UK plastic manufacturer could face legal action over toxic emissions
The UK Environment Agency is considering legal action against Huntsman Polyurethanes for failing to control carcinogenic benzene emissions at its Teesside plant. Records indicate that emissions rose significantly after the company changed its emission-reduction process in 2023.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing regulatory challenges in managing toxic industrial waste and the potential health risks posed to local communities by the petrochemical industry.
Huntsman Polyurethanes’ chemical plant is in Teesside, north-east England. Photograph: Handout Huntsman Polyurethanes’ chemical plant is in Teesside, north-east England. Photograph: Handout Chemical industry UK plastic manufacturer could face legal action over toxic emissions Exclusive: Environment Agency is considering whether to prosecute Huntsman Polyurethanes over emissions of carcinogenic benzene
Prefer the Guardian on Google A plastic manufacturer in the north of England is facing potential legal action over emissions of benzene, a carcinogenic chemical with no safe level, the Guardian can reveal.
The Environment Agency (EA) is considering taking legal action against Huntsman Polyurethanes in Teesside for a potential breach of licence, which is a criminal offence.
Campaigners say it has shone a light on the toxic nature of the global plastics industry and that workers and the local community have been put at risk.
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