Shell’s Pennsylvania plastics plant: Pollution and broken promises

Residents near Shell's ethane cracker plant in Pennsylvania say pollution and economic letdowns have overshadowed the promised benefits of the facility.

Dharna Noor reports for The Guardian.

In short:

• The Shell plastics plant, which processes fracked gas into plastic, has faced 33 violations for air and water pollution since 2017.
• Locals report respiratory issues, foul odors and water concerns while promised economic benefits have fallen short, with the plant employing only 500 full-time workers.
• Critics accuse Shell of overstating benefits and using community donations to downplay the plant's environmental impact.

Key quote:

“I have to live in a cocoon year-round.”

— Nadine Luci, local resident

Why this matters:

The facility's emissions threaten both public health and the Ohio River watershed, affecting millions. Despite promises of economic growth, the project delivers limited jobs and raises concerns about pollution’s long-term effects on local communities.

Related EHN coverage:

• After repeated air pollution violations, Shell plastics plant hit with federal lawsuit
• The Titans of Plastic
• Shell’s petrochemical plant in Pennsylvania hasn’t spurred economic growth: Report