Residents near the Goodyear chemical plant in Niagara Falls face heightened cancer risks from ortho-toluidine emissions, which computer modeling shows exceed state safety guidelines.
Jim Morris and Emyle Watkins report for Public Health Watch.
In short:
- New York's DEC modeling reveals ortho-toluidine levels up to seven times higher than state safety limits near the Goodyear plant.
- Advocates are urging the EPA to take emergency action as state regulators and Goodyear plan pollution control upgrades that may take two years.
- Nearly 4,000 residents, many low-income and children, live within the affected area.
Key quote:
“It’s a betrayal of the public trust. It’s shameful what the DEC and the health department have done.”
— Anne Rabe, volunteer with Don’t Waste New York
Why this matters:
Exposure to ortho-toluidine is linked to bladder cancer, and residents face prolonged health risks from ongoing emissions. The community, largely low-income, relies on timely regulatory action to reduce toxic exposure and protect public health.
Related: Niagara Falls chemical plant emits carcinogens for years without state action
