EPA enforcement action resolves alleged Clean Air Act violations by Topsham, Maine company

EPA enforcement action resolves alleged Clean Air Act violations by Topsham, Maine company

November 13, 2024

BOSTON (November 13, 2024) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced a settlement with Grimmel Industries, Inc., that resolves alleged violations of the Clean Air Act and the Maine State Implementation Plan at the company's scrap metal shredding facility in Topsham, Maine. Under the settlement, Grimmel has agreed to pay a penalty of $42,613 and has submitted a permit application to the State of Maine for its shredding activities that will improve the facility's compliance with federal and state laws.

"Having permits that restrict emissions are incredibly important to keeping communities in-the-know and protecting the environment around us. Facilities like Grimmel Industries' that emit air pollution must follow the law to ensure that local neighborhoods don't face unnecessary air quality burdens," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Clean Air Act settlements, like this one, reiterate EPA's commitment to protecting public health and the environment, and make sure that companies are being held accountable for their actions."

Grimmel Industries, Inc., owns and operates a scrap metal shredding facility in Topsham, Maine. EPA alleged that the company failed to have the correct air emissions license for its shredder, which limits the amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may be released into the air, and failed to meet technology requirements. Additionally, EPA alleged that the company failed to get a Clean Air Act Title V operating permit, also known as an air emission license, which is required for major sources of air pollution in Maine.

Grimmel's failure to have the proper permits in place resulted in the facility having incorrect air emission limits at the time of EPA inspection. It's important that regulated facilities have the proper permits in place so regulators like EPA and state agencies can accurately determine whether these facilities are complying with the law.

Background

The CAA was enacted by Congress to promote the public health and welfare through prevention and regulation of air pollution from mobile and stationary sources. The CAA requires states to adopt federally enforceable plans to ensure the implementation and enforcement of National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) at the local level. VOC emissions contribute to the formation of ground level ozone and to violations of the NAAQS for ozone. Exposure to VOCs may cause cancer, eye irritation, respiratory problems, and damage to the nervous system.

More information:

Permitting Under the Clean Air Act

Title V Operating Permits