Criminal suit 1002/03IUED vs Makhteshim-Agan Ltd.,
re toxic air pollution at Ramat Hovav
In July 2003, IUED filed a criminal complaint in the Beer Sheba Magistrates Court targeting Makhteshim-Agan Ltd ("Makhteshim") and its executive officer.Makhteshim is a world leader in the manufacture of herbicides and pesticides, with annual net profits reaching over $100 million.
Environment Ministry records show Makhteshim frequently exceeded permitted emissions of hazardous substances for the period 1999-2002 at its industrial plant in the Ramat Hovav Industrial Zone.
Among the recorded exceedances: 18,700% the permitted level of methylisobutylketone and 47,555% the permitted level of dichloroethylene, both substances which cause significant damage to the nervous system, liver and kidneys.
Court hearings, which began in May 2006, are proceeding.
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