrutiny ensures transparency in the legal processes. 
It also encourages informed feedback from citizens, helping to shape the outcomes
of important legal agreements. Stakeholders and interested parties actively review
the document and share their insights and opinions during this designated time frame.

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
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