In a significant environmental case, an aerospace company has made a financial contribution of over £1 million following a pollution incident that resulted in the death of approximately 1,000 fish in Redditch, West Midlands. The incident, which occurred in 2018, was linked to an issue with the surface water drainage system at the Mettis Aerospace metal installation site.
According to the Environment Agency (EA), the problem led to a solution of caustic and sodium aluminate leaking into an unprotected surface water drain and subsequently into an adjacent watercourse. Mettis Aerospace has accepted responsibility for the pollution incident.
Rather than facing prosecution, the company offered an Enforcement Undertaking (EU), which is a voluntary measure that allows businesses to make amends for offences committed. The EU includes a range of actions, such as donations to environmental enhancement projects in Redditch and the Black Country, totalling £379,500, as well as initial pollution clean-up costs of £111,268 and payment of the EA’s investigation costs of £9,324.
Additionally, the company has committed £504,240 towards site infrastructure improvements, training, and management system development and certification. The EU also includes a loss of amenity compensation payment of £7,000 to local charities and £13,026 for the EA’s costs in assessing compliance with the agreement.
An EA spokesperson emphasised the importance of protecting the environment and taking action against those who damage or threaten it. While prosecution remains an option for the most serious cases, Enforcement Undertakings are an effective enforcement tool that allows businesses to rectify their mistakes and contribute to environmental improvements.
The spokesperson explained that these agreements enable companies to become more compliant and prevent repeat offending by improving their procedures, helping ensure future compliance with environmental requirements.
This case serves as a reminder of the need for businesses to prioritise environmental responsibility and take proactive measures to prevent pollution incidents that can have significant consequences for local ecosystems and wildlife.