The proposed facility would have brought more than 1,500 tons of trash per day through a community already surrounded by polluting industrial sites. Photo: Shutterstock.
September 17, 2025 (Boston, MA) – The New Bedford Board of Health has voted to reject plans for the proposed waste transfer station from South Coast Renewables (formerly Parallel Products). The decision marks a significant victory for local residents who organized for years to protect their health, safety, and environment.
“New Bedford is a powerful example of what community leadership looks like,” said Alex St. Pierre, director of communities and toxics at CLF. “Neighbors organized, educated, and supported one another every step of the way. No one should have to fight this hard just to be safe in their own neighborhood – but they did, and they won. Today, the Board of Health chose to protect people over pollution.”
The Board’s decision is what’s known as a “site suitability determination” – a critical first step in deciding whether this location is appropriate for a solid waste facility. In rejecting it, the Board made it clear: This is no place for this kind of polluting operation.
“This decision means that those appointed to protect the health and safety of this community did their jobs, and I applaud and thank them profusely for that. Our children and most vulnerable neighbors can breathe easier, knowing that they will not be exposed to pollutants, dangers, and nuisances inherent to the daily operations of a facility such as this. We are truly relieved and grateful that the voices of this community were heard and respected,” said Wendy Morrill, a New Bedford resident and organizer with South Coast Neighbors United.
Added Tracy Wallace, also a New Bedford resident and organizer with South Coast Neighbors United: “I applaud the Board of Health for its thorough research and knowledge of the proposed project and the impacts it would have, along with the rights and responsibilities they were entrusted with.”
The proposed facility would have brought more than 1,500 tons of trash per day through a community already surrounded by polluting industrial sites. Local residents – many of whom were initially excluded from the process – spoke out in large numbers, demanding the Board of Health put their health first.
“Today’s decision is a victory for South Coast Neighbors United and for every resident who has spoken out to protect their family, health, and environment. The Board of Health has helped shift New Bedford’s trajectory away from a history of repeated pollution and environmental injustice, and toward a future where community voices matter and public safety comes before corporate interests. Slingshot celebrates this outcome and will continue standing alongside residents to ensure our region is safe, healthy, and thriving,” said Bernette Dawson, community organizer at Slingshot.
CLF and Slingshot have worked closely alongside local residents to challenge the proposal. We will continue partnering with the community to build a cleaner, safer New Bedford.
Experts are available for further comment.
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