Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Spring 2-21-2025
Abstract
An ethical dilemma in the Appalachian region can be illustrated with the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant, referred to as the A-Plant. Initially, it was constructed to produce nuclear military weapons during the Cold War, the plant was then used as a uranium production energy for commercial use throughout the country. In positive terms, the plant helped the economy, created a path to energy independence and was a front line for national security. Contrary, it posed a severe threat to the environment, public safety and health as contamination, radiation exposure and the lack of transparency from officials put communities at risk.
This study will argue the A-plant ethical responsibility using theoretical frameworks such as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Corporate Social Investment (CSI). It will weigh the economic benefits of the operation with the environment and public damages made evaluated on the long-term consequences. The plant’s failure in decision-making, taking responsibility for ethical behaviors, risks due to contamination and the impact on the surrounding area will be addressed.
This paper will also compare the A-Plant situation with other cases such as the BP Deepwater Horizon Spill and the Chernobyl Disaster, where both cases show that prioritizing profit and public over ethical duties can be dangerous. This paper concludes that corporations need to have stricter regulation, full transparency and a long-term plan for remediation. To obtain the trust of the stakeholders again, A-Plant and similar corporations need to commit to strict ethical plans, sustainable business practices and responsible management programs.
Course Level
BUMG 6100: Regulations & Ethics in Business
Advisor
Claudia Hanrahan, PhD
Recommended Citation
Hurn, Alexia; Atuahene, Gloria; and Gregory, Sanaya, "Navigating Ethical Responsibilities at the A-Plant in Piketon, Ohio: Applying Corporate Social Responsibility and Investment Frameworks" (2025). Business Ethics. 11.
https://digitalcommons.shawnee.edu/business_ethics_3100/11