Columbian Seeks to Consolidate Air Permits at Hamilton

According to an article in the Hamilton Spectator, Columbian Chemicals Canada is applying for a single, comprehensive air emissions permit for its carbon black plant in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. The single permit would replace 18 individual certificates of approval for the plant, some dating back as far as 1975. A comprehensive permit would allow Columbian to make minor process and equipment improvements without seeking amendments to the existing permits — provided it complied with provincial regulations. The application process also provides an opportunity for the public to comment to the Ontario environment ministry on the matter. The plant was identified by the ministry as a suspect in a recent incident of black fallout in the area.