Ash Grove Cement applied to remove a restriction that currently limits its use of tire-derived fuel to 30% of its energy mix at its Seattle plant, reported local media. The request has alarmed local residents, who say the proposal risks adding more pollution to the area.
The Duwamish River Community Coalition, which is leading the opposition, said it fears higher levels of nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, and toxic compounds such as dioxins and mercury. However, Ash Grove said that its use of tires has reduced reliance on fossil fuels without raising emissions.
The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, which oversees air quality in the region, is still reviewing the application. “All public comments, including those submitted by community organizations, will be considered as part of that process,” the agency said in a statement.
