Rhode Island AG says recycling operation polluting Providence waterfront

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Two Rhode Island companies are the subject of a complaint filed by Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Kilmartin and Janet Coit, Department of Environmental management director.

The complaint alleges environmental violations from a scrap metal recycling operation along the Providence waterfront on Allens Avenue. The complaint names Rhode Island Recycled Metals (RIRM), property owner AARE and Edward Sciaba Sr., RIRM's on-site manager.

RIRM is a metal recycling business at 434 and 444 Allens Ave., and the complaint alleges the company violated Rhode Island's Oil Pollution Control Act and Water Pollution Act and the DEM's Water Quality Water Quality Regulations.

DEM inspections in October, December, January and February and an inspection in January by the United States Coast Guard showed the companies didn't install storm water controls; comply with mitigative measures; prevent oil spillage; or restore shoreline and remove derelict vessels, Kilmartin says.

"A clean and unpolluted waterfront and Narragansett Bay is a vital component to our economic development, and we cannot allow any company to violate the state's environmental statutes for quick profit," Kilmartin said. "Despite several attempts to address the violations through administrative procedures, these companies have failed to clean up their act and we have no choice but to have this matter resolved in court."

Coit said the companies' did obtain the proper permits to start operations, and then didn't comply with an agreement it reached with the DEM.

"By failing to invest in the equipment and other measures necessary to prevent pollution, their actions harmed the environment,” Coit said. “As government officials work together to stimulate the economy, it's so important that we ensure compliance with our laws to provide an even playing field."

Courtesy: http://legalnewsline.com