The Massachusetts Attorney General's Office (AGO) has filed a lawsuit against Feedback Earth, Inc., a Grafton-based company, alleging that it emits noxious odors from its facility, affecting nearby residents. The AGO states that the company processes food waste into animal feed and has reportedly violated several environmental permits under the state's air and solid waste management laws.
In a statement obtained by the Massachusetts Government's official website, Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell voiced that, "Every community deserves fresh air and responsible neighbors. No one should be unable to enjoy their yard, walk their neighborhood, or open their windows because a company, even one with an important mission, is prioritizing its business over complying with reasonable and sound environmental laws and regulations that protect the health of our residents."
The AGO's lawsuit seeks a preliminary injunction to address the ongoing odors affecting local neighborhoods. The Suffolk Superior Court is being asked to implement compliance measures for Feedback Earth and provide relief to residents and businesses experiencing these issues.
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) Commissioner Bonnie Heiple highlighted the significance of converting food waste into animal feed for the state's waste management and climate targets, stating "Ensuring that companies operate in ways that protect the health of their neighbors and the environment is of the utmost importance, and the state looks forward to putting an end to the conditions causing these odor issues," in a statement obtained by Mass.gov. Allegations against Feedback Earth include improper storage of food waste, processing spoiled food, and changing its operations without the necessary notification to MassDEP, contributing to the odor problem. The issues reportedly intensified when the company started processing lobster shells without MassDEP permission.
Residents have submitted affidavits in support of the AGO's motion for preliminary injunction, documenting their experiences with the odors and the company's disputed methods of addressing complaints. This includes allegations of changing the complaint reporting hotline number and discouraging the use of the hotline established by MassDEP. The lawsuit seeks not only an immediate end to the odors but also a permanent injunction against the nuisance and civil penalties for Feedback Earth's alleged violations.
The case is being managed by Assistant Attorneys General Zeus Smith and Jillian Riley from AG Campbell’s Environmental Protection Division, with assistance from several MassDEP officials.
