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Michigan Attorney General Takes Action Against Polluters

Environmental signs warning about pollution along the Huron River.

News Summary

The Michigan Department of Attorney General has filed a lawsuit against Tribar Technologies Inc. and Adept Plastic Finishing Inc. for serious air and water pollution violations. The companies have been accused of discharging toxic chemicals into the Huron River, prompting immediate regulatory action. Both firms have ceased operations, but contamination concerns persist as stormwater continues to flow from their facilities. The lawsuit seeks to hold these companies accountable and ensure necessary cleanup efforts are enacted to protect public health and the environment.

Wixom, Michigan – The Michigan Department of Attorney General has initiated legal action against two automotive supply companies, Tribar Technologies Inc. and Adept Plastic Finishing Inc., for multiple air and water pollution violations. The lawsuit highlights severe violations under the Michigan Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act.

Tribar Technologies has been specifically accused of discharging toxic hexavalent chromium into the Huron River through the Wixom Wastewater Treatment Plant during 2022. This alarming discharge prompted regulatory scrutiny, culminating in the lawsuit aimed at addressing the significant pollution concerns attributed to these companies.

In light of the ongoing allegations, both Tribar Technologies and Adept Plastic Finishing have ceased operations at their Wixom facilities. However, the situation remains concerning as stormwater contaminated with PFOS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) continues to flow from the sites of the closed facilities.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has stated that the state’s environmental regulations are established to safeguard the air and water quality from harmful toxins. The lawsuit seeks to hold both companies accountable for their actions and mandates that they undertake the necessary cleanup and comply with environmental standards moving forward.

In addition to pursuing civil penalties for environmental violations, the lawsuit also aims to ensure that these companies remediate the pollution resulting from their operations. There is also a legal consideration under the Michigan Business Corporation Act, where the Attorney General is asserting that Tribar does not hold the required certificate of authority to conduct business within the state.

As part of the broader environmental implications, the contamination of the Huron River has led to the temporary closure of Martindale Beach at Kensington Metropark. Local authorities have displayed signage at the beach to warn the public about the risks associated with potential hexavalent chromium contamination.

This lawsuit emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining strict environmental guidelines to protect public health and the ecological integrity of Michigan’s waterways. As the case progresses, it will determine the necessary steps for rehabilitation and whether these corporations will face substantial penalties for their environmental mismanagement.

The actions taken by the Michigan Department of Attorney General underscore the commitment to maintaining a sustainable environment and holding companies accountable for any actions that might endanger the state’s natural resources.

As the legal proceedings develop, residents and stakeholders in Michigan remain vigilant regarding the environmental impact and necessary remedial actions that will ensure the safety of water resources and public spaces affected by industrial operations.