Kentucky industries show continued reduction of toxic environmental releases

The EPA’s Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) program requires notification from a wide range of industries that produce or handle listed toxic chemicals above reporting thresholds. Currently there are 593 chemicals and 30 chemical categories covered under the program. The affected industries must report annually releases, transfers, disposal, reuse and recycling activities for these chemicals.

This brings us to the good news: a study by the Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection (DEP) indicates that Kentucky industries saw a continued reduction in toxic environmental releases in 2012. This reflects a general trend, seen since 1988, of declining reports of releases to air and water.

This study shows that Kentucky industries have made it a priority to take care of toxic chemicals at their site. For the facility, it means a decreased risk of enforcement actions, fines, and unwanted attention from state and federal agencies. For the local communities in which these industries are located, it represents a decreased risk to their air and water resources.

If your industry needs assistance with or has questions about TRI reporting, call the Smith Management Group at 859-231-8936.

Sources:

http://kydep.wordpress.com/2014/03/13/kentucky-dep-toxic-release-inventory-analysis-for-the-2012-reporting-year/

http://www2.epa.gov/toxics-release-inventory-tri-program/tri-listed-chemicals