SoCal Warehouses Could Be Fined Over $10,000 For Pollution Violations

Los Angeles warehouses could be forced to pay more than $10,000 in fines for failing to reduce pollution.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District announced the new rule Wednesday following reports that only 55% of Southern California warehouses have complied with the agency's 2021 requirement that warehouses with more than 100,000 square feet reduce nitrogen oxide and diesel emissions and their exposure to nearby communities.

“Time is up for those not complying with our rule,” said Wayne Nastri, South Coast AQMD's executive officer. “Owners and operators of warehouses have known about these deadlines for two years. Communities near these facilities deserve to breathe clean air and our enforcement teams will work quickly to ensure that the facilities come into compliance as quickly as possible.”

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Of the 2,000 warehouses subject to compliance, AQMD anticipated 2021’s rule to reduce smog-forming emissions by 10% to 15% from warehouse-related sources.

Advocates for the regulations have pushed for air quality regulations amid growing health concerns from communities surrounding the warehouses.

“I think people don't really understand the urgency,” Colton resident and The Air I Breathe project manager Gem Montes said. “I really don't think people understand the impact of PM 2.5.”

PM 2.5 refers to particle pollution from fine particulates, which can cause asthma, heart disease and low-birth weights when they reach unhealthy levels.

Some advocates for pollution regulation think more work needs to be done from the Air Quality Control District to help warehouse companies adapt to changing requirements.

“We need more companies in lower income communities of color to think away from just a mitigation fee, and we hope that the South Coast Air Quality Management District can help,” said Yassi Kavezade, Sierra Club’s California field manager.

She pointed to areas like the Inland Empire, which are less versed in piloting new infrastructure and technology.

Furthermore, Montes said the South Coast AQMD leaves out many nearby communities that will end up still getting polluted. She said regulations need to be broader spread throughout California and not left to a patchwork system.

“Pollution is transient,” Montes said. “So, if they don't implement it at the other air basins... Then what's that going to look like at the end of the day?”

To report air quality complaints like odors, dust or other air contaminants, call the AQMD’s tip line at (800) 288-7664.