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Campbell Soup Company Admits to Exceeding Pollution Limits in Ohio River Discharges

RICHMOND,CA – Campbell Soup Company has acknowledged exceeding permitted discharge ⁣limits for pollutants⁢ into the⁣ ohio River,violating federal environmental regulations,according to reports and statements from environmental advocacy groups. The company’s wastewater ‍discharges, containing phosphorus and other pollutants, contribute to harmful algal blooms⁣ and threaten aquatic life in the western basin of Lake erie.

The ‌issue centers around the company’s manufacturing facility in Napoleon, Ohio. Between spring 2017 and ​spring 2021, Campbell’s averaged 5.5 million gallons of daily ⁣wastewater⁤ flow, below⁣ the 10 million gallon daily permit limit,⁤ but still contributing⁤ to overall phosphorus levels in the Maumee River watershed, which feeds into Lake Erie.

“It’s this nasty, green slime⁣ that covers ⁤a huge portion of the​ western part of Lake Erie,” said John Rumpler, a representative ⁢of the environmental groups concerned about ‌the discharges. “It is incredibly toxic to humans and wildlife and pets.”

The Environmental ⁤Protection agency (EPA) states that excessive phosphorus leads to algal overgrowth,depleting dissolved ​oxygen,producing harmful toxins,blocking⁢ sunlight for underwater ​plants,and degrading aquatic habitats. Sources of phosphorus pollution include fertilizers, urban runoff,​ failing septic systems, and discharges from wastewater treatment ⁤plants.

A ‍June 2023 ​technical report from⁢ the Ohio EPA detailed ‍the permitted discharge ⁣levels and Campbell’s ancient flows.The company has reportedly acknowledged the need to improve its pollution control measures.

“They know this is a problem,” Rumpler said. ‍”They know‌ that ⁣they need to solve it. It is a question of exactly how much money is going ‍to be involved and what do they need to do to ensure ⁢that this pollution comes down to where it ⁢needs to be.”

The long-term health ‌of Lake Erie has‍ been a concern for decades, with nutrient pollution – particularly phosphorus – identified as​ a major ⁤driver​ of harmful algal blooms. ⁢These ​blooms⁤ can impact drinking water supplies, recreational activities, and the overall‌ ecosystem.

Campbell’s has not yet released a detailed plan outlining specific steps to⁢ address the​ discharge ​issues.