Residents Weigh Pros and Cons Over Proposed Plastics Recycling Plant in West Virginia

A proposed plastics recycling facility spurred a conversation of pros and cons at a debate this week in Follansbee, W.Va.

Close to 60 people voiced their opinions at the public meeting, which was hosted by Empire Diversified Energy officials. The plant in question will use a process called pyrolysis, turning waste into synthetic gases, oils, and char residue by breaking it down through high heat without oxygen.

“Incineration requires a fire triangle-heat fuel and oxygen,” Bernard Brown, Empire Diversified Energy COO, said. “We take away the oxygen. So, it's an airtight anaerobic environment and we're thermally breaking down the material that goes into the pyrolysis process.”

While the plant would create 25 permanent jobs and more through construction, residents raised concerns about long-term effects, especially regarding air quality.

“I've spoken with residents who are very concerned for the future,” Rachel Meyer, Ohio River Valley field organizer for Mom's Clean Air Force, said. “They really want to see the area cleaned up. They want to see the air quality continue to improve.”

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