High levels of a hazardous chemical polluted the air weeks after the Ohio train derailment, an analysis shows

Investigation Reveals High Levels of Chemical Irritant Near Train Derailment Site

Introduction

In February, a Norfolk Southern train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, causing concerns about air pollution and its impact on the health of residents. A team of researchers from Carnegie Mellon and Texas A&M universities conducted a study to measure the levels of air pollution in the area using a mass spectrometer. The study, published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology Letters, revealed elevated levels of a chemical irritant called acrolein near the derailment site. This article explores the findings of the study and highlights the potential health risks associated with acrolein exposure.

High Levels of Acrolein Detected

The research team found that levels of acrolein near the derailment site on February 20 and 21 were up to six times higher than normal levels recorded before the disaster. This discovery is significant because local and federal officials had informed residents that it was safe to return home on February 8. The researchers emphasized that prolonged exposure to acrolein at these levels could pose health risks. Low levels of exposure to acrolein are known to cause slow breathing, burning sensations in the nose and throat. Animal studies have also shown that long-term exposure can lead to lung damage and other respiratory issues.

Unexpected Presence of Acrolein

The presence of acrolein was unexpected, as it was not among the chemicals that spilled or burned during the train derailment. The researchers speculate that it could be a byproduct or a mixture of other chemicals released during the incident. Further investigation is needed to determine the exact source of acrolein in the air.

Concerns of Residents

Residents of East Palestine have been experiencing lingering symptoms and sought answers regarding the cause of their illnesses. Despite studies like this one, many residents were unable to have similar tests performed in their homes. Ashley McCollum, a resident of East Palestine, expressed frustration that her symptoms did not align with the chemicals detected in the area. She continues to experience burning in her eyes, tingling in her fingers and toes, rashes, and dizziness when visiting her home near the derailment site.

EPA’s Response

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also detected elevated levels of acrolein near the disaster site in February. However, their measurements did not assess the long-term health risks associated with the chemical. The EPA has welcomed the scientific review and interpretation of the study conducted by Carnegie Mellon researchers.

Complexity of Chemical Exposure

The researchers and other experts acknowledge the complexity of linking specific chemicals to health concerns. The air, water, and soil contain numerous compounds, making it challenging to isolate individual exposures. Additionally, many of the chemicals detected in East Palestine are not fully understood in terms of their health effects. The researchers stress that residents were exposed to a mixture of chemicals rather than a single substance.

Additional Hazards Detected

While the study provides important information about contamination in East Palestine, it is not comprehensive. Andrew Whelton, a professor at Purdue University, visited the area and detected hazardous chemicals such as benzene and butyl acylate in at least one building. He raised concerns about acute health threats that still exist inside buildings and urged agencies to address these issues.

In conclusion, the study conducted by Carnegie Mellon and Texas A&M universities revealed elevated levels of acrolein near the train derailment site in East Palestine. The findings highlight the potential health risks associated with acrolein exposure and emphasize the need for further investigation and remediation efforts to ensure the well-being of the affected residents.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
• SDG 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
• SDG 12.4: By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water, and soil in order to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Indicator for SDG 3.9: Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
• Indicator for SDG 11.6: Ambient air pollution measured in cities (e.g., levels of acrolein, formamide).
• Indicator for SDG 12.4: Levels of hazardous chemicals detected in the air, water, and soil.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: nbcnews.com

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