The investigation into the release of perfluorinated materials in Pierre-Bénite (Rhône), broadcast on May 12 in ;Correspondent on France 2, continues to make waves. This Wednesday, the NGO Our business to all filed two “environmental referrals” against Arkema France and Elkem Silicones France, “for having exceeded the authorized pollution thresholds” by the regulations of ICPEs (Installation classified for the protection of the environment) in the Rhône valley, reports the AFP.

This procedure is based, according to the association, on 50 certificates of non-compliance and 5 formal notices received by Elkem from 2017 to 2021 and 66 non-compliances, six major incidents from 2017 to 2022, and eight prefectural orders of residences received by Arkema.

“In view of the repeated offenses and the serious environmental, industrial and health risks likely” these companies “exposing the inhabitants of Greater Lyon”, the NGO requests an “emergency procedure” and asks the Lyon prosecutor “to seize the judge freedoms and detention in order to put an end to illegal pollution”, under article L. 216-13 of the Environmental Code.

Prefect and elected officials have taken measures

In his report, an analysis of water, air, soil and breast milk samples in Pierre-Bénite, which is home to several companies in the “Chemical Valley”, shows perfluorinated levels above different thresholds. These substances are a family of synthetic chemical compounds, suspected of having an impact on health.

After these revelations, Jérôme Moroge, mayor of Pierre-Bénite, filed a complaint against X for endangering the lives of others. The prefect of the Rhône, Pascal Mailhos issued two decrees in order to remove the controls of perfluorinated substances in the liquid discharges of Arkema, but also of Daikin.

For its part, the ARS, which will set up water monitoring by the summer, “does not recommend restricting the consumption of supply water” in this sector. As for the director of the Arkema site in Pierre-Bénite, Pierre Clouzier, he affirms that the company “respects the regulations in force”.