PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Uroboros Glass and the Oregon DEQ struck a new agreement that restricts the glass maker’s use of cadmium, chromium and nickel to levels determined by the Oregon Health Authority.
Uroboros is 1 of 2 Portland glass factories that recently came under fire when the DEQ revealed certain Portland neighborhoods were exposed to elevated levels of toxic heavy metals.
“We need to look at our zoning and our pollution laws so that everyone can be safe,” Jessica Applegate with the Eastside Portland Air Coalition told KOIN 6 News.
Uroboros, located in Northeast Portland, has been using cadmium for 35 years. On February 14, they — along with Bullseye Glass — agreed to stop using cadmium and arsenic in their manufacturing, along with a third, more toxic metal, chromium.
The agreement allows them to use cadmium, chromium and nickel within the protective levels. It also allows Uroboros to return to partial operations.
“This agreement is critical in filling a regulatory gap that persists until temporary rules are adopted by the Environmental Quality Commission and is a necessary step to ensure public health is protected as the public rulemaking process is carried out,” Acting DEQ Director Joni Hammond said in a statement.
The agreement takes effect immediately.
“That’s a step in the right direction,” Applegate said.
Uroboros officials declined to comment on the agreement.
Filed under: Environment, Multnomah County, Oregon, Portland, Top Video Tagged: Portland Air Quality
