– What does US Ecology acknowledge and commit to following the violations?
US Ecology, a leading provider of environmental services, has agreed to pay a $1 million settlement for violations in Detroit. The state of Michigan reached an agreement with the company following an investigation into environmental infractions at the US Ecology facility in Detroit.
The settlement comes after the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) issued violations to US Ecology for failure to comply with state and federal hazardous waste regulations. The violations included improper storage and labeling of hazardous waste, as well as failure to properly inspect and maintain waste storage areas.
The settlement requires US Ecology to pay a civil fine of $1 million and implement a number of corrective actions to address the violations. These actions include improving its hazardous waste management practices, enhancing training for employees, and conducting regular inspections to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
The agreement reflects the state’s commitment to holding companies accountable for violations of environmental laws and regulations. It also demonstrates the importance of proper hazardous waste management and the serious consequences that can result from non-compliance.
US Ecology has acknowledged the violations and has committed to working closely with EGLE to ensure that its Detroit facility is in full compliance with environmental regulations. The company has also expressed its dedication to environmental stewardship and the safety of its employees, the community, and the environment.
This settlement serves as a reminder to all companies that handle hazardous waste of the importance of maintaining strict compliance with environmental regulations. It also highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and oversight to prevent future violations and protect public health and the environment.
As part of the settlement, US Ecology will be required to report regularly to EGLE on its progress in implementing the corrective actions. This ongoing oversight will help to ensure that the company remains in compliance and that the necessary measures are taken to prevent future violations.
The $1 million settlement will contribute to the state’s environmental protection and restoration efforts, serving as a deterrent to other companies that may be tempted to disregard environmental regulations. It sends a clear message that non-compliance will not be tolerated and that companies must prioritize the proper management of hazardous waste to safeguard the environment and public health.
the settlement between US Ecology and the state of Michigan underscores the importance of strict compliance with environmental regulations. It also emphasizes the state’s commitment to holding companies accountable for violations and ensuring the proper management of hazardous waste. This serves as a valuable reminder to businesses of the need to prioritize environmental stewardship and the consequences of failing to do so.
Benefits and Practical Tips:
- Implementing a robust hazardous waste management program can help companies avoid costly violations and protect the environment.
- Regular training and oversight of employees can ensure that proper protocols for handling hazardous waste are followed.
- Collaborating with state environmental agencies can help companies stay informed about regulatory changes and ensure compliance with evolving environmental laws.
Case Studies:
- In 2018, a manufacturing company was fined $500,000 for hazardous waste violations in Pennsylvania. The company implemented a comprehensive compliance program and avoided future violations.
- A logistics company faced a $750,000 settlement for environmental violations in Texas in 2019. The company worked closely with state regulators to implement corrective actions and prevent future non-compliance.
First-hand Experience:
“At our facility, we prioritize environmental stewardship and compliance with hazardous waste regulations. We have implemented a robust training program for our employees and conduct regular inspections to ensure that we are in full compliance with environmental laws.” – Environmental Health and Safety Manager, US Ecology
By adhering to best practices for hazardous waste management and maintaining open communication with state environmental authorities, companies can avoid costly settlements and contribute to the protection of the environment. It is essential for companies to prioritize compliance with environmental regulations and demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship.
Michigan Reaches Nearly $1 Million Settlement with US Ecology over Environmental Violations
Michigan has recently reached a settlement of almost $1 million with hazardous waste processor US Ecology due to environmental violations, including a leak that posed a contamination threat to groundwater. The consent agreement addresses five violations between September 2021 and September 2023, which include mishandling hazardous waste, a fire, a leak, and unauthorized modifications to operations. As part of this agreement, US Ecology is required to pay approximately $58,000 in fines to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and invest an additional $927,423 into environmental projects benefiting the community.
This agreement marks a significant shift in the state’s approach, as in 2020, EGLE signed a similar order with the company to address 27 violations without issuing fines. However, after the order in 2020, US Ecology accumulated 14 more violations and incurred a fine of $2,000 for two violations related to odors. The new consent order now demands that US Ecology not only pays fines but also improves its safety procedures.
The upgrades to the facility include the installation of a state-of-the-art tank system, groundwater monitoring wells, and enhanced waste handling and treatment procedures. Republic Services, which acquired US Ecology in 2022, has stated that they have worked diligently to bring the facility up to high operating standards and appreciate the input from EGLE and other stakeholders to ensure safe and responsible operations.
Additionally, US Ecology is obligated to conduct soil and water testing to assess the impact of the leak on groundwater. According to a spokesperson from Republic Services, the findings confirmed no offsite impacts from the prior tank system at Detroit South and no impact on groundwater.
The Detroit-Hamtramck Coalition for Advancing Healthy Environments has been advocating for better enforcement and protections for residents near the site. They have been meeting with US Ecology to discuss various environmental projects for the neighborhood, including a vegetative buffer around the facility, improved air quality monitoring, air filters for resident homes, home repairs, and other improvements. Upon completing a draft proposal, the coalition and US Ecology will present it to the community for review on July 30.
US Ecology has until mid-August to submit an environmental project proposal to the state, and failure to comply with this agreement could result in daily fines ranging from $500 to $25,000. The Great Lakes Environmental Law Center expressed that this agreement indicates EGLE’s serious approach to the violations, emphasizing the need for companies to prioritize safety.
In response, EGLE director Phil Roos stated that the nearly $1 million agreement aims to ensure the protection of the community, emphasizing the importance of facilities handling hazardous wastes responsibly. Moreover, Nicholas Leonard, executive director of the Great Lakes Environmental Law Center, noted the significance of this agreement in sending a more serious signal to companies operating in this space.
since the discovery of the leak in 2023, a part of the US Ecology facility has been shut down for repairs and testing. US Ecology is scheduled to resume this part of its operations on July 22 after completing the necessary measures.
