Press Release  MassDEP Fines Plastics Company for Hazardous Waste Violations

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has issued a penalty to Hunter Plastics, Inc., for hazardous waste violations that occurred at its facility located at 100 Pratt’s Junction Road in Sterling. 

MassDEP’s Environmental Strike Force inspected Hunter Plastics in April 2024 and again in January 2025. The inspections revealed several violations by Hunter Plastics, including illegally transporting more than 175 gallons of waste oil without a hazardous waste transporter license; failing to properly label and store hazardous waste containers; and failing to register as an onsite waste oil generator, which the company is required to complete before notifying MassDEP that it uses a waste oil burner for space heating.

"Hazardous waste regulations exist to protect people and the environment,” said Stephen Spencer, acting director of the MassDEP Environmental Strike Force. "The improper transportation, storage, labeling, and disposal of hazardous waste could lead to serious environmental and public health risks.” 

Under the terms of MassDEP's Consent Order, Hunter Plastics has stopped transporting hazardous waste materials. The company has also agreed to pay the $23,000 penalty and to ensure that all violations cited in the order are corrected. MassDEP agreed to suspend $10,000 of the penalty provided the company complies with all the terms and requirements of the order.

To report environmental violations to the Environmental Strike Force, visit our webpage. Or visit our website to learn more about management of hazardous waste visit Hazardous Waste Generation & Generators | Mass.gov and to learn more about proper transportation of hazardous waste please visit Hazardous Waste Transportation & Transporters | Mass.gov. 

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