UK plastic manufacturer could face legal action over toxic emissions

The Guardian World Tuesday 04 August 2026, 05:00 UTC By Pippa Neill Environment reporter 1 min read

Key Points

Exclusive: Environment Agency is considering whether to prosecute Huntsman Polyurethanes over emissions of carcinogenic benzeneA plastic manufacturer in the north of England is facing potential legal action over emissions of benzene, a carcinogenic chemical with no safe level, the Guardian can reveal. The Environment Agency (EA) is considering taking legal action against Huntsman Polyurethanes in Teesside for a potential breach of licence, which is a criminal offence.

Exclusive: Environment Agency is considering whether to prosecute Huntsman Polyurethanes over emissions of carcinogenic benzene

A plastic manufacturer in the north of England is facing potential legal action over emissions of benzene, a carcinogenic chemical with no safe level, the Guardian can reveal.

The Environment Agency (EA) is considering taking legal action against Huntsman Polyurethanes in Teesside for a potential breach of licence, which is a criminal offence.

UK (LOCATION) Exclusive: Environment Agency (ORG) Huntsman Polyurethanes (ORG) England (LOCATION) Guardian (ORG) The Environment Agency (ORG) EA (ORG) Teesside (LOCATION)

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