Tesla has been officially ordered to halt toxic emissions at its Fremont factory in the San Francisco Bay Area. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is planning to issue a written abatement order this week, citing over 100 violations in the last five years. These violations potentially released hundreds of kilograms of illegal air pollutants, posing significant health risks to local communities.
Particularly problematic is the facility’s paint shop operations, which have been identified as a major source of emissions. The district has demanded that Tesla hire an independent consultant to develop and implement a plan to stop these toxic emissions and ensure compliance with all air quality regulations. Philip Fine, the district’s chief executive, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the ongoing violations at Tesla’s Fremont facility pose a significant threat to public health and air quality in the surrounding community.
This order comes as Tesla faces other challenges, including multiple recalls of its Cybertruck due to issues with trim parts and windshield wipers. Additionally, a California judge recently fined Tesla $1.5 million as part of a civil lawsuit for the improper management of hazardous waste at several service centers, energy centers, and another factory.
Prosecutors noted that Tesla has cooperated with the investigation and has taken steps to improve compliance with environmental laws. How Tesla responds to the directive to cease toxic emissions will be critical, as they must take swift and effective measures to protect the environment and improve air quality.
