Philippine steelmaker SteelAsia Manufacturing Corporation announced that it has voluntarily suspended operations at its scrap metal recycling plant in Calaque after the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) ordered the company to take responsibility for 23 containers of zinc dust allegedly exported by Zannwann International Trading Corp. The company said that since it had nothing to do with the shipment in question, it was not responsible for the destruction of the materials, but nevertheless suspended operations to maintain transparency and ensure a thorough review. inspections. The containers initially rejected by Indonesia at the end of September were returned to Zannvann, but PNRI identified SteelAsia as the source.
Highlights
- SteelAsia argued that the dust did not originate from its operations: it produces reinforced steel bars, not zinc dust by-products for export.
- She confirmed that she does not have any technical capabilities or licenses. for the management of radioactive waste.
- All scrap metal is subjected to radiation testing, and none of them have ever given positive results. Its radiation monitoring equipment is calibrated under the supervision of the PNRI.
- The company stressed that the inappropriate involvement exposes its Kalaki industrial zone to the risk of economic downturn and job losses, as well as deterring investment.
Suspension of the Kalaki scrap metal processing plant and the consequences
Although SteelAsia suspended operations at its Kalaka scrap metal recycling plant, the company denied any contamination. The company described the PNRI order as "illegal, unfounded and unscientific", warning of a potentially widespread impact on industry and employment in the Calaca zone.
If the storage order is enforced, SteelAsia warned of immediate consequences: the shutdown of its flagship scrap recycling facility, a chill in investment in the Philippine steel sector and disruptions in the recycling construction industry industry.
