The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Jan. 25 will be opening the floor up to public comment regarding a New Indy Catawba proposal that addresses hydrogen sulfide emissions.
The public commentary comes after an EPA press release reports that the EPA on Dec. 29 "lodged a proposed consent decree" in court and New Indy Catawba agreed to halt H2S concentrations at the Catawba, South Carolina paper mill.
"The proposed settlement requires New Indy Catawba, LLC to operate its steam stripper unit to control hazardous air emissions, monitor and treat sulfur-containing fuel condensate sent to the wastewater treatment system, and improve the functioning of the wastewater treatment system," the release states.
New Indy Catawba will also pay a civil penalty of $1.1 million, according to the release.
"H2S is a flammable, colorless gas that smells like rotten eggs," the release states. "Exposure to H2S may cause irritation to the eyes, nose, or throat. It may also cause difficulty in breathing for individuals with asthma. Respiratory distress or arrest has been observed in people exposed to very high concentrations of H2S."
The release also reports that the hearing will include discussions about the New Indy Catawba, LLC facility in the state.
