Because the public is concerned about the health effects of pollutants, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the Toxic Release Inventory (TRI). Facilities such as the Houston site report their emissions annually for the TRI, which is available to the public. Akzo Nobel and other companies in the chemical industry have used the TRI data to identify opportunities to reduce their emissions through pollution prevention.
How has the Houston plant used the TRI information to reduce emissions?
Akzo Nobel's Houston plant currently reports releases of 15 of the approximately 600 chemicals contained in the TRI. Since reporting began 23 chemicals have been included in annual emissions inventory reporting. The bar graph shows a substantial 80% reduction in releases since 1995.
Reported total releases from the SARA (Superfund Amendment Reauthorization Act) Toxic Release Inventory are shown in the graph. A major plant expansion completed in 1999 increased site emission levels.
The chemicals that the Houston plant reports for the TRI include: Ammonia, Acrylic Acid, Ethylene Oxide, Propylene Oxide, N-Butyl Alcohol, Methyl Alcohol, Ethylene Glycol, Cresol, Diethanolamine, Maleic Anhydride, Naphthalene, 1-2-4 Tri methyl Benzene, Toluene, Xylene, and Glycol Ethers.
What improvements are being made to accomplish additional reductions?
Additional reductions are being achieved through modifications of vent systems to prevent pollution at the source. An expansion completed in 1999 enabled reductions by using higher efficiency scrubbing systems to control the emissions from the new production processes.
A process change to reduce vent gas volumes of methyl alcohol through chemical substitution was implemented in 2002.
Additional controls, including condensers and scrubbers are being proposed to reduce VOC emissions from seven older process units.
The company's commitment to the prevention of pollution and the protection of the environment is demonstrated by the decision to implement an environmental management system (EMS) to meet the requirements of ISO 14001 certification. ISO 14001 is a documented environmental management system that undergoes frequent internal and external audits to ensure compliance with our written procedures and stated objectives. Several environmental projects will be undertaken to address key environmental aspects of our operations.
Akzo Nobel's Board of Management continues to set goals to reduce the effect its manufacturing facilities have on the environment. In June 2000, the Board established the following reduction goals for 2005: 33% reduction in organics discharged to surface water; 50% reduction in organic air emissions; 33% reduction in non-recyclable waste materials and 25% reduction in non-recyclable hazardous waste materials. We are on our way toward meeting these goals in concert with the other five Akzo Nobel Surfactants facilities in North and South America.
Where can I learn more about the Akzo Nobel Houston Plant and its environmental performance?
Akzo Nobel and the Houston Plant's management actively encourage members of the public wanting additional information to contact the Environmental Manager, Hank Staniszewski, at 713-443-4430 or henry.staniszewski@sc.akzonobel.com.
