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A recent study conducted by the Conservation Alabama Foundation (CAF) has found that four of Alabama's largest cities contain highly polluted air, including high levels of benzene. Among the cities revealed to have hazardous air quality were:
Over the past year, CAF researchers collected data from various public and private agencies that regularly monitor air quality in these cities. In addition to this information, researchers also analyzed recent state studies and records kept by the Jefferson County health agency.
Throughout their studies, researchers focused on the concentrations of 15 different known toxins in each city's air. Some of these airborne chemicals, which are known to be carcinogenic substances, included:
Unfortunately, CAF researchers found that levels of these chemicals were present in concentrations well above air safety standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In some cases, levels of toxins exceeded federal standards by over 9,000 percent.
Of the above-listed toxins, benzene is one of the most toxic, as long-term exposure to benzene has been proven to cause a variety of potentially fatal health problems.
Benzene, a sweet smelling derivative of crude petroleum, is commonly used in synthetic substances and industrial processes. Along with being a main component in plastics and paints, benzene is also frequently included in solvents, degreasers and resins.
Despite its usefulness, benzene is highly toxic when inhaled and/or ingested. In fact, because benzene readily dissolves in air, water and soil, those who live near industrial areas or who regularly work with products containing benzene are at a high risk of experiencing unsafe benzene exposure.
In as little as five years, regular benzene exposure can result in irreversible, life threatening conditions, including:
Upon culminating their study, CAF researchers presented their results to officials at the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM).
By working together, CAF researchers and ADEM officials are now hoping to:
(Source: Conservation Alabama)
Have you or a loved one been harmed by benzene exposure? If so, contact us today to meet with an experienced benzene lawyer who can help you pursue your legal claim and win your highly deserved compensation.