What are the risks to Jefferson County that Rockwool could bring?

The Foundation’s current focus is on holding Rockwool, and all governmental authorities involved in the recruitment and construction of this multi-billion dollar insulation manufacturing company factory in Jefferson County, accountable for their actions. We believe that heavy industry like Rockwool will be detrimental to the County’s natural resources and existing industries.

Risk to Child Health

Rockwool’s proposed plant is located two miles or less from where 30% of Jefferson County school students. See this article with quotes from Jerome A. Paulson, MD, FAAP, Pediatric Consultant to the Mid-Atlantic Center for Children’s Health and the Environment.

Risk to Equine Health and Performance

Rockwool’s emissions permit as submitted to the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection state that they would release over 250 tons per year of particulate matter (PM 2.5 and PM 10). Horses are 15 times more sensitive to inhaled particulate matter than humans. Building a plant like Rockwool is risking an equine industry that provides Jefferson County with $191 Million in business volume per year.

Risk to Tourism Industry

Rockwool plans to build two 21-story smokestacks with its plant. These smokestacks will be visible for miles around in Jefferson County’s bucolic setting, thus adding an ugly eyesore in the middle of our gorgeous vistas and historic sites. Additionally, the amount of pollution pushed out by the plant, combined with heavy truck traffic, light pollution, constant noise and more from a plant that will be in operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, will deter any visitors from coming to the area to partake in our area’s natural beauty, vast resources, shopping, historical tours, equine sports, and more.