Caivano Asi: ARPA Campania notes absence of significant pollutants in the air

A wave of reports indicating persistent odors coming from the ASI area of ​​Caivano prompted the Campania Regional Environmental Protection Agency (ARPA) to intervene by conducting air sampling at the PPG Industries Italia site.

The measurements conducted on September 15th did not reveal concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) exceeding the limits of quantification, and no other airborne substances were detected in significant quantities for the parameters still being investigated. The analyses are the result of an investigation initiated following reports of foul-smelling air coming from the areas north of Naples, particularly the areas adjacent to the Caivano ASI, starting on the evening of September 12th.

According to the company's management, the investigations also revealed, dating back to September 11th, the misuse of unsuitable substances during a manufacturing process. Despite the containment measures implemented by the company, including temporary storage of the incorrectly produced mixture in drums, a partial product leak occurred on September 12th. The formulation contains ethyl acrylate, a substance with a pungent odor and a particularly low olfactory threshold.

The incident was contained by company personnel, but a repeated spill occurred during the night between September 14th and 15th, which was also promptly addressed. The spills affected a paved surface; no infiltration was found into the soil or the wastewater management system.

The company has activated procedures with an authorized operator to promptly sample, classify, and dispose of the waste produced and the materials used for safety measures. The final removal, cleanup of the area, and disposal of the waste remain the sole responsibility of PPG Industries Italia, in compliance with the issued regulations and under the constant supervision of the relevant authorities.