Unveiling the Health Risks: How TCE Contamination from IBM-Endicott Impacts Our Environment and Communities

The leader of an environmental database firm from Ithaca is raising alarms about leftover pollution from the old IBM-Endicott manufacturing site. Walter Hang, president of Toxics Targeting, believes that the presence of trichlorethylene (TCE) in the area poses serious risks to public health, particularly increasing the chances of developing Parkinson’s disease for those exposed.

On a recent WNBF Radio interview, Hang pointed out that TCE is a major contaminant linked to IBM-Endicott. He mentioned that although the contamination was identified 45 years ago, cleanup efforts have yet to fully resolve the issue.

Hang highlighted that the TCE has impacted around 250 acres near the former manufacturing site. He warned that this chemical can seep into buildings, similar to how radon does.

In response to the ongoing concerns, Toxics Targeting is starting a “Parkinson’s Prevention Campaign” to inform those potentially exposed to TCE. The campaign aims to equip individuals with the information they need to understand the risks.

Hang is calling on New York Governor Kathy Hochul to act on the situation. He criticized the state’s lack of regulatory enforcement regarding the TCE dump sites, labeling it as “shocking and irresponsible.” He believes the lingering contamination threatens many homes in the area due to possible soil vapor intrusion.

This issue is significant not only for public health but also for the community’s future. Awareness and action are crucial to ensure community safety and address this longstanding problem.

Source link

articles,business,environment,local news,news,newsletter,wnbf news