EPA: Chemical distributors emit fewer toxins

NACD's Responsible Distribution Process having positive effect

By Susan Avery -- Purchasing, 3/3/2008 7:40:00 AM

New data from a just published Environmental Protection Agency report show chemical distributors that follow the National Association of Chemical Distributors Responsible Distribution Process are emitting fewer toxic emissions than other chemical distributors. 

According to the recently released 2006 Toxics Release Inventory Public Data Release Report, the average release of toxic emissions per NACD member facility is the lowest in reporting history at 2,650 lb.
The average release per non-NACD facility is 3,275 lb., almost 24% higher than the average release per NACD facility.
The average toxic emissions per NACD member continues to decrease since the EPA began requiring chemical distributors to report in 1998. In that first year of reporting, NACD members reported an average release of 4,190 lb. per facility, well over 50% higher than the 2006 average of 2,650 lb.
“The significant and consistent decreases in average emissions per NACD member facility since chemical distributors were required to report their emissions under TRI is an example of the success of NACD’s Responsible Distribution Process, the association’s mandatory health, safety, security and environmental management practice,” says Christopher Jahn, president of the NACD in Arlington, Va. “Through RDP, NACD members strive for continuous improvement in these four areas. The 2006 TRI results demonstrate that NACD members have clearly succeeded in improving environmental performance.” 

See also: Chemicals distribution 2007: Big deals