Process Industries Forecast for 2010

In 2010, we expect that the hard hit chemical industry will stabilize and return to profitability. Many plants or processes that were idled during the current economic recession may reopen and transition cost-reduction efforts into efficiency improvements that focus on sustainability.

While many areas of the chemical industry have ties to the automakers, others have streamlined their operations and refocused their target customers to position themselves for growth in other sectors.

Another challenge facing the process industries is the final rule imposing Area Source Generally Available Control Technology (GACT) standards for the control of hazardous pollutants (HAPS) at chemical manufacturing facilities. The EPA estimates that this rule could potentially affect 450 facilities including more than 150 “small entities” by EPA estimate. Download Fact Sheet

Increasing scrutiny by EPA and State inspection agencies will also be a major focus as these agencies receive Title V deviations that are self-reported by major sources. These deviations result from the new obligations under the Miscellaneous Organic NESHAP (MON) rule that is being codified in Title V operating permits. The agencies are keenly aware of the easy target of this industry and the potential fines for non-compliance. Continued enforcement will focus on leak detection and repair (LDAR) programs for fugitive emissions that have weighed heavily in penalty assessments over the last few years. Additionally, major emitters of greenhouse gas (GHG) will be required to begin tracking these emissions in 2010 and reporting them in 2011. In the coming months, we will be providing a detailed case study that describes Dixon Environmental’s efforts assisting clients in identifying and remedying deficiencies in their MON compliance program.