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Massive Recycling Facility Fire Engulfs Roselle, NJ

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/3 .. -recycling-facility-fire-engulfs-roselle-nj.html
  Published in House and Home on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 1:23 GMT by NBC New York
      Locales: New Jersey, UNITED STATES

Roselle, NJ - January 31st, 2026 - Air quality alerts remain in effect across a widening area of New Jersey this Saturday, as firefighters continue to battle a massive blaze at an industrial recycling facility in Roselle. The fire, which began late Friday night around 11:00 PM, has sent towering plumes of thick, black smoke billowing into the atmosphere, visible from dozens of miles away. While the immediate focus remains on containment, the long-term health implications for surrounding communities are beginning to be assessed.

Initially impacting Roselle and immediately adjacent municipalities, the air quality alerts have now been extended to include Newark, Elizabeth, Linden, and portions of Union County. Mayor Ras Baraka of Newark issued a statement urging residents to "limit outdoor activities until further notice," echoing the concerns of health officials across the affected regions. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) is actively monitoring air quality levels and providing data updates to local authorities and the public.

The recycling facility, identified as 'Apex Resource Recovery,' specializes in the processing of mixed industrial waste, including plastics, metals, and paper. The nature of the materials being processed is contributing to the particularly noxious and visible smoke, raising concerns about the presence of dioxins and other harmful pollutants. Initial reports suggest a significant quantity of plastic materials are involved, creating a persistent, acrid smell that has permeated the air for miles.

"The composition of the burning materials is a key factor," explains Dr. Emily Carter, a specialist in environmental toxicology at Rutgers University. "Industrial recycling facilities often handle complex waste streams. Burning plastics, especially when done incompletely, releases a cocktail of dangerous chemicals - particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and potentially even heavy metals. The black smoke is indicative of incomplete combustion, meaning these harmful substances aren't being broken down effectively."

The NJDEP has deployed mobile air monitoring units to strategic locations in the impacted areas. These units are measuring levels of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone, and various toxic air pollutants. Preliminary data released earlier today indicates that PM2.5 levels - the smallest and most dangerous type of particulate matter - are significantly elevated in Newark and Elizabeth. Residents with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma, COPD, and heart disease, are being advised to take extra precautions, including staying indoors, using air purifiers with HEPA filters, and keeping medication readily available. The elderly and young children are also considered particularly vulnerable.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Roselle Fire Department, with assistance from the State Fire Marshal's Office. Investigators are exploring all potential avenues, including accidental ignition, equipment malfunction, and even the possibility of arson. A complex investigation is expected, given the scale of the fire and the potentially hazardous materials involved.

This incident has re-ignited debate regarding the siting of industrial facilities near densely populated areas. Activist groups, such as the 'Clean Air NJ Coalition', are calling for stricter regulations and increased oversight of recycling and waste processing plants. "This fire is a direct consequence of allowing these facilities to operate with insufficient safety measures and in close proximity to residential communities," stated Coalition spokesperson Maria Rodriguez. "We need a comprehensive review of zoning laws and environmental permits to prioritize public health and prevent future disasters."

Fire crews are expected to remain on scene for at least another 24-48 hours, working to fully extinguish the blaze and prevent any further spread. Residents are urged to follow updates from local authorities and the NJDEP and to heed all safety recommendations. The long-term environmental impact of the fire will require ongoing monitoring and assessment. The NJDEP has established a dedicated hotline and website to provide information and resources to concerned residents. Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves.