Frequently Asked Questions
About Citizens' Efforts to Protect Clean Air at the Mountain Cement Plant
Press Release -
Notice of Intent to Sue
- Is the objective of the citizens to shut down Mountain Cement?
- No. The citizens' objective is to ensure that Mountain Cement complies with the pollution limits in its permit. We are trying to control air pollution for the health of our community, as required by Mountain Cement's permit. Controlling pollution is a cost of doing business and should be as much a part of plant operations as paying for workers' salaries.
- How serious are Mountain Cement's alleged violations?
- Very serious. Data from Mountain Cement's own pollution monitors shows the company at times has exceeded by over three-fold the allowable 20% opacity limit. That's equivalent to driving 200 miles per hour on Highway 287. Because Mountain Cement is a known discharger of hazardous air pollutants, any violation of legal limits poses significant human health concerns.
- What is the role of citizens in enforcing the Clean Air Act?
- Under the Clean Air Act citizens are empowered to enforce pollution limits to the same extent as states and the federal government. This is not a case against DEQ or EPA, but a case against Mountain Cement directly.
- Is Mountain Cement a locally owned and operated company?
- Mountain Cement Company is a subsidiary of Eagle Materials, Inc., a Texas-based corporation.
- What would be the economic impact if Mountain Cement were required to comply with its air pollution permit?
- Communities in which companies have been required to meet air pollution requirements have experienced a boost in economic activity and property valuation. Investments in pollution controls bring jobs and spark economic growth. Reduced levels of pollution in the ambient air have also been shown to reduce health care costs to the community.
- What's the solution?
- Better pollution control measures and up-to-date equipment. Currently, Mountain Cement is operating with outdated technology. By upgrading to new technologies, Mountain Cement could better control pollution, continue operations, and continue to provide jobs and revenue for the community.
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