EPA reaches agreement with Ashland Inc

Aug. 19, 2006
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reached an agreement with Ashland Inc on alleged clean-air violations at the company's resin manufacturing plant at 142nd Street and Paxton Avenue, Calumet City IL, according to EPA information.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reached an agreement with Ashland Inc on alleged clean-air violations at the company's resin manufacturing plant at 142nd Street and Paxton Avenue, Calumet City IL, according to EPA information.

The agreement, which includes a $60,000 penalty and an environmental project costing $154,400, resolves EPA allegations that Ashland failed to comply with national emissions standards for hazardous air pollutants and the facility's state operating permit, EPA said.

The plant produces amino/phenolic resins that can be used to make plywood, particle board, adhesives, wood furniture, and plastic parts. A number of hazardous air pollutants are used in the manufacturing process, according to EPA.

For its environmental project, Ashland will install and maintain sealless pumps and operate them for at least five years. The pumps are designed to prevent leaks, EPA said.