Unlawful export of hazardous material leads to $5000 fine

TORONTO, Ont. -- June 8, 2011 -- Following an investigation conducted by Environment Canada, Ms. Xiao Xia (Amy) Li of Markham, Ontario, has accepted responsibility for failing to take all reasonable care to ensure that Monarch Metal Recycling Inc, a company in which she was director, exported hazardous waste in compliance with the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999.  

As provided under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, an Environmental Protection Alternative Measures (EPAM) Agreement has been negotiated, with Ms. Li. The agreement contains measures to be taken by Ms. Li, including making a voluntary payment of $5,000.00 to the Environmental Damages Fund.

In August 2008, Monarch Metal Recycling Inc. exported a sea container to Hong Kong. Authorities in Hong Kong inspected the container upon arrival and found that it contained lead acid batteries and cathode ray tube monitors, two items not accepted by Hong Kong, under the terms of the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Waste and their Disposal. The container was returned to Canada, and referred to Environment Canada for inspection. An investigation was initiated by Environment Canada and revealed violations of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 for which charges were laid.  

Once the court is satisfied that Ms. Li has complied with the terms of the EPAM agreement, all charges will be dismissed. For more information on EPAM agreements, please visit: CEPA Environmental Registry.

The Environmental Damages Fund was created in 1995 to provide courts with a mechanism to direct that monetary penalties and settlements be invested for the repair of the actual harm done to the environment. It helps ensure the "polluter pays" principle is applied and that polluters take responsibility for their actions.

The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, aims to prevent pollution, and protect the environment and human health by preventing and managing risks posed by toxic and other harmful substances. The Act also manages the environmental and human health impacts through provisions related to biotechnology; marine pollution; disposal at sea; vehicle, engine and equipment emissions; fuels; hazardous wastes; and environmental emergencies.

For more information on the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, please visit: CEPA Environmental Registry.

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