Dutch public prosecutors inspected Tata Steel's IJmuiden plant to investigate whether it was responsible for the deliberate and illegal introduction of hazardous substances into the soil, air, or surface water.

The inquiry, first announced in February, brought complaints against Tata on behalf of more than 1,100 individuals and companies. The investigation aimed to gain a better understanding of Tata's steel production processes and, in particular, the operations of its coke and gas plants.

Tata recently announced that it will invest €65 million to convert from current blast furnace technology to hydrogen-based direct reduction plants and electric furnaces by 2030. In addition, it will make the IJmuiden plant more sustainable to become carbon neutral by 2045.