GASP Speaks Out Against EPA Plan to Delay Implementation of Coke Oven NESHAPs

The Group Against Smog and Pollution (GASP) on Thursday testified at a public hearing hosted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - speaking out against a plan to delay full implementation of the revised National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAPs) for Integrated Iron and Steel making facilities.  

Here's what you need to know about the EPA proposal, which would (among other things) allow U.S. Steel’s Edgar Thomson Works to emit greater amounts of hazardous air pollutants between now and July 3, 2027, than it otherwise would have. 

You can get the skinny on the proposal here.

Here's what GASP Executive Director Patrick Campbell told the EPA:

Good morning. I’m Patrick Campbell, executive director of the Group Against Smog and Pollution, or GASP, a nonprofit working to improve air quality in western Pennsylvania since 1969.

I am here today to share the Group Against Smog & Pollution’s opposition to EPA’s decision to delay the full implementation of the revised National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Coke Ovens and Coke Oven Batteries.

This rollback directly impacts the health and safety of frontline communities in our region, specifically those living in the shadow of U.S. Steel’s Clairton Coke Works and Cleveland Cliffs’ Monessen Coke Works.

First, we are particularly concerned with proposed delays regarding the installation of fence line monitors to detect benzene levels—a known carcinogen and problem pollutant in our area.

Second, GASP is specifically opposed to the delay in implementing new limits on leaking coke oven doors, lids, and piping. This delay will disproportionately impact residents in our region who are already overburdened by emissions from industrial polluters like U.S. Steel’s Mon Valley Works - facilities with well-documented and longstanding issues with leaking coke oven doors and lids.

Third, we want to share our disappointment that EPA’s only justification for these delays is industry assertions about the time needed for facility modifications.

However, the Coke Oven NESHAPS do not present new or unforeseen challenges.

Industry groups have consistently sought to delay compliance with clean air regulations, and by accepting their arguments, the EPA undermines the very purpose of establishing protective emission standards in the first place.

The EPA has stated that this delay would provide industry with a savings of $4.2 to $4.4 million. Yet, the agency charged with protecting our environment has failed to provide an estimate of the additional pollution that will foul our air as a direct result of this rollback.

This egregious omission and lack of transparency regarding the public health cost is simply unacceptable. GASP urges the EPA to prioritize public health over vague industry assertions.

We demand EPA enforce the original compliance deadlines. The health of our communities cannot wait.