Lawsuit Filed Against Aluminum Smelting Plant over Alleged Emissions

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): A lawsuit has been filed against the Mt. Holly Century Aluminum plant over multiple emissions into the surrounding air. The smelting plant near Goose Creek had reported multiple incidents of release of white dust, forcing the residents to raise complaints against the company.

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Several people belonging to the community complained about a gritty substance coating several items including vehicles, plants and mailboxes in areas across Goose Creek. The Department of Health and Environmental Control investigated four incidents of emission of alumina dust. The first incident was reported on 3^rd September, two incidents on 16^th September and the final one on 30^th September.

A community meeting was held Oct. 9 to address the concerns raised by residents. However, many boycotted the meeting saying that the meeting did not provide satisfactory responses to the queries on the harmful impacts caused by the emissions.

The class-action lawsuit claimed that the alumina dust particulates caused several serious health issues to residents as well as pets. Although the lawsuit mentions only 15 names as plaintiffs, it represents the claims of all people living within a radius of seven miles of the smelter, said the attorney.

Last week, the EPA had ruled in favour of a petition calling for Century Aluminum to stop polluting the air.