Join the Fight: Dallas Activists Rally Against Toxic Shingle Plants for a Greener Future

Two environmental justice groups in Dallas are pushing for action against two industrial sites they claim are harming local neighborhoods. At a recent press conference outside City Hall, advocates from Downwinders at Risk and Singleton United/Unidos raised concerns about the GAF and TAMKO asphalt shingle factories. They argue that these facilities are negatively impacting the health of residents in West Dallas and Joppa.

Cindy Hua, chair of Downwinders at Risk, stated, “Every day, people in these areas deal with environmental harm due to years of neglect.” The groups are launching the “Toxic Twins” campaign aimed at shutting down these factories. They want the city council to use a process called amortization, which allows for the structured closure of nonconforming land uses.

Caleb Roberts, executive director of Downwinders at Risk, pointed out that West Dallas and Joppa are among the most polluted neighborhoods in Dallas. “It’s concerning that these polluters are situated in such vulnerable communities,” he emphasized. This campaign represents a stronger collaboration between the two organizations to advocate for change.

Roberts noted that city council members have the power to initiate the amortization process, but they need to assess whether there are sufficient funds available for closure. The nonconforming use fund helps manage land that no longer complies with current zoning laws.

In the coming months, the groups plan to host events to highlight the environmental issues in Dallas. A spokesperson for GAF stated that they operate in line with air quality regulations and are taking measures to lower emissions. They also announced plans to close the West Dallas facility by July 2029. TAMKO has not responded to media queries but claims on its website to have a long history of safe and sustainable practices.

This call to action comes as Singleton United/Unidos leader, Janie Cisneros, is involved in a lawsuit against the City of Dallas. She argues that recent changes to development codes, which prevent residents from initiating amortization proceedings, are unconstitutional.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), around 30% of the U.S. population lives within a mile of industrial areas, which can lead to adverse health effects. Experts say that communities near these sites often face higher rates of respiratory issues and other health problems.

The “Toxic Twins” campaign shines a light on the urgent need for environmental justice in areas often overlooked in urban planning. Residents are voicing their demand for cleaner air and healthier lives.



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