Nationwide, communities deal with pollution problems

February 11, 2002

By Raeke

Star Editorial Writer

02-10-2002

This street sign in Herculaneum, Mo., warns residents of the dangers of lead

in their community.

The people in western Anniston may have the worst exposure to PCB pollution

in the world. That's the word from a panel of scientists who met in Atlanta

last month to discuss the compound and its effects on human health.

In addition to the number of environmental and health issues to be

addressed, the contamination has left the community with a stigma. Once the

lawsuits have subsided and the PCBs have been carted away, it may well

persist.

But Anniston is not alone. Across the country other communities grapple with

similar pollution problems. Different chemicals, different names, same

issues.

In Herculaneum, Mo., residents live in the shadow of a lead smelter. Unlike

Monsanto/Solutia, which no longer makes PCBs, the Doe Run Company still

refines lead. In the process, it fouls the air and leaves a fine coat of

lead on the streets, in the playgrounds and around the homes. While many of

the health effects of PCBs remain debatable, the effects of lead poisoning

are known - lowered intelligence, aggressive behavior and organ damage are

among the several side effects.

And in Herculaneum, trucks spill their toxic cargo on the asphalt while the

smelter has yet to come into compliance with the Clean Air Act of the late

1970s. To remedy the situation, the Environmental Protection Agency has

ordered Doe Run to clean up the town.

Many residents don't want it. Like some Anniston families, they just want

out. And they want the company to pay for it.

See their story in the insight section of today's Anniston Star.

About Raeke - Raeke writes for The Anniston Star's

commentary pages. He previously has covered chemical weapons issues and

business for The Star.

Contact Raeke Phone:

Fax:

E-mail:

256-235-9241

256-235-3535

rraeke@...

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