TDEC Issues Violation Notice to Eastman Chemical

The state environmental agency cited the company for accidentally discharging turbine oil into the Holston River in December.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has issued a violation notice to Eastman Chemical Co. for accidentally discharging 3 gallons of turbine oil into the Holston River in December 2025. TDEC stated the incident violated the conditions of Eastman's water permits, and has requested the company provide additional information about actions taken since then.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of chemical companies strictly adhering to environmental regulations to protect local waterways and ecosystems. While Eastman reported there were no observed detrimental effects, any unauthorized discharge can pose risks to aquatic life and public water supplies.

The details

According to TDEC, the oil discharge occurred on December 27, 2025 and was caused by a mechanical failure of one of Eastman's turbine generators at its Kingsport, Tennessee facility. Eastman reported the incident to TDEC the same day and notified other downstream facilities. The company maintains there were no health effects associated with the discharge.

  • The oil discharge occurred on December 27, 2025.
  • TDEC issued the violation notice to Eastman on February 9, 2026.
  • Eastman has until March 6, 2026 to provide TDEC with information about any additional actions taken since the incident.

The players

Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC)

The state environmental agency that oversees and enforces environmental regulations in Tennessee.

Eastman Chemical Co.

A major chemical manufacturing company with facilities in Kingsport, Tennessee that experienced an accidental discharge of turbine oil into the Holston River.

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What they’re saying

“There were no observed 'detrimental' effects to aquatic life and no health effects associated with the discharge.”

— Eastman Chemical Co. (TDEC correspondence)

What’s next

TDEC has requested that Eastman provide additional information about actions taken since the incident by March 6, 2026. The agency will likely determine if further enforcement action is warranted based on Eastman's response.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for chemical manufacturers to have robust safety and environmental protocols in place to prevent accidental spills and discharges that can threaten local waterways. Strict regulatory oversight and swift action by authorities helps hold companies accountable for environmental violations.