Stop the construction of Air Products plant on Grissom Parkway

77

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The Issue

I live near the recently proposed site for the new Air Products plant on Grissom Parkway, and I am deeply concerned about the impact it will have on our environment and community. This industrial gas company plans to produce liquid oxygen, nitrogen, and argon—gases that are indeed essential for nearby space operations but could threaten our local air quality. Given that this plant is slated to open its doors in 2028, we have time to address and potentially stop this project. The proposed location is too close to residential areas, including the RV and Boat storage community, which would be directly affected by increased pollution. The air contamination from industrial operations is a risk that many of us cannot accept. It's not just about bad odors or unsightliness; this is about the health and safety of families who have made this area their home, and the long-term environmental impact it poses. Moreover, industrial plants of this kind have been linked to increased respiratory problems and other health issues due to emissions. According to studies cited by the Environmental Protection Agency, emissions from such facilities can lead to a significant rise in local air pollution, which is particularly concerning for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Despite the necessity of these gases for space operations, the welfare of local residents should remain a priority. There are alternative locations that may mitigate the impact on residential areas. By selecting a site further away from populated areas, Air Products can fulfill their industrial objectives without jeopardizing the health and quality of life for local citizens. The factory i am describing is an oxygen an nitrogen Air Separation Unit (ASU). While ASUs do separate natural air into its components (nitrogen and oxygen) using super-cooling rather than using traditional chemical refrigerants, the process itself carries specific health risks that require strict regulation.Specific operational health hazards of air separation plants include:Asphyxiation Risk: Nitrogen is an odorless, tasteless gas that naturally makes up about 76%of the air we breathe. However, if a high concentration of it leaks in an enclosed space, it quickly displaces the oxygen in the air, which can lead to unconsciousness and suffocation.Fire Hazard: Because the plant produces and handles pure oxygen, there is an extremely high risk of fire or explosion if pure oxygen comes into contact with grease, oil, or flammable materials.Cryogenic Burns: The super-cooling process requires extremely cold temperatures (below 300f. Contact with liquid nitrogen or liquid oxygen can cause instant frostbite and severe tissue damage.Equipment Emissions: While the basic air separation process is clean, plants require large compressors, cooling towers, and maintenance. If the facility uses traditional chemical coolants or lubricants, leaks could release harmful vapors into the environment.Because of these risks, occupational safety guidelines mandate strict ventilation and Occupational Safety and Health Administration monitoring in and around these facilities. And this factory can explode. This factory also will use enough electricity to run 8,000 homes, so does that mean our electricity bill will go up to help run this factory 24/7? That means noise from factory all night an day. Or the going to build a new electricity factory on the 20 acres they bought in the Cocoa industrial park? Which we will pay for in taxes and electricity bill going up. This factory is a health issue an a financial issue. Yes I done my research... Your signature can make a difference. Join me in urging Air Products and local authorities to reconsider the location of this plant. Please sign this petition to show your support for a healthier, safer community.

The Decision Makers

Cocoa City Council
4 Members
Lorraine Koss
Cocoa City Council - District 4
Patricia Weeks
Cocoa City Council - District 3
James Goins
Cocoa City Council - District 1
Michael Blake
Cocoa City Mayor
Sussan Ley
Minister for the Environment
Tanya Plibersek
Minister for the Environment and Water

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