Trump Administration’s Decision to Drop Lawsuit Against Denka Performance Elastomers Faces Backlash

The recent decision by the Trump administration to drop a significant lawsuit against the Denka Performance Elastomers plant in St. John the Baptist Parish, Louisiana, has stirred both political and community reactions. The lawsuit, initiated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), accused the plant of contributing to significantly increased cancer risks due to its emissions of chloroprene, a likely carcinogen. Let’s delve into the complexities of this development and the implications it holds for the affected community and stakeholders.

The Lawsuit Against Denka: A Recap

In 2023, under the leadership of President Joe Biden, the EPA filed a lawsuit against Denka Performance Elastomers. The facility, located in LaPlace, Louisiana, is the largest emitter of chloroprene in the nation, a chemical released during the production of neoprene. Given the plant is the sole source of neoprene in the U.S., the emissions sparked significant concern among the EPA and local residents, hence the demand for immediate emission reductions.

Political Reactions and Support for Denka

The Trump administration’s decision to withdraw the lawsuit has been hailed as a triumph by several state leaders. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, a staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump, visited the Denka plant in a display of solidarity and criticized the prior administration’s focus on environmental justice as “unwarranted.” Aren against the EPA’s “attack” on local industry, Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill and DEQ Secretary Aurelia Giacometto expressed gratitude for the decision, emphasizing the need for a reconsideration of such regulations to better align with state and industry interests.

Statements from State Officials

• Governor Jeff Landry: “The Biden administration’s actions were unfounded. I am pleased that the current administration is reevaluating their approach to prioritizing essential industry roles within our supply chain.”
• Attorney General Liz Murrill: “This rectification is essential in supporting our state’s industry and economic contributions.”
• Aurelia Giacometto: “This decision allows us to leverage state resources more effectively, aligning with national energy goals while benefiting both Louisiana’s economy and the American public at large.”

Community Concerns and Advocacy

Despite the political support for the decision, community groups and residents in “Cancer Alley”—the heavily industrialized corridor between Baton Rouge and New Orleans—are alarmed. The region’s population, which is predominantly Black, has long faced excessive health risks due to industrial pollution.

Voices from the Community

Advocacy organizations like RISE St. James and the Concerned Citizens of St. John remain vocal against the EPA’s lawsuit withdrawal, citing the dire implications for public health:

• Sharon Lavigne, RISE St. James: “We will continue to fight for clean air, clean water, and clean soil, in honor of our ancestors.”
• Robert Taylor, Concerned Citizens of St. John: “The government’s shift in focus exacerbates the existing inequalities and environmental injustices faced by our communities.”

Current Emission Challenges at Denka

Despite the halted lawsuit, concerns over emission levels persist. The EPA had previously set a guideline of 0.2 micrograms per cubic meter for chloroprene in surrounding areas. However, current reports indicate concentrations near the facility remain markedly higher, even with a federal ruling mandating emission reductions.

Denka’s proximity to a soon-to-close local elementary school underscores the community’s plight, as the decision to shut down was heavily influenced by the plant’s emissions and the associated health risks to children.

Looking Forward: What’s Next?

With ongoing litigation regarding the EPA’s emission guidelines, the future remains uncertain for Denka and the affected community. Local activists, bolstered by an initial momentum from federal attention during Biden’s tenure, vow to continue their advocacy for regulatory reform and environmental justice.

Conclusion

The decision to drop the EPA lawsuit marks a pivotal point in the intersection of industry, politics, and environmental justice in Louisiana. As these issues continue to unfold, the dialogue between advocates, policymakers, and industry leaders remains crucial in shaping equitable and sustainable pathways forward. Residents and stakeholders alike await further developments, hopeful for a future that acknowledges and rectifies the longstanding environmental disparities within “Cancer Alley.”

For further updates and related news, follow the ongoing coverage by Josie Abugov and others at NOLA.com.

Source: https://www.nola.com/news/environment/denka-cancer-alley-epa-trump/article_ed7a3ecc-fa0a-11ef-9d08-6b59963ab69a.html