WASHINGTON — The U.S. EPA announced the settlement of charges against Morton International Inc. that alleged the company violated several environmental laws at its Moss Point, MS, facility.
Under a civil settlement and criminal plea agreement, Morton — acquired in June 1999 by Rohm and Haas Co. — will pay a $20 million penalty that the EPA says is the largest civil fine ever levied for environmental violations at a single manufacturing site. Morton produces polysulfide and epoxy systems, polysulfide-based coatings and sealants, rocket polymers, and other chemicals and adhesives at the facility, which was built in 1952.