EPA Weighs Suggestions to Tackle Goodyear Emissions Issues

Niagara Falls: For months, folks have been pushing state and federal regulators to stop Goodyear from releasing harmful chemicals into the air.

Recently, advocates shared their worries during a meeting with the EPA’s regional head, Lisa Garcia. They were told the agency would consider their suggestions to cut down on ortho-toluidine emissions, a chemical linked to bladder cancer.

Anne Rabe from Don’t Waste New York emphasized that they just want Goodyear to follow the Clean Air Act. Along with other groups, they sent a letter to the EPA outlining their concerns and suggesting six action steps to improve public health in the area.

During the meeting, the EPA agreed to look at three key recommendations. These include requiring Goodyear to install interim emission reduction measures, conduct new testing for more accurate emissions data, and set a timeline for permanent emissions reduction equipment to meet state standards.

Rabe mentioned that they expect an update from the EPA soon. She believes these actions could significantly improve public health.

In September, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation found that ortho-toluidine levels around the plant were much higher than allowed. The state tightened regulations in 2021, reducing the legal limit for emissions from 5,000 pounds to just 100 pounds a year.

Despite being notified of violations, critics argue that the state hasn’t enforced the rules effectively, putting residents’ health at risk. Advocates are calling for the EPA to issue an emergency order to address what they see as a public health crisis.

Support for this emergency order has grown, with backing from the statewide NAACP and 40,000 Sierra Club members in New York. Renae Kimble from the NAACP expressed frustration over the EPA’s slow response, questioning why action hasn’t been taken sooner.

The DEC claims they are working with Goodyear to ensure compliance with emission standards, stating that current limits protect public health. Goodyear insists they are in compliance and are working with the DEC on any necessary changes.

Recently, local Democratic leaders met with state officials to discuss the emissions issue, expressing concern for the community’s health. Niagara Falls City Council Chair Jim Perry, a former Goodyear employee, believes the company is committed to meeting air quality standards and is not currently in favor of an emergency order from the EPA. He feels confident in the company’s efforts to protect workers and the community.