Monday, January 16, 2012

50 tons of propylene released in the air

By: Duane Craig

The county alleges that Exxon released 50 tons of propylene into the air between April 12 and June 2 but didn’t report the event until June 9. Polypropylene reacts with sunlight to create ground-level ozone. The county says it needs the information about emissions releases quickly so it can notify residents if there is a need to evacuate or take shelter.

Some residents have complained of a rotten egg odor coming from Exxon Mobil’s facility that has forced them to go indoors. The county attorney says that when incidents such as that happen, the business is in violation of state code because the smell alters residents’ use of their property. The county is also seeking a monetary penalty up to $1 million.

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