“Biden Administration Delivers Relief, But Chemical Industry Pushes Back: Will Progress Be Lost?”

The fight for cleaner air in communities like Reserve, Louisiana, is facing a new challenge as chemical industry groups seek exemptions from the Biden administration’s rule to reduce hazardous air pollutants from petrochemical plants. Robert Taylor, a resident of Reserve and advocate for stronger limits on toxic chemicals, is concerned that the hard-won progress will be undone.

The chemical industry groups, including the American Chemistry Council and American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers, have requested a two-year exemption for facilities covered by the regulation. They argue that compliance with the rule would cost $50 billion, far exceeding the $1.8 billion estimated by the EPA when the rule was issued last year.

The rule in question aims to limit releases of hazardous pollutants such as chloroprene, ethylene oxide, and benzene, which are known to cause cancer and other illnesses. The EPA stated that the rule would reduce the number of people with elevated cancer risks from air toxics emissions and benefit vulnerable populations, particularly children.

Communities in Louisiana, known as “Cancer Alley,” already face high levels of toxic pollutants, with ethylene oxide levels up to 1,000 times higher than deemed acceptable by the EPA. These communities, which are predominantly made up of people of color, are at risk of further exposure if exemptions are granted.

Environmental groups have identified over 500 industrial operations that could be subject to presidential exemptions across various industries, with Texas and Louisiana having the highest numbers of plants. The potential exemptions could have far-reaching consequences for communities already grappling with toxic pollution.

Residents like Robert Taylor are determined to push back against the exemptions and continue fighting for cleaner air and environmental justice. The EPA’s reconsideration of regulations and the possibility of exemptions have raised concerns about the prioritization of industry profits over public health and environmental protection.

As the debate continues, the fate of these regulations and the health of communities like Reserve hang in the balance. The fight for cleaner air and environmental justice remains a critical issue for advocates, residents, and policymakers alike.