The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reached a settlement with Grimmel Industries, Inc., addressing alleged violations of the Clean Air Act and the Maine State Implementation Plan at its scrap metal shredding facility in Topsham, Maine. The agreement requires Grimmel to pay a penalty of $42,613 and submit a permit application to the State of Maine for its shredding operations to enhance compliance with federal and state regulations.

"Having permits that restrict emissions are incredibly important to keeping communities in-the-know and protecting the environment around us," stated EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Facilities like Grimmel Industries' that emit air pollution must follow the law to ensure that local neighborhoods don't face unnecessary air quality burdens."

Grimmel Industries operates a scrap metal shredding facility in Topsham, where EPA alleged it failed to obtain the necessary air emissions license for its shredder, which controls volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emissions. Additionally, it was alleged that Grimmel did not secure a Clean Air Act Title V operating permit required for major air pollution sources in Maine.

According to EPA findings, Grimmel's lack of proper permits resulted in incorrect air emission limits during inspection. Proper permitting is essential for regulators like EPA and state agencies to verify compliance with environmental laws.

The Clean Air Act (CAA), enacted by Congress, aims to protect public health by regulating air pollution from various sources. It mandates states adopt enforceable plans ensuring National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) are met locally. VOC emissions can lead to ground-level ozone formation and NAAQS violations for ozone, posing risks such as cancer and respiratory issues.