Rio Tinto Fer et Titane Inc. Fined $2 Million for Violating Environmental Regulations
Montreal, January 13, 2025 – Rio Tinto Fer et Titane Inc. (RTFT), a subsidiary of global mining giant Rio Tinto, has been ordered to pay a $2 million fine for violating the Fisheries Act and the Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations.
The charges stem from an investigation by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) that found RTFT’s Sorel-Tracy, Quebec facility had repeatedly discharged wastewater containing elevated levels of nickel, copper, and zinc into the St. Lawrence River between 2015 and 2021.
According to the ECCC investigation, the discharges exceeded authorized limits and posed a potential risk to fish and aquatic life in the river. The violations were attributed to inadequate wastewater treatment and maintenance issues at the facility.
“Protecting our water resources is essential for the health of our communities and ecosystems,” said the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Steven Guilbeault. “This fine sends a clear message that polluters will be held accountable for their actions.”
In addition to the fine, RTFT has been ordered to take measures to prevent future violations, including upgrading its wastewater treatment system and implementing a compliance management plan. The company has also been placed on probation for three years, during which time it must report regularly on its compliance efforts.
RTFT spokesperson Simon Letendre said the company takes the charges seriously and is committed to improving its environmental performance. “We are taking immediate steps to address the violations and implement the required measures,” he said.
The Canadian Environmental Law Association (CELA) welcomed the fine and probation order, calling them “an important step towards ensuring that companies are held responsible for environmental harm.”
“These violations posed a significant threat to the St. Lawrence River and its aquatic life,” said CELA lawyer Anne-Marie Leblanc. “This case demonstrates that the government is willing to take action against polluters, even large multinational corporations.”
The fine is one of the largest ever imposed under the Fisheries Act, reflecting the severity of the violations and the potential environmental risks involved. It serves as a reminder that companies must comply with environmental regulations and that polluters will be held accountable for their actions.
Rio Tinto Fer et Titane inc. is ordered to pay $2 million for violating the Fisheries Act and the Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations
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