U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and City of West Bend Announce Start of Asbestos and E-Waste Cleanup at Former 5R Processors[...]

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and City of West Bend Announce Start of Asbestos and E-Waste Cleanup at Former 5R Processors Facility

November 1, 2024

CHICAGO (November 1, 2024) - This week, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency began removing asbestos-contaminated debris at the former 5R Processors e-waste recycling and brake parts facility at 133 West Oak St. in West Bend, Wisconsin. The agency anticipates the cleanup will take approximately 5-6 weeks to complete. As the asbestos is removed, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources will evaluate options to address electronic waste in conjunction with the city of West Bend and Washington County.

"West Bend residents shouldn't have to worry about hazardous substances in their community," said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. "EPA is committed to removing the asbestos-containing debris as quickly and safely as possible."

"Thank you to the EPA and Wisconsin DNR for prioritizing the cleanup of this dangerous site,"said Mayor Joel Ongert. "Our city team has worked for years to secure the property and buildings and protect the public from it. We are excited about the progress of these cleanup efforts and look forward to preparing the site for future redevelopment."

EPA conducted a site assessment last week following a request from WDNR and the city. EPA discovered asbestos-containing materials and e-waste on-site. EPA will remove the asbestos-containing debris from the building and dispose it in an EPA-approved landfill. During removal, EPA will spray water on debris to control any dust and will monitor the air to ensure asbestos fibers do not leave the cleanup area. During cleanup, residents may see more traffic and hear noise around the site area.

The 105,000-square-foot facility is located in the heart of downtown West Bend. The site is surrounded by single-family homes and the Eisenbahn State Trail.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has a fibrous form, which makes it a strong and heat-resistant material. It was historically used in many products and is still present in older homes and buildings. Breathing in fibers from the breakdown or disposal of old asbestos products can cause harmful health effects. Potential health issues can include shortness of breath and a persistent cough. Long-term exposure is linked to mesothelioma and lung cancer. As a result, EPA has banned most uses of asbestos.

To learn more about the cleanup, visit EPA's website.

Follow EPA Region 5 on X and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 5, visit our website.