The Denka Performance Elastomer plant in Louisiana’s “Cancer Alley” has halted production indefinitely due to financial difficulties, citing regulatory challenges and a slowdown in global market demand for its synthetic rubber product, neoprene. The plant, known for chronic air pollution issues, has been a focal point of environmental justice concerns in surrounding Black communities. The Biden administration’s interventions, including new emissions regulations and a lawsuit to reduce pollution, contrast with the Trump administration’s rollback attempts. Denka’s financial losses, amounting to $109 million, are attributed to decreased demand and regulatory uncertainty under the current administration.
The plant’s former owner, DuPont, sold the facility to Denka in 2015 amid concerns about environmental regulations, raising questions about transparency and responsibility. Denka has invested in pollution control technology since the purchase, claiming significant reductions in chloroprene emissions. However, EPA data indicates ongoing high chloroprene levels, exceeding federal exposure guidelines.
Local residents, who have long battled the plant’s pollution, cautiously welcomed the production suspension but expressed concerns about potential future ownership and regulatory compliance. Mary Hampton of Boundless Community Action highlighted skepticism about the plant’s intentions and urged vigilance against a possible sale to another operator with similar practices. The community remains vigilant in advocating for clean air and environmental justice in the face of industrial pollution threats.
