Laxmi Organic Industries has issued an official clarification regarding environmental compliance standards at its Lote facility. The company has taken a proactive stance to address recent media coverage and provide accurate information about its operational practices.

Company's Official Response

The chemical manufacturer has specifically refuted what it characterizes as misleading media comparisons regarding its environmental compliance standards. Laxmi Organic Industries' statement appears to be a direct response to recent coverage that may have raised questions about its operational practices at the Lote facility.

Environmental Compliance Focus

Laxmi Organic Industries has emphasized its commitment to maintaining proper environmental standards at its facilities. The clarification comes as part of the company's efforts to ensure accurate information is available to stakeholders and the public regarding its compliance measures.

Transparency and Proactive Approach

The company's response indicates its intention to address any misconceptions that may have arisen from recent media reports. By providing transparency regarding its environmental practices at the Lote facility, Laxmi Organic Industries demonstrates its proactive approach in managing environmental concerns.

In conclusion, Laxmi Organic Industries has addressed environmental compliance at its Lote facility and refuted misleading media comparisons regarding operational standards. This move underscores the company's commitment to transparency and responsible environmental management.

Laxmi Organic Industries Limited's Lote facility in Maharashtra is under political and regulatory scrutiny for using machinery acquired from Miteni S.p.A, a banned Italian chemical plant. The controversy centers around allegations of PFAS production and environmental concerns.

Machinery Origins and Acquisition

The equipment at Laxmi Organic's Lote facility was acquired through a strategic acquisition of Miteni's assets. After Miteni's bankruptcy, its assets including machinery, patents and technical know-how were auctioned in 2019, with Viva Lifesciences, a subsidiary of Laxmi Organic, emerging as the sole bidder.

Political Allegations and Regulatory Response

Maharashtra state legislator Rohit Pawar has alleged that the plant is emitting PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) using machinery procured from the banned Italian facility. Pawar questioned why regulatory permissions were granted, particularly when India does not yet have specific laws governing PFAS.

Maharashtra industries minister Uday Samant has sought a report from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB). The MPCB informed that PFAS have not been manufactured at the plant so far and issued a notice to the company. Authorities are verifying whether the imported machinery had necessary clearances.

Miteni's Toxic Legacy in Italy

Miteni operated in Vicenza, Italy, producing fluorochemicals that contaminated soil and water over decades. High concentrations of PFAS were detected in the plant's wastewater, with contamination spreading through groundwater and exposing an estimated 350,000 people to the chemicals via drinking water.

Company's Environmental Compliance Claims

Laxmi Organic Industries has issued a comprehensive clarification addressing the scrutiny, stating that its Lote facility operates in complete compliance with applicable Indian environmental, safety, and regulatory requirements. The company emphasized that all statutory approvals have been received since the facility's inception.

Facility Operations and Product Portfolio

The Lote facility operates as a multi-technology and multi-product site encompassing both fluorinated and non-fluorinated products. These products serve industries including semiconductors, defence, power grids, electric vehicles, medical devices, electronics, agrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals. The company maintains that fluorinated products are produced responsibly, adhering to established safety and environmental standards.

Laxmi Organic Industries, promoted by Harshvardhan Goenka who also sits on the board of Laxmi Organic Italy, continues to engage with stakeholders and government authorities while serving over 750 clients across key industries in more than 55 countries.