Dirty Dozen Report Released
New Report Flags Industrial Facilities of Growing Concern in South Sound: Communities for a Healthy Bay Identifies Ongoing Pollution, Gaps in Enforcement, and Environmental Injustice
Tacoma, WA (May 20, 2025) — As EPA oversight stalls and stormwater pollution rises, a new watchdog report names 12 South Sound industrial sites putting clean water, Tribal lands, and community health at risk. Communities for a Healthy Bay (CHB) today released its Dirty Dozen report, highlighting industrial facilities in the South Sound with persistent patterns of permit exceedances and regulatory concern. These sites—operating in areas already impacted by legacy contamination—raise serious questions about enforcement, environmental justice, and public health in Tacoma and the surrounding region.
“Clean air and clean water are not optional. They’re basic human rights,” said Melissa Malott, Executive Director of CHB. “And right now, those rights are being violated.”
Among the report’s key concerns:
- Only 16 of 116 local facilities met permit expectations over the past five years under Washington’s Industrial Stormwater General Permit.
- There is a clear lapse in enforcement and oversight despite repeated exceedances.
- Some facilities operate directly on or adjacent to Superfund sites, compounding pollution risks.
- Surrounding communities facing disproportionate environmental and health burdens—particularly Tribal lands and historically underserved neighborhoods.
The full Dirty Dozen report is available at www.healthybay.org/dirty-dozen
While some local operators demonstrate that responsible, environmentally sound practices are possible, this report underscores that chronic pollution is not a given but rather the result of choices and oversight failures.
“This isn’t just about regulations and permits—it’s about community health, clean water, and accountability,” added Malott. “These facilities are polluting in plain sight, often without meaningful consequences.”
Community Accountability When Federal Protections Fall Short
CHB’s work fills critical gaps in environmental protection. The organization monitors industrial practices, engages the public in policy decisions, and ensures community voices—especially those most affected—are heard.
“Our region shouldn’t be treated like a sacrifice zone,” said Malott. “We’re calling on regulators to step up enforcement, for industry to take full responsibility, and for the public to stay informed and involved.”
The Dirty Dozen is not a blacklist. It’s a snapshot of where increased scrutiny is needed, and a tool to empower community action, legal accountability, and policy reform.
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About Communities for a Healthy Bay
Communities for a Healthy Bay is a community-based, environmental non-profit whose mission is to engage people in the cleanup, restoration and protection of Commencement Bay and surrounding waters of the South Sound. Through advocacy, legal action, and community engagement, CHB works to ensure a sustainable and thriving ecosystem for future generations. To learn more about CHB, visit www.healthybay.org.