A MONRE delegation visited the FHS complex on September 8 to inspect the company’s commitments to address the consequences of its toxic waste discharge.
The company said its plan to improve the waste treatment system is being implemented and agreed not to put a blast furnace into operation if treated water from the furnace fails to meet standards.
FHS has also installed a fish tank at the wastewater treatment facility where treated wastewater will be diluted to breed fish as a reference to assess the quality of wastewater.
For ordinary solid waste and toxic waste, FHS has found a company qualified to treat and transport the waste, and will proceed with the treatment after a contract is signed.
Minister Tran Hong Ha recognised Formosa’s efforts to fulfil its commitments while stressing that green development is the trend of the 21st century and any industry that contributes to destroying the environment will not be tolerated.
He added that care for and investment in the environment means protecting long-term development and noted that FHS must treat its waste in line with international practices.
In late June, FHS accepted responsibility for the mass fish deaths which occurred in four central Vietnamese provinces.
The disaster damaged about 400 hectares of coral and affected over 260,000 people who earn their living by working in sea-related industries.
The company pledged to provide compensation of over VND11.5 trillion (US$500 million), which will be used to support local fishermen in changing their jobs and restoring the polluted maritime environment.
It also vowed to deal with shortcomings and limitations in waste and wastewater treatment.
