The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) is currently seeking public input on a proposed modification to the air quality permit for Domtar Paper Company in Martin County.
Domtar has requested an amendment to its existing Title V air quality permit. The company seeks approval to double the throughput limit of green logs processed at its woodyard, increasing it from 2.2 million tons per year to 4.4 million tons annually. According to the company, this change would not involve any physical modifications at the mill or an increase in pulp production.
With this proposed change, emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are expected to rise, reaching levels that require compliance with the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) permitting program. As part of this process, Domtar will need to implement best available control technology and follow good operation and maintenance practices in its woodyard.
Air dispersion modeling reviewed by DAQ indicates that although VOC emissions will increase, they are not projected to exceed federal health-based air quality standards outside the facility’s boundaries. The draft permit contains conditions designed to ensure that all pollutants emitted comply with applicable emission and health-based standards beyond the facility’s fence line. It also requires recordkeeping, reporting, and regular inspections.
The Division of Air Quality will review all public comments before making a final decision on whether to approve the permit modification. Comments or requests for a public hearing can be submitted until November 25, 2025.
Public comments may be emailed to daq.publiccomments@deq.nc.gov with “Domtar.25A” in the subject line or left via voicemail at 919-707-8728. Written comments can also be mailed to NCDEQ Division of Air Quality, 1641 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1641.
Copies of related documents including the public notice, draft permit materials, and a project fact sheet are available online.
For those needing information in another language, assistance is available by calling 919-707-8446 or emailing Shawn.Taylor@deq.nc.gov.
