Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Takes Action Against Northern Iron: A Win for Environmental Justice

June 5, 2025 — In a significant move for environmental justice, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has initiated the process to revoke the operating permit of Northern Iron, a decision that underscores the agency's commitment to protecting public health and the environment. 

Northern Iron is in the Payne/Phalen neighborhood of Saint Paul.

This action comes on the heels of Northern Iron's consistent failure to provide crucial information required by state law, essential for the MPCA to adequately assess and write a permit that ensures compliance with air quality standards.

In a joint statement, Senate Environment, Climate, and Legacy Chair Senator Foung Hawj, Representative Liz Lee, and House Environment and Natural Resources Co-Chair Representative Peter Fischer expressed their satisfaction with the MPCA's decision, emphasizing the importance of holding Northern Iron accountable for its negligence.

"The MPCA is using its full authority to guarantee the health and safety of our community," the lawmakers declared, highlighting the urgency of the matter in light of recent rollbacks of environmental protections at the federal level.

The permit revocation process is particularly critical as it operates independently of ongoing district court proceedings concerning Northern Iron's violations of air quality standards. While the court focuses on enforcement actions for the company's past infractions, the permit revocation signifies a proactive approach by the MPCA to prevent further harm by ensuring that any future operations adhere to stringent health and safety regulations.

This decision aligns with the broader movement for inclusive community outreach and environmental justice, as advocates have long argued that marginalized communities often bear the brunt of industrial pollution and environmental degradation.

The MPCA's actions reflect a growing recognition of the need to prioritize public health and environmental safeguards, particularly in areas disproportionately affected by industrial activities. For years, residents near Northern Iron have raised concerns about pollution from the foundry, including soot accumulation on homes, respiratory issues, and skin irritations.

"This moment is a victory for families living near Northern Iron. Over the past year, single mothers and folks juggling multiple jobs have made sacrifices to shed light on Northern Iron's pollution. The people of the Eastside will not back down until Northern Iron is gone," said Melissa Lorentz of the Eastside Environmental Justice Group.

The situation surrounding Northern Iron serves as a reminder of the importance of regulatory oversight and the role of state agencies in enforcing environmental laws. The community's patience has been tested as Northern Iron has repeatedly delayed compliance, leading to increased scrutiny and calls for accountability. As the MPCA moves forward, the emphasis remains on ensuring that the health of residents and the integrity of the environment are not compromised.

The actions taken by the MPCA serve as a testament to the power of collective advocacy in holding corporations accountable for their environmental responsibilities. A full documentation of MPCA actions against Northern Iron can be found here.