Oyo State Govt Shuts Down Tyre Recycling Company Over Air Pollution

Joy ChukwuFebruary 10, 20241 Mins read721

Due to environmental pollution, the Oyo State Government has closed down Shri-Balaji Industry Limited, a company that recycles waste tyres to produce pyrolysis oil, carbon black, and steel wire.

The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, announced this decision during the week in Ibadan, the state capital, and emphasised the government’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws.

Mogbonjubola stated that the company had violated environmental regulations since 2016, mainly through harmful emissions from pyrolysis oil extraction.

He also revealed that the extraction process of pyrolysis oil was emitting unhealthy emissions, resulting in flora being sighted both within and outside of the facility, along with visible carbon black stains.

Ministry officials conducted routine inspections and identified hazardous operational practices and inadequate safety measures, including the absence of personal protective equipment for workers and poor engagement with solid waste contractors.

The facility also failed to implement recommended mitigation measures, such as hiring a certified safety officer and maintaining proper housekeeping.

Despite previous sanctions, including a fine of N1.5 million, which the company had refused to pay, it persisted in non-compliance with regulatory directives.

Mogbonjubola expressed concern over the disregard for environmental standards among various industries and corporate entities in the state.