The District of Columbia is suing the federal government, alleging over a century of hazardous waste dumping in the Anacostia River has caused lasting harm to nearby communities and ecosystems.
Michael Casey reports for The Associated Press.
In short:
- The lawsuit accuses federal agencies of dumping carcinogenic PCBs and other toxic chemicals into the Anacostia River since the 1800s.
- The contamination has led to bans on swimming and warnings against fishing, with communities of color most affected.
- D.C. demands federal funds for cleanup efforts, which have already reduced sewage overflows by 91% following a $3.29 billion infrastructure upgrade.
Key quote:
"It has systematically contaminated the River through the indiscriminate dumping and release of hazardous substances and through destructive dredge and fill operations."
— District of Columbia lawsuit against the federal government
Why this matters:
Pollution in the Anacostia River poses significant health risks, including cancer and developmental disorders, to surrounding communities. Despite some progress, the river remains heavily polluted, reflecting the ongoing environmental injustices faced by marginalized populations.
Read more: Anacostia River sees slow but steady improvement after decades of neglect
