Intel emits tons of fluoride for 35 years unbeknownst to Oregon residents and regulatory agencies

(http://www.oregonlive.com) Intel has been emitting fluoride from one of its facilities in Hillsboro, Oregon, without a permit for the past 35 years, but state officials and residents are only just now finding out about it.

At a permit meeting this week, state environmental engineer George Davis told residents, "Fluoride is unfortunately a bit of an oversight." He also said that Oregon's Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and Intel are both at fault and the company would receive a violation, but the problem would be corrected.

Some residents are concerned about the company's huge chemical output. This fear is reflected by residents around the site of another Intel factory near Albuquerque, New Mexico, which may contribute to respiratory disease, as well. According to Oregonlive.com, "Intel is applying for a new air quality permit in Washington County that will increase its volatile organic compounds limit and add greenhouse gases and fluoride to its permit."

The company plans to emit as much as 6.4 tons of fluoride per year. The second public hearing on the matter will be held in Hillsboro on Monday night. Residents can submit written comments to DEQ.

Davis acknowledged the previously unknown fluoride pollution as a valid community concern, but says that he doesn't think it's dangerous.