The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a settlement with Argos Puerto Rico Corp. regarding violations of the Clean Air Act. The company, which operates a Portland cement manufacturing plant in Dorado, Puerto Rico, will pay a $111,000 fine and invest over $200,000 in Supplemental Environmental Projects (SEP). These projects involve installing solar energy systems at a nearby school and a center for children facing issues related to abuse and neglect.
Under the agreement, Argos will install two photovoltaic systems on rooftops and two battery backup systems at Casa de Niños Manuel Fernández Juncos in San Juan and Elisa Dávila Vázquez Elementary School in Vega Alta. "This agreement goes beyond ensuring that this facility complies with air pollution control regulations," said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. García. "These projects are particularly welcomed in Puerto Rico, where the power grid is unreliable."
The EPA's investigation revealed that Argos violated several Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) standards under the Clean Air Act for cement manufacturers. Specific violations included non-compliance with emissions standards for dioxins and furans for 130 days, total hydrocarbons testing for one day, and mercury emissions monitoring for 19 days. Additionally, there were 12 instances of failing to meet reporting requirements.
MACT standards are set by the EPA to limit hazardous air pollutants from industrial sources. Violating these standards means failing to control harmful emissions like dioxins or mercury adequately.
Portland cement production is vital globally but contributes significantly to industrial emissions.
While SEPs are not legally required, they provide environmental benefits as part of compliance settlements. The projects will benefit Casa de Niños Manuel Fernández Juncos and Elisa Dávila Vázquez Elementary School by supporting immediate community needs and promoting long-term environmental management.
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