The NYSDEC (New York State Department of Environmental Conservation) has accepted the FEIS (Final Environmental Impact Statement) from the Lafarge Cement Plant in Ravena as complete.



The application marks the end of one step in the years-long effort to modernise the cement plant’s operation and the beginning of another phase.



According to Lafarge Environmental Manager John Reagan, following a "mandatory 10-day waiting period" the DEC can issue their Findings Statement.

Soon after, Lafarge hopes to get permits for the modernisation project construction, which could start as early as fall of 2011 with grounds preparation, grading and drainage.



The FEIS includes the Title Five Air Permit and SPDES (State Pollution Discharge Elimination System) permits.

Reagan explained the permits include modifications to the existing permits for the two wet-kilns

as well as conditions for the proposed replacement dry kiln.

According to the DEC, the new cement-making technology will be more energy efficient.



The dry kiln, with its preheater/precalcinator tower and grinding mill upgrades, will decrease electrical consumption and greenhouse gas emissions per ton of clinker produced.

It will also result in significantly lower mercury emissions.

The modernisation represents an investment of more than US$300m.