Johns Hopkins Health System and MedStar Health take opposing stances on continuing business with Curtis Bay Energy, a medical waste incinerator with a record of environmental violations.
Aman Azhar reports for Inside Climate News.
In short:
- Johns Hopkins Health System has ceased all dealings with the Curtis Bay medical waste incinerator, citing its history of environmental violations.
- MedStar Health, however, continues its relationship with the incinerator, arguing that incineration is necessary for certain types of medical waste.
- Curtis Bay Energy has been fined for multiple violations, and local residents and activists report ongoing pollution issues affecting community health.
Key quote:
“We have ended all dealings with Curtis Bay Energy and are working to shift nearly all of our medical waste disposal to more environmentally friendly technologies.”
— Johns Hopkins University spokesperson
Why this matters:
When garbage is burned, it doesn't simply disappear. Instead, the process transforms solid waste materials into gas and ash. This transformation releases various pollutants into the air, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, particulate matter and even forever chemicals such as PFAS.
For years, residents in this predominantly low-income and minority community have voiced concerns about the facility's impact on their air quality and overall well-being. The Curtis Bay incinerator, which burns municipal waste, emits pollutants that can cause respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, and other health issues.
