Students and Faculty at the Mount Share Thoughts on Environmental Crises after Ohio Spill
By Katie Holgerson | Observer Contributor
Following a recent train derailment in Ohio, there are growing concerns over the potential health and environmental impacts caused by the spillage of hazardous chemicals such as vinyl chloride and butyl acetate into nearby rivers.
The incident occurred on February 3rd, 2023 in East Palestine, Ohio, causing all the town residents to evacuate due to the hazardous chemicals involved. In addition to public health concerns, the derailment caused an explosion and spillage of chemicals into nearby rivers, leading to the death of several fish. Efforts to control the situation through a controlled burn resulted in several chemicals being released into the atmosphere. Concerns have risen as people on social media have reported that the air in the area smelled of chlorine and chemicals, although the government assured the area was safe to return. It is worth noting that studies show the younger generation, including 32% of Gen Z and 28% of Millennials, are more concerned about global warming and other environmental issues and have taken actions for the planet in 2021.