Jamiesfeast – A civil case accusing Tesla Inc. of mishandling hazardous waste at its car service centers, energy centers, and factory has been settled, as ordered by a California judge. Multiple county district attorneys announced that Tesla will be required to pay $1.5 million in this settlement.
Several district attorneys offices in California have filed a complaint in San Joaquin County. The complaint alleges the illegal disposal of hazardous waste and violations of laws pertaining to the storage and management of the waste.
Tesla did not immediately respond to an email from the Associated Press requesting comment. According to the district attorneys’ statements, Tesla cooperated with the investigation and took steps to enhance compliance with the laws that were brought to its attention by the prosecutors.
San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas emphasized the importance of acknowledging the negative environmental impact associated with the production and maintenance of electric vehicles, despite their positive role in environmental improvement.
Tesla operates around 57 car service centers and 18 solar energy facilities in California. Additionally, the company manufactures electric vehicles in the city of Fremont, located in the San Francisco Bay Area.
The settlement encompasses a payment of $1.3 million in civil penalties, along with an additional $200,000 to cover the investigation costs, employee training, and third-party waste audits.