Double your impact
by making a gift during
Giving Days May 7 & 8
For over a decade, the Adams Scrap Recycling facility in West Greenville has been a source of fires, toxic air pollution and repeated permit violations, leaving the surrounding community to bear the brunt of its environmental and health impacts. Residents have repeatedly sought help, citing health problems, displacement and a lack of accountability from both the facility and regulators.
Adams Scrap is now seeking a new air construction permit to operate on-site metal shredders. However, this equipment has already been installed and operated without a permit for years, raising serious concerns about the facility’s compliance with environmental laws and the adequacy of oversight by the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES).
This permit process represents a critical moment to address the long-standing environmental injustices faced by West Greenville. The draft permit, as it currently stands, falls short of the protections this community deserves. SCDES must prioritize the health and safety of this overburdened neighborhood and ensure that any permit issued holds Adams Scrap fully accountable for its actions.
1. Attend the Public Hearing
On Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 6:00 pm (doors open at 5:30 pm), a public hearing will be held at the West Greenville Community Center at 8 Rochester St.
This is a formal hearing to accept verbal and written comments. There will be no Q&A, but your comments will be recorded. Please note that individuals with disabilities who wish to participate in the hearing or review the proceedings should contact Monica Taylor at 803-898-7678 or by email at Monica.Taylor@des.sc.gov as soon as possible to discuss any auxiliary aids or services needed.
2. Submit Written Comments
Written comments can be provided through the SCDES Public Notice Portal, by email to AirPNComments@des.sc.gov, or by mail to:
Bureau of Air Quality
Attn: Air Permitting Division Director
2600 Bull Street
Columbia, SC 29201
Please include the permit number in your written comment: CP-50000386 v1.0.
Your voice is most effective when it's authentically yours. We encourage you to share personal stories or experiences about why this issue is important to you. To help, we've drafted some talking points you may wish to incorporate:
Health Impacts: Emissions from metal shredders contain particulate matter, hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), all of which are damaging to human health. SCDES should deny the permit unless it fully protects the community from further harm.
Environmental Justice: West Greenville is an underrepresented and at-risk community that has endured years of pollution. SCDES should prioritize the health and safety of this overburdened neighborhood and prevent further harm from Adams Scrap’s unlawful and unpermitted pollution.
Permit Violations: Adams Scrap has repeatedly violated permits and operated illegally. SCDES must hold them accountable and enforce stronger protections.
Inadequate Protections: The draft permit does not adequately protect the community. SCDES should impose the most protective criteria and requirements to prevent further harm.
