Science

New Study Shows Louisiana's 'Cancer Alley' Air More Toxic Than Expected

Jun 11, 2024 1 min read

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A study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins University has found significantly elevated levels of ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen, in Louisiana's "Cancer Alley," a heavily industrialized region between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Using advanced mobile air-testing labs, the researchers detected ethylene oxide concentrations thousands of times higher than what is considered safe by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These levels are also much higher than the EPA's previous estimates for the area.

The study, published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, highlights the potential health risks for residents in the region, particularly due to the long-term exposure to the gas, which is used in chemical manufacturing and medical sterilization. The findings are expected to influence ongoing debates about air quality monitoring and regulatory enforcement, as well as discussions on environmental justice, given that many of the affected communities are predominantly Black and have been exposed to these industrial pollutants for decades. The research was partly funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies, which has been active in campaigns against the expansion of petrochemical facilities in the region.

#governance-esg #esg #environment #environment-esg #health #data

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