According to local media reports, a fire that broke out on Thursday at the facility of the Canadian metal recycling company American Iron & Metal Company Inc. (AIM) in Eastern Montreal has drawn new attention to the company's long-standing environmental problems.
The fire, which produced fetid smoke visible for miles, has significantly affected the air quality throughout the city. The authorities stressed that the incident is part of a broader pattern of non-compliance.
Permits revoked during fire
On the same morning as the fire, the Montreal City Government sent AIM an official notification of the revocation of operating permits. Officials clarified that the time was random. The company has been given 30 days to comply with air emissions standards. Failure to comply with this requirement will lead to a complete shutdown of its activities.
Chantal Rouleau, the minister responsible for the Greater Montreal area, criticized the company's management, saying that it constantly does not comply with the rules.
Ongoing legal dispute
The conflict between the Montreal authorities and AIM began in October 2024, when the city suspended a permit related to PCB emissions. In response, AIM filed a lawsuit to overturn the decision. Subsequent discussions led the city authorities to warn that additional permits could be revoked due to ongoing environmental violations.
Company reaction
AIM said in a statement that its teams are fully mobilized to manage the fire situation. The company also confirmed that it has received communications from the City of Montreal regarding permits and is currently evaluating options for responding to the incident.
