Tesla Inc. is facing a new lawsuit in California, accusing the company of repeatedly mishandling hazardous waste at its facilities. The lawsuit was filed by the district attorneys of 25 California counties, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Alameda. These counties claim that Tesla has been improperly handling, transporting, and disposing hazardous materials at up to 101 sites across the state.
The hazardous materials involved include oil, lead acid batteries, antifreeze, and diesel fuel. According to Reuters, the counties allege that Tesla has been violating California’s environmental laws for years. They are seeking an injunction to force Tesla to properly dispose of its waste and are also requesting civil penalties, which could amount to as much as $70,000 per violation per day.
This is not the first time Tesla has faced legal issues regarding hazardous waste. In 2019, the company settled with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency over violations at its Fremont factory. In 2022, Tesla also reached a settlement with the EPA over separate violations of the Clear Air Act at its Fremont facility.
It is worth noting that Tesla dissolved its media relations team in 2020 and has not responded to requests for comment regarding this new lawsuit.
Challenges in Waste Management
Tesla’s handling of hazardous waste has come under scrutiny once again. The lawsuit filed by 25 California counties accuses the electric-vehicle maker of improper handling, transportation, and disposal of hazardous materials. This includes substances such as oil, lead acid batteries, antifreeze, and diesel fuel.
The counties argue that Tesla has been consistently violating California’s environmental laws over the years. As a result, they are seeking an injunction to ensure proper waste disposal by Tesla and are also pursuing civil penalties. The potential penalties could reach up to $70,000 per violation per day.
Previous Environmental Violations
This is not the first time Tesla has faced legal consequences for its handling of hazardous waste. Back in 2019, the company settled with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency over violations occurring at its Fremont factory. Additionally, in 2022, Tesla reached a separate settlement with the EPA concerning Clear Air Act violations at the same facility.
Tesla’s Response
Despite these allegations, Tesla has yet to comment on the lawsuit. In 2020, the company dissolved its media relations team, making it difficult to obtain an official statement from the company.
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