A petrochemical plant in Louisiana has paused its operations, a move that comes amid concerns about pollution and health risks for the local community. The Denka facility, which produces synthetic rubber, announced the suspension on Tuesday, citing high costs associated with reducing toxic emissions. This decision follows significant financial losses, with the company reporting a loss of over $109 million in the past year.
Denka, a Japanese firm, has faced scrutiny for its emissions of chloroprene, a chemical linked to cancer. The plant is located in St. John the Baptist Parish, about 30 miles northwest of New Orleans, in an area often referred to as "Cancer Alley" due to the high levels of pollution and health risks faced by the predominantly Black community nearby. Activists have long accused the plant of contributing to increased cancer risks among residents.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been involved, pushing for stricter emissions controls at Denka and other facilities. This effort intensified under the Biden administration, which highlighted the plant’s pollution as part of its environmental justice campaign. Last year, the EPA had to withdraw a federal lawsuit against Denka that alleged it posed an unacceptable cancer risk to the community, a move that drew criticism.
Denka cited several challenges for its decision to suspend operations, including declining demand for its products, staffing shortages, and rising operational costs. The company also mentioned that it did not anticipate the substantial expenses required for pollution control equipment when it purchased the facility from DuPont in 2015.
Despite spending over $35 million on emission reduction efforts since 2017, Denka’s emissions have consistently exceeded federal guidelines. The company expressed gratitude to Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry for his support during its struggles with regulatory measures, although it remains uncertain about the future of the facility.
Local activists welcomed the news of the plant’s suspension but remain cautious. Tish Taylor, a community activist, expressed relief at the reduction of chloroprene in the air but emphasized that the petrochemical industry often prioritizes profit over community health. Robert Taylor, another activist, urged vigilance, noting that past regulatory rollbacks under the Trump administration have left communities vulnerable.
Denka’s operations have been affected by a broader slowdown in global demand for chloroprene, along with rising energy prices and supply chain issues. Analysts have pointed out that the cost of chlorine, a key ingredient in chloroprene production, has surged, further complicating the plant’s economic viability.
As Denka explores options, including a potential sale of the business, the community remains on alert. Activists are preparing to continue their fight for cleaner air and a safer environment, determined to hold the company accountable for its impact on local health and well-being.