Colorado Refinery Gets Roadmap to Cut Air Pollution

Communities surrounding Colorado's Suncor refinery in Commerce City are one step closer to breathing cleaner air, thanks to a comprehensive new study that maps out exactly how the facility can cut pollution.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment commissioned an independent contractor to compare the refinery's current emissions practices against the best technology used at similar facilities nationwide. The result is a detailed roadmap identifying specific opportunities to reduce harmful air pollution.

"This report identifies additional areas for study and evaluation that could potentially address concerns we've heard from community members," said Michael Ogletree, senior director of state air quality programs at CDPHE. The agency hired outside experts rather than writing the report internally to ensure completely unbiased findings.

The study follows requirements set by Colorado's Cumulative Impacts and Environmental Justice Act, legislation designed to protect communities disproportionately affected by pollution. State officials are now reviewing which recommended improvements to pursue through formal rulemaking.

The Ripple Effect

This report represents the latest in a series of wins for environmental justice in Colorado. Just last month, the state adopted new air toxics emissions reduction rules specifically targeting refinery pollution.

In February 2024, officials finalized a $10.5 million enforcement package that established fenceline air monitoring around the facility, giving communities real-time data about what they're breathing. Each action builds on the last, creating stronger protections for families living near industrial sites.

The state plans to hold a virtual public meeting on May 13 to walk community members through the findings and answer questions. Any future regulations will be developed through an open process that includes technical reviews, economic analysis, and direct input from affected residents.

For communities that have long advocated for cleaner air, this independent analysis provides concrete evidence and actionable solutions. The report doesn't just identify problems—it shows exactly how to fix them using proven technology already working at refineries across the country.

Colorado is proving that environmental protection and community health can move from promises to measurable progress, one regulation at a time.

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