SUN - Marathon to Pay $241M for Environmental Violations | Benzinga
Marathon Oil Corporation (NYSE: MRO) has reached a settlement with the Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") and the Department of Justice ("DOJ"). The $241.5 million agreement addresses alleged air quality violations at MRO's oil and gas operations on North Dakota's Fort Berthold Indian Reservation.
Background of the Settlement
Largest Civil Penalty for Clean Air Act Violations: The settlement includes a civil penalty of $64.5 million, marking the largest ever for violations of the Clean Air Act at stationary sources. These sources include facilities such as oil and gas tank systems, where the alleged violations occurred.
Implementation of Extensive Compliance Measures: MRO has also committed to implementing comprehensive compliance measures, estimated to cost $177 million. These measures aim to achieve significant reductions in harmful emissions from more than 200 facilities across North Dakota.
Impact on Air Quality and Public Health: MRO is required to implement measures to eliminate more than 2.25 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions within five years. This reduction is comparable to taking nearly half a million cars off the road for a year. Additionally, the company must eliminate nearly 110,000 tons of volatile organic compounds, which are known to contribute to respiratory illnesses.
Statements From Key Officials
"This historic settlement – the largest ever civil penalty for violations of the Clean Air Act at stationary sources – will ensure cleaner air for the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation and other communities in North Dakota, while holding ...