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ILLEGAL DUMPING More drums of used oil found in Dandan
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Posted on Jun 22 2000
Some 24 55-gallon drums of illegally dumped used oil, most of which have contaminated the soil, were discovered in the property of businessman Joe Reyes in Dandan while they were clearing the area for a private hangar.
The Division of Environmental Quality is now conducting an investigation to find out those responsible for polluting the environment, as illegal dumping of used oil or any hazardous material carries a maximum fine of $25,000 per day for each day of the violation.
According to Kevin Castro, DEQ public information officer, the drums were discovered on June 13, 2000 and bore marks different from those sold commercially.
“They looked very old which suggest that they may have been dumped during the military occupation,” he added. DEQ will take samples of the contents of the drums for laboratory analysis.
Last weekend, a private company assisted by DEQ collected several 55-gallon drums of used oil dumped in five different locations on the island to prevent contamination of the environment.
Saipan-based PR Trading will then be responsible in shipping it to a recycling company in the Philippines.
DEQ discovered illegally dumped used oil in Finasisu, Marpi, Tanapag, Santa Lourdes and As Teo. In Finasisu and As Teo areas alone, the agency found 14 drums, some of which were already leaking.
The agency has expressed concern on the potential adverse effects of illegal dumping of used motor oil on the environment, specifically the possible contamination to groundwater and surface water. It may also destroy vegetation and soil fertility and endanger human health and wildlife.
DEQ has been carrying out educational campaigns to ensure that businesses do not simply throw their used oil anywhere and contaminate the environment. Four seminars on proper disposal of used oil have been held for auto shop workers on the island since October 1999.
