Ineos Styrolution, a Germany-based materials maker, confirmed its decision to permanently close its styrene monomer production site in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada on October 24. This closure is due to various factors, including regulatory issues related to benzene emissions and operational challenges.

The company had earlier announced in June 2024 that it intends to close the Sarnia site in next two years by June 2026. The plant has been continually facing scrutiny due to benzene emissions, which is a known carcinogen. It also faced regulatory orders due to this and massive protests by the nearby community. Currently, the plant has been shut down since April 2024.

Earlier, Ineos Styrolution conducted an assessment drive to determine whether it is feasible to restart the site temporarily, but eventually concluded that it was not operationally viable or economically justifiable. According to a press released by the company, the exact date of closure is yet to be finalized. It expects the decommissioning and closure process to be completed by the beginning of fourth quarter of 2025.

Ineos Styrolution’s CEO, Steve Harrington in a presser said, “We are now focused on conducting a safe, responsible, and compliant closure process and supporting our employees, contractors, customers, and partners, including offering transition support for impacted employees. I want to extend my deepest appreciation to our Sarnia team for their contributions to our business over the years.”

The Sarnia styrene facility was built in 1943 and has been under Ineos ownership since 2011. Previously too, the plant has faced temporary shutdowns due to regulatory orders related to benzene emissions. Closure of this plant is a huge sigh of relief for the local communities and is a positive step for the environment.

Ineos Styrolution's decision to permanently close its Sarnia styrene plant is a significant development with implications for the environment, economy, and regulatory landscape. The closure reflects the challenges faced by industrial facilities in balancing economic interests with environmental responsibilities.

Styrene monomer is a versatile chemical which is used in making a wide range of products. Polystyrene resins, one of its derivative, are used in packaging, cups, toys, and more. Food and drink industry heavily relies on styrene since it is used in making packaging containers. Paints and coatings utilize styrene for latex paints and styrene-alkyd coatings. Synthetic rubbers, construction materials like pipes, fittings, and tanks, and household items such as flooring and tableware also rely on styrene. Transportation benefits from styrene in tires, reinforced plastics, and automotive body putty. Even ballistic panels for military use incorporate styrene. Styrene is widely used in making DIY home projects.