Wildlife VP: East Palestine mustn't join 'inexcusable list.' Biden, DeWine must investigate by: Mustafa Santiago Ali: We don’t know yet the extent of the impact of this incident — the Environmental Protection Agency and the state of Ohio have not yet detected the worst of these chemicals in the air or water. For residents, however, who are worried about their families and access to clean and safe air and water, the fear is that once media attention and government oversight fade, the effects of these chemicals could remain. We also do not know yet the impact on wildlife and ecosystems in the area.
Environmental impact may not be known for years.
The release of manmade chemicals into water, soil, and air can have disastrous effects on delicate ecosystems that are already under threat from the climate crisis. To understand and mitigate the effects on people and wildlife in the affected area, the state of Ohio and the EPA must ensure transparent and ongoing research and support in the region.
Railroads, and other critical infrastructure, are often built in areas where residents have little say about the potential safety considerations.
Black and brown, and less affluent communities most impacted by such incidents.
It may be years or decades before we know the full impact of an accident like this on wildlife and plants in the area.
Historically, Black and brown communities and less affluent communities have been the site of railroads, highways, and other infrastructure.
When accidents occur, these communities are often the first and worst impacted - becoming something of a national sacrifice zone even while facing disastrous health and financial impacts.
16 E. J. TODAY
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