Controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2017
Scrutiny of smelter and mine-related air emissions
Kennecott's concentrators, power plant, and smelter were identified in cited environmental reporting as major sources of toxic releases in Utah. Public criticism has focused particularly on lead emissions and the broader air-quality effects of the integrated operation.
2012
Concerns about dust from tailings evaporation ponds
A citizen report to the Utah Department of Health raised concerns that dust from tailings evaporation ponds was reaching Interstate 80. The state's Environmental Epidemiology Program recommended additional study to identify and measure materials carried by the dust.
Historic groundwater contamination and remediation
Historical mining practices associated with the Kennecott South Zone contaminated groundwater in southwest Salt Lake County. The affected area covered approximately 80 square miles. Cleanup has involved state and federal oversight, groundwater treatment, a reverse-osmosis facility, and extensive land and waste remediation.