Constellium Muscle Shoals falls under scrutiny: Fined $75,000 for harmful environmental practices

Constellium Muscle Shoals, a prominent player in the aluminium industry, has reached a settlement with the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, agreeing to pay a $75,000 civil fine. The settlement addresses alleged violations related to inspections and record-keeping at its facility in Muscle Shoals during an April 20-21 inspection.

According to ADEM inspectors, Constellium lacked records of mandatory inspections for an "afterburner" air pollution control device, and mandatory labels on its melter furnaces were purportedly concealed behind cabinets. Despite Constellium's disagreement with these allegations, the company opted for a negotiated settlement to resolve the issue.

Constellium clarified that the piece of equipment referred to as an afterburner was not an air pollution control device, thus negating the need for inspections. Additionally, the company stated that the mandatory labels were situated between two cabinets but were not intentionally hidden and have since been relocated to a more visible location.

It's important to note that Constellium Muscle Shoals, a key contributor to the aluminium industry, remains committed to compliance with its operating permit. The company, known for providing aluminium sheets to the automotive and packaging sectors, stands as one of the largest aluminium recyclers globally, with the capacity to recycle an impressive equivalent of 20 billion aluminium cans annually.

While regulatory compliance is crucial, it's commendable that Constellium Muscle Shoals proactively addressed the alleged violations through a negotiated settlement. This emphasizes the industry's commitment to maintaining environmental standards and continuous improvement. 

If recycled aluminium is your forte, please have a look at AL Circle's special report, World Recycled Aluminium Market Analysis.