Chemtrade West US LLC, a sulfuric acid manufacturer located in Richmond, has been slapped with a $160,000 fine by the Bay Area Air District for a series of air quality infringements, the agency confirmed. In a move to clamp down on air pollution, particularly in areas burdened with a history of environmental challenges, the Air District emphasizes holding such facilities accountable.
With Richmond residents enduring air pollution for years, Deputy Executive Officer of Engineering and Compliance at the Air District, Dr. Meredith Bauer, underscored the need to deliver healthier living conditions. "The Air District is committed to holding facilities accountable in communities like Richmond, where residents have historically faced disproportionate air pollution," said Dr. Bauer, according to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. "This penalty holds Chemtrade accountable for violations that caused excess emissions, while reinforcing our commitment to deliver cleaner air and healthier communities in Richmond and throughout the Bay Area."
The company, which supplies sulfuric acid to the industrial sector, was found to have committed several violations from 2013 to 2023. Infractions cataloged by the Air District include the failure of Chemtrade to monitor pressure across a crucial piece of pollution control equipment, tardiness in reporting these violations, and a lapse in curbing emissions from internal combustion engines. Following enforcement actions, Chemtrade has reportedly rectified all the cited issues.
Notices of Violation are issued by the Air District when specific air quality rules are breached. Offenders are expected to redress the violation and shoulder financial penalties proportionate to the gravity of the infringement.
