In Moody, Alabama, families near an unauthorized dump site express health concerns linked to an underground fire, prompting discussions on testing for PFAS exposure.
Lee Hedgepeth reports for Inside Climate News.
In short:
- Residents affected by the Moody landfill fire have reported health issues, leading to a call for blood or urine tests for PFAS, known as "forever chemicals."
- Environmental advocates and local families are pushing for more information and accountability regarding chemical exposure, amidst state officials' skepticism about the usefulness of testing.
- The ongoing fire has raised significant concerns about air and water quality, with some officials questioning the impact of PFAS on residents' health.
Key quote:
"The results of what's coming out of that landfill are higher than any of the samples collected anywhere else in the State of Alabama."
— David Butler, staff attorney for Cahaba Riverkeeper
Why this matters:
The migration of PFAS from landfills into the environment poses significant concerns. Once in the soil and groundwater, PFAS can travel, potentially contaminating drinking water sources and entering the food chain. This widespread contamination can have serious implications for public health and the environment, as PFAS have been linked to a variety of adverse health outcomes, including cancer, hormone disruption, and immune system effects.
