Covington, Virginia has long been defined by its paper mill, a towering presence in the community that employs many of its 5,500 residents. However, a recent report has shed light on the mill’s harmful impact on the environment. The nonprofit Environmental Integrity Project (EIP) released findings that revealed the Covington mill, along with 185 other similar facilities across the country, are significant contributors to nitrogen oxide, methane, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Residents like 65-year-old Robin Brown have expressed concerns about the visible pollution in the area, describing ash-covered snow and a foul odor reminiscent of rotten eggs. The EIP report exposed a concerning gap in the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) reporting rules, which fail to account for biogenic carbon dioxide emissions from natural sources like wood, a primary fuel for the paper industry. As a result, the largest paper mills can emit greenhouse gases at levels comparable to large oil refineries, effectively masking the industry’s true environmental impact.
Courtney Bernhardt, director of research at EIP, emphasized the urgent need to address the pollution caused by outdated equipment in paper plants. Many facilities continue to operate with inefficient machinery, leading to high levels of harmful emissions. The Clean Air Act allows for the grandfathering of equipment until it needs replacement, at which point emissions reductions can be significant. Bernhardt cited examples of facilities that saw drastic drops in sulfur dioxide emissions after upgrading their boilers.
Looking ahead, there is a push for the industry to transition to more efficient and sustainable technologies. Professor Sunkyu Park of North Carolina State University is researching cleaner options for pulp and paper processing, focusing on electric boilers and reduced natural gas usage. While these developments are in the early stages, the goal is to eventually implement technology that reduces carbon dioxide emissions and aligns with clean energy initiatives.
The EIP’s report serves as a call to action for the paper industry to address its environmental impact and move towards more sustainable practices. While paper and cardboard are essential commodities, there is a pressing need to combat the industry’s greenwashing and prioritize environmental responsibility. As the conversation around sustainability continues to evolve, it is crucial for the industry to adapt and prioritize the health of the planet.
