Concerns Rise in Augusta Over Syensqo’s Chemical Plant Expansion

News Summary

Community members in Augusta are expressing their concerns regarding the potential health hazards linked to the expansion of Syensqo Group’s chemical plant. The public hearing hosted by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division highlighted worries about emissions and air quality, particularly the plant’s projected release of 50 tons of hazardous air pollutants annually. While Syensqo aims for sustainability and has received a $178 million grant for a new facility, residents call for transparency and clarity on the impact of the expansion on their community.

Concerns Rise in Augusta Over Syensqo’s Chemical Plant Expansion

In the heart of Augusta, community members are voicing their worries as discussions heat up surrounding the expansion of Syensqo Group’s chemical plant. The Georgia Environmental Protection Division recently hosted a public hearing, allowing residents to express their concerns about potential health hazards linked to the plant’s expansion.

A Look at Syensqo

Formerly known as Solvay, Syensqo specializes in the production of advanced materials for a wide range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, and healthcare. The name change came about in December 2023 when Solvay split into two entities—Solvay now focuses on essential chemicals, while Syensqo is dedicated to specialty chemicals.

However, the potential for the Augusta facility to emit around 50 tons of hazardous air pollutants annually, including over 25 tons of toxic chlorobenzene, is ringing alarm bells for residents. This expansion raises serious questions regarding air quality and public health in a community that is already grappling with industrial pollution concerns.

Pollution Data Sparks Alarm

Experts are highlighting troubling data from air monitors in Augusta, which show levels of fine particulate matter crossing federal health standards. There’s a significant worry that the proposed expansion could worsen an already challenging situation. Additionally, a hefty fine of nearly $400 million has been slapped on Solvay for environmental violations at its New Jersey facility, adding fuel to the fire for those opposing the expansion in Augusta.

In a further alarming statistic, Syensqo’s CO2 emissions have seen a shocking increase of 79% over the last decade, currently at 51,567 metric tons—which is akin to burning over 56 million pounds of coal. These figures have residents questioning whether the benefits of the expansion outweigh the potential risks to their health and environment.

Voices from the Community

Tonya Bonitatibus, who leads Savannah Riverkeeper, similarly emphasized the need for transparency regarding the chemicals involved in the permit application. Residents are eager for clear answers, and without them, uncertainties loom large in the community.

Promising Developments at Syensqo

Despite the worries, there is some good news for Augusta. The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded Syensqo a substantial $178 million grant aimed at constructing a new facility dedicated to producing battery-grade polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). This new endeavor positions Syensqo to become North America’s largest PVDF production site, a crucial move for meeting the growing demands of the electric vehicle market.

With this new facility, Syensqo is projected to create about 500 construction jobs along with more than 100 skilled manufacturing positions. To further contribute to the community, Syensqo has committed $1 million toward local workforce development, prioritizing educational resources for underrepresented communities.

What’s Next for Augusta?

As the community navigates these discussions, the balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility remains a hot topic. Residents are eagerly awaiting more transparent communication from Syensqo as they contemplate the future of their air quality amid ongoing industrial activities.

The upcoming weeks will be pivotal as community members continue to voice their concerns and seek clarity on the potential impacts of the plant’s expansion. In a city rich with history and progress, residents are determined to protect their community while embracing new opportunities.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• Augusta Chronicle: Concerns Rise Over Syensqo’s Chemical Plant Expansion
• Google Search: Syensqo plant expansion
• WJBF: Syensqo Groundbreaking Ceremony for New Plant Expansion
• Google Scholar: Syensqo chemical plant
• Plastics News: Asahi Kasei Investing in Ontario, Syensqo Expands in Georgia
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Chemical Pollution
• Chemanalyst: Syensqo Breaks Ground on Augusta Plant
• Google News: Syensqo Augusta
• Plastics Today: Syensqo Expands Polysulfone Production in Ohio