Radius Recycling Ordered to Reduce Pollution into San Francisco Bay

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The United States Environmental Protection Agency announced this afternoon that it has reached an agreement with Radius Recycling, formerly known as Schnitzer Steel, that will reduce pollution from Radius’ West Oakland operations. Water runoff from the metal scrap yard, which contains several types of dangerous pollutants, washes into the San Francisco Bay. 

Radius agreed to the changes in the wake of the recycler’s violations of its operating permit under the Clean Water Act — and in the context of a history of environmental violations. 

“This order requires Radius Recycling to improve the quality of water discharges leaving the facility, which will help reduce the flow of pollutants into San Francisco Bay,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Region Director for Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Amy Miller. “This agreement will improve the general cleanliness of the site and address local community health and safety concerns.”

The EPA announced the new agreement with the metal shredding facility after it was found that their wastewater discharge exceeded federally set limits for zinc, copper, and acute water toxicity. 

The Bay is at particular risk for these pollutants, as already high levels of metal in the water pose a risk to humans and wildlife, according to the EPA. 

EPA officials signed the agreement with the metal shredding facility on June 10. Radius has 30 days from that date to install a granular activated carbon treatment unit to filter pollutants and bring them down to acceptable levels. 

They are also tasked with creating and submitting for review within 60 days a water pollution prevention plan aimed at increasing site inspections and cleaning and maintenance operations. After a series of reviews and revisions as needed, Radius will have another 60 days to implement the plan and submit it for final review.

 Courtesy:www.oaklandside.org