August 24, 2009
MOSCOW, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee environmental regulators have issued their largest ever fine for air pollution to a Fayette County manufacturer of fiberglass reinforced panels.
Officials with the Department of Environment and Conservation say the $600,000 fine against the Stabilit America Inc. plant in Moscow reflects the commercial advantage the company gained by violating its air pollution permit from 2006 to 2008.
Spokeswoman Meg Lockhart says the fine is four times the previous record fine issued against a Tazewell firm in 2005.
The Moscow plant was found to have discharged excessive amounts of the chemical styrene, which is considered a possible human carcinogen and can cause damage to the nervous system.
Stabilit, which waived its right to appeal, was ordered to pay the fine immediately.
