U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited Smurfit-Stone Flexible Packaging for alleged violations of federal and state clean-air regulations at the company's printing plant in Schaumburg, Ill.
EPA alleges Smurfit failed to comply with national emissions standards for methyl ethyl ketone, a hazardous air pollutant and a volatile organic compound, and to do timely testing and reporting required by EPA. In addition, the company failed to comply with conditions of a state permit, and it released more VOCs than state regulations allow.
These are preliminary findings of violations. To resolve them, EPA may issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty or bring suit against the company.
Smurfit has 30 days from receipt of the notice to request a meeting with EPA to discuss the allegations and how to resolve them.
"EPA's mission is to protect public health and the environment," said Region 5 Administrator Thomas V. Skinner. "We will take whatever steps are needed to ensure compliance with the Clean Air Act."
Short-term exposure to high concentrations of methyl ethyl ketone can irritate the eyes, nose and throat and cause headache, nausea, central nervous system depression and skin problems. Limited information is available on the chronic effects of methyl ethyl ketone in humans from inhalation exposure.Latest from Recycling Today
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