Asphalt facility in Hósvík not requiring permit raises concerns over odors

The asphalt and bitumen storage facility at Landsverk in Hósvík does not require an environmental permit, as it was established before the environmental permit law was enacted in 1988. The facility dates back to 1977, with the last tank built in 1985.

Despite lacking an environmental permit, the Environmental Agency conducts inspections of the facility. This was addressed by Dennis Holm, a government minister, in response to inquiries from Kim Durhuus, a member of the parliament, regarding the asphalt storage site in Hósvík.

Concerns were raised in the spring when the facility received bitumen, leading to reports of unpleasant odors. In response, Landsverk plans to implement modifications in future procurement processes, introducing stricter environmental requirements.

If these measures prove effective, it is hoped that the unpleasant odors associated with the bitumen delivery by ship and during asphalt laying will be reduced, according to Dennis Holm. Among the planned actions, Landsverk intends to install filters on the bitumen tanks.

Holm emphasized that Landsverk reviews annually which environmental measures should be undertaken.