LETTERS: USE OF WASTE AS FUEL PRESERVES UNRECOVERABLE FOSSIL FUEL

To the editor:

On behalf of Lone Star Industries, Cape Girardeau plant, and other cement manufacturers burning waste fuels I thank you for your interest and recognition of the growing problems facing our industry by the many regulations imposed upon us.

Lone Star is a good corporate citizen and supports the EPA's efforts in regulating the burning of waste fuels, but strongly believes the federal government should acknowledge and encourage appropriate energy recovery through the use of waste-derived fuels in manufacturing processes. To impose regulations beyond sound scientific data and sensible economics is a travesty to the industry. As in many cases, regulations imposed by the EPA have been proven to be more cost restrictive than a strong visible movement towards environmental protection. Industries such as ours invest large capital dollars each year to comply with "new/updated" rules and regulations. The diversion of these capital funds to compliance takes away from expanding the manufacturing base, creating new jobs, thus, creating a larger tax base for community support. We should not be condemned for our efforts but rather gain support from the EPA in researching and implementing a commendable approach that will achieve the goals intended when the agency was formed.

It is through concern such as displayed in your editorial, "EPA and Burning," that facilitate our mission in getting the message to others. Our industry is not out to destroy or take away from the quality of environment we live but rather utilize an existing waste as a source of fuel in our manufacturing process preserving an unrecoverable fossil fuel. Whatever the cause, everyone must admit that adverse relationships exist. Trying to regulate the result while avoiding the echoed problem of lack of interaction, teamwork and true communication has become very costly to our industry.

ROGER J. CAMPBELL

Vice President of Cement Operations

Lone Star Industries Inc.

Cape Girardeau