CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The Hankook & Company ES America battery plant has been found to be in “significant noncompliance” for violating their average monthly limit on the discharge of lead in Clarksville for the months of June, July, August and September 2025.
A published public notice cited Section 13-705 of the City of Clarksville code and said Hankook has announced changes to their wastewater treatment to improve the quality of the discharge.
Hankook responds to lead discharge complaint
In a statement to Clarksville Now, Hankook & Company ES America, formerly AtlasBX, said that in the summer of 2025, their team observed the irregular lead concentrations in certain parts of their treatment system.
“Shortly thereafter, and in partnership with local authorities, our team implemented immediate corrective actions to mitigate the issue. We value our community and our role in environmental sustainability, and we remain committed to maintaining compliance with all environmental regulations,” said the statement.
| PREVIOUSLY: AtlasBX battery plant hit with multiple TDEC violations, leading to company changes
Plans to improve quality of wastewater discharge
Hankook said their action plan consists of several processes.
“We’ve strengthened our treatment and cleaning procedures to enhance filtration of unnecessary materials. Additionally, we’re considering new chemical formulas that can help prevent future issues. In partnership with local authorities, we continue to integrate new solutions into our operations and will monitor to ensure compliance with all environmental regulations,” the statement said.
Hankook added that during their latest submission to the city on Tuesday, they were in compliance for the month of October.
The City of Clarksville declined to comment, as they have not yet seen the full report, according to city spokesperson Jimmy Settle.
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