The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued an administrative order on consent to Sims ARG Inc., a metal shredding and recycling facility located in Baltimore, Maryland. The EPA's action addresses the facility's failure to obtain the necessary permit under the federal Clean Air Act and the Maryland State Air Permitting Program.
This permit is crucial for limiting emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which contribute to ground-level ozone. Such pollution poses health risks, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma. Test data indicates that metal shredding operations can emit VOCs at rates up to 200 pounds per hour.
Adam Ortiz, EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator, stated: “For far too long, metal shredding and recycling facilities have polluted the air, especially in underserved communities in urban areas.” He emphasized that this action reflects the EPA's commitment to holding facilities accountable for failing to meet health-based air quality standards.
The order mandates that Sims ARG Inc. submit a complete permit application to the State of Maryland within 60 days from when the order takes effect.
