[Summary translation prepared by Business & Human Rights Resource Centre]

Kryvyi Rih: Environmental situation and corruption, 4 September 2024

On September 3, 2024, public sources reported that the State Environmental Inspectorate fined a Kryvyi Rih enterprise over 10 million UAH for harmful air emissions. For months, a visible pollution cloud hovered over the city, and the issue became so apparent that—surprisingly—officials finally decided to take notice. To calm the angry residents, a fine was issued, though this move is largely symbolic (reasons explained below).

Typically, polluting enterprises do not fix the violations even after being fined. Why? Because paying a fine is cheaper than investing in new environmental equipment. And there are no other serious consequences—just relatively small penalties for such large companies.

ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih (formerly Kryvorizhstal) is a repeat offender, with violations reported yearly, but no meaningful changes. The problem isn’t unique to Kryvyi Rih—polluting industries across Ukraine routinely ignore safety standards, repeatedly break the law, and are rarely held accountable.

The root of the issue lies in lobbying and corruption. It’s suspected that violations by ArcelorMittal are overlooked due to corrupt practices, as numerous criminal cases against the company have ended without consequences.