Nuevo Leon to Impose Sanctions on Ternium Over Chemical Spill

The government of Nuevo Leon sanctioned steel company Ternium following a hazardous substance spill, according to the state’s Secretary of Environment. During the latest Nuevo Leon Informa briefing, Alfonso Martínez, the state’s Environment Minister, stated that the agency is waiting for a full incident report from Ternium to ensure full remediation of any damage to biodiversity caused by the spill. 

Martínez confirmed that the spill involved hydrochloric acid, acidic water, and ferrous chloride. The sanction will be based on the state’s Environmental Law and its regulations, with the goal of setting a precedent for accountability. “We are conducting visits and waiting for the requested information to arrive by May 6. We are working with CONAGUA and reviewing applicable legal frameworks. The sanction must be exemplary,” said Martínez.

As part of a broader update, the Environmental Prosecutor’s Office reported its activities between April 21 and May 2. The agency carried out 28 inspections, issued four suspensions for pollution or lack of authorization, conducted seven inspections supporting the state attorney’s office, suspended one unauthorized water well extraction, and completed 32 emission monitoring patrols.

Additionally, the government provided an update on the Bosques Ciudadanos reforestation project. A total of 686,709 trees have been planted to date, including 592,000 in mountainous areas of Monterrey, Santiago, Santa Catarina, Allende, and Montemorelos.

Armandina Valdez, Director, Air Quality Agency, reported that air quality levels across most monitoring stations are expected to remain acceptable this week. Outdoor activities are allowed for the general public, with continued monitoring advised for sensitive populations.