Some residents of Georgetown have filed a lawsuit against the International Paper Company in Georgetown after complaints that the chemicals released by the plant cause health damage.
The Bell Legal Group of Georgetown filed the lawsuit against the International Paper Company on July 31 in a federal court in Charleston. The Sun News of Myrtle Beach reports the group filed on behalf of four plantiffs alleging the paper company knowingly released dioxins, a highly toxic chemical that could cause cancer, and other hazardous materials that are harmful to the environment and the health of animals and humans.
“International Paper of Georgetown Mill, we’re aware of the lawsuit that’s been filed by Ed Bell. We do not comment on specifics of pending litigation; however, we will fight the allegations vigorously to uphold our company’s reputation,” says spokesperson Susan McPherson.
McPherson says although she cannot comment on the specific case, International Paper will remain committed.
“We do have a long-standing committment to the community to operate the mill in a safe, and environmentally responsible manner and we will continue to do that,” says McPherson.
The suit says the company did not report the amount of toxic chemicals the mill released, and has “devalued” the plantiffs’ property. In 2003, the Environmental Protection Agency granted the plant an award for environmental management and performance.
