Mercury and lead are neurotoxins that attack the central nervous system. Infants and fetuses are particularly susceptible. A recent study by the National Academies of Science found that 60,000 infants suffered health problems due to exposure to mercury. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies chromium and benzene as cancer-causing substances. The Clean Air Act requires the use of best available control technology to control these pollutants.
Scrubbers significantly reduce emissions of sulfur dioxide.
Permit limits and adequate monitoring can help reduce the danger posed by toxics. Despite the potential threat to public health and the environment, DEQ is so far not requiring the Hillman facility to install any technology to control SO2. With respect to toxics, the agency does not set emission limits on the above mentioned substances, does not require the facility to sample or test the tires for toxic content or require frequent stack tests to assure that the emission levels remain low. DEQ justifies its inaction by pointing to the cost to control emissions. Arguments such as these ignore the cost that pollution imposes on the surrounding community.