Detroit, Michigan, December 2, 2025
Residents and legislators in Detroit are advocating for the closure of the US Ecology Detroit South facility due to ongoing complaints about noxious odors and environmental health concerns. Local organizations, including the Detroit Hamtramck Coalition for Advancing Healthy Environments, are opposing the facility’s permit renewal, citing a troubling history of environmental violations. Despite the operator’s claims of improvements in odor management and waste processing, community members remain concerned about health risks associated with the facility. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy is currently reviewing the permit application amidst this growing demand for action.
Detroit Residents and Lawmakers Call for Shutdown of US Ecology Detroit South Amid Odor Complaints
Detroit, Michigan – Residents and lawmakers are urging the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to shut down the US Ecology Detroit South hazardous waste facility due to persistent noxious odors and environmental concerns. The facility, located at 1923 Frederick Street, is currently seeking permit renewal from state environmental regulators.
Community Concerns and Health Impacts
Neighbors near the facility have reported ongoing issues with strong, unpleasant odors and other environmental concerns. One resident described a recent incident where the air smelled like burning chemicals and rotting fish, affecting her and her 2-year-old son. Another neighbor emphasized the seriousness of these emissions, stating that the odors are not just unpleasant but potentially hazardous, likening them to poisonous substances.
Opposition from Local Organizations and Officials
The Detroit Hamtramck Coalition for Advancing Healthy Environments (DHCAHE) is leading the opposition to the facility’s permit renewal. The group held a press conference on December 1, 2025, attended by residents and some lawmakers. State Representative Tonya Myers-Phillips joined the coalition’s efforts, asserting that every family in the community has a right to breathe clean air.
Facility’s Response and Regulatory Actions
Republic Services, which operates the facility, defended its operations, highlighting recent upgrades such as a state-of-the-art tank system, improved storage processes, enhanced waste handling procedures, and a new on-site lab for material testing. To address community concerns about odor, the facility updated its odor management plan, added a fourth air monitoring station, and is evaluating additional air pollution controls.
In a significant development, Wayne County Commissioners recently passed a resolution supporting the denial of the facility’s permit renewal. This action adds political weight to the community’s demands for closure. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy is currently reviewing the permit renewal application for US Ecology Detroit South, considering both community concerns and the company’s recent improvements.
Background on Facility’s Environmental Record
US Ecology Detroit South has a history of environmental violations. In July 2024, EGLE and US Ecology entered a consent order to address violations of state and federal waste regulations at the facility. The order required the company to pay penalties and fund environmental projects to benefit the community. Despite these actions, residents continue to report issues with odors and other environmental concerns.
Conclusion
The situation at US Ecology Detroit South highlights ongoing tensions between industrial operations and community health concerns. As EGLE reviews the facility’s permit renewal application, the agency faces the challenge of balancing regulatory compliance with the well-being of Detroit residents.
FAQ
- What is US Ecology Detroit South?
- US Ecology Detroit South is a hazardous waste treatment facility located at 1923 Frederick Street in Detroit, Michigan. It processes hazardous and non-hazardous wastes before sending them off-site for disposal.
- Why are residents and lawmakers calling for the facility’s shutdown?
- Residents and lawmakers are calling for the shutdown due to persistent noxious odors and environmental concerns associated with the facility’s operations.
- What actions has the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) taken regarding the facility?
- EGLE has received complaints from the public and has conducted site inspections, substantiating the complaints. Nine violation notices have been submitted to US Ecology by EGLE since 2020.
- What is the current status of the facility’s permit renewal application?
- The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy is currently reviewing the permit renewal application for US Ecology Detroit South, considering both community concerns and the company’s recent improvements.
- What is the Detroit Hamtramck Coalition for Advancing Healthy Environments (DHCAHE)?
- DHCAHE is a local organization leading the opposition to the facility’s permit renewal, advocating for the community’s right to clean air and a healthy environment.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Facility Name | US Ecology Detroit South |
| Location | 1923 Frederick Street, Detroit, Michigan |
| Community Concerns | Persistent noxious odors and environmental issues |
| Opposition Leaders | Detroit Hamtramck Coalition for Advancing Healthy Environments (DHCAHE) |
| Regulatory Actions | EGLE reviewing permit renewal application; Wayne County Commissioners support denial |
| Facility’s Response | Claims of recent upgrades and improved odor management |
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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
