IPNEWS-MONROVIA:The Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia (EPA) has lifted the recent halt order placed on the management of SSS Private Limited after the alcoholic beverage producer fulfilled all noncompliance requirements outlined by the Agency, consistent with the Environmental Protection and Management Law (EPML) of Liberia.

The alcoholic beverage producer was shut down by the EPA on June 5, 2020 as a result of multiple environmental violations including a fine of US$ 1,000 for restoration purposes.

The company violated several provisions of the EPML including Part III Section 6; by operating an industrial establishment without a valid environmental permit and Section 26, Count 1, failing to notify the Agency of major changes relative to the change in the operation of the project for which its permit was issued among other things.

SSS Private Limited also imported and utilized chemical substances without authorization in violation of Section 57 of the EPML and discharged effluent directly into the environment in violation of Section 57 of the EPML.

To help bring the company to full compliance, the EPA SSS worked with the management of SSS Private to put in place all corrective measures including re-engagement with the EPA’s Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) process, which led to the company renewing and obtaining all of its permits needed for operation.

In consideration of the SSS Private’s adherence to meet all of the noncompliance issues outlined in the halt order as well as the company’s willingness to remain compliant with the environmental laws of Liberia, the EPA is pleased to inform the general public that SSS Private, Ltd. has met all environmental requirements to reopen and continue its operation of producing alcoholic beverages in Liberia as outline below:

1. Obtained a chemical importation, transport and handling license;
2. Redirected its effluent discharges into a septic system;
3. Obtained an environmental permit for its beverage plant;
4. Paid US$1,000 for the restoration
5. Hired the services of an EPA certified hazardous waste service provider;
6. Installed a modern automatic machine or system for its alcoholic beverage production;
7. Willing to open its facility for EPA’s routine compliance monitoring.

In conclusion, the Agency wants to use this medium to congratulate the Management of SSS Private for the effort made thus far and pledge to maintain a sustainable working relationship with the Management. At the same time, the EPA encourages all alcoholic beverage producers to avoid using the manual system for their production.