To the Editor:
There’s one government agency every American should rally behind: the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). We all want clean air, water, and land for ourselves and our families.
The EPA’s mission is simple: protect human health and our environment.
They ensure we have access to clean air, land, and water. They also work to lessen environmental risks using the latest scientific knowledge. The agency enforces federal laws to keep our communities safe and oversees the cleanup of polluted sites, making sure those responsible take action.
Another essential role of the EPA is reviewing the safety of chemicals in our markets. However, to do their job effectively, the EPA needs adequate funding and resources. It’s far better to prevent environmental disasters than to clean them up after they happen. Just look at the Flint, Michigan water crisis for a painful example.
If you’re unsure about toxic contamination, consider the DuPont PFOA scandal that devastated the community in Parkersburg, WV. The 2019 Netflix movie “Dark Waters” sheds light on this disturbing situation.
Closer to home, our lovely Housatonic River offers great fishing, but it has faced years of contamination, mainly from the discharges of PCBs by General Electric and mercury from local industries. Despite the EPA’s involvement, toxic materials still linger in the water, sediments, and fish.
Having enough resources is crucial, but it’s equally important to have the right people: qualified scientists and technical experts who understand environmental issues. These experts won’t just appear; they need experience and support to thrive.
We also want motivated individuals working at the EPA. A toxic workplace can drive talented professionals to seek better-paying jobs in the private sector. A positive workplace culture starts at the top, and we don’t want a repeat of the scandals during Scott Pruitt’s tenure.
The current head of the EPA, Administrator Lee Zeldin, faces a challenge. Will he stand firm against the pressures of companies like Big Oil and prioritize the environment over corporate interests? Only time will tell, but we all can play a part in holding him accountable.
Frank B. Gardner
Neil P. Randle
Sandy Hook
Check out this related article: Protect Our Planet: How to Advocate for Essential Environmental Safeguards
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