The Bergen Westwood Waste Incinerator, once a staple of waste management in the region, has left behind a toxic legacy that still affects the community today. Located in Bergen County, New Jersey, the incinerator operated from the 1970s until its closure in the 1990s, burning hundreds of thousands of tons of waste and releasing a cocktail of pollutants into the air.
The Bergen Westwood Waste Incinerator in operation (Source: EPA)
The incinerator’s emissions included dioxins, furans, and other hazardous air pollutants, which have been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, neurological damage, and reproductive issues. Despite the facility’s closure, the residual effects of these pollutants continue to be felt by nearby residents, many of whom have reported higher-than-average rates of cancer and other illnesses.
In the years since the incinerator’s closure, various studies have been conducted to assess the extent of the environmental and health impacts. These studies have consistently shown that the community surrounding the incinerator has been disproportionately affected by the facility’s operations. Soil and water samples have revealed elevated levels of contaminants, and air quality monitoring has detected the presence of toxic pollutants.
Environmental Impact
The environmental impact of the Bergen Westwood Waste Incinerator has been significant. The facility’s emissions have contaminated the surrounding soil and water, posing a risk to local wildlife and ecosystems. Nearby waterways, including the Hackensack River, have been found to contain high levels of pollutants, including dioxins and heavy metals.
Health Effects
The health effects of the incinerator’s emissions have been a major concern for the community. Exposure to the pollutants released by the facility has been linked to a range of health problems, including:
- Cancer: Studies have shown that people living near the incinerator have a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer, including lung, breast, and liver cancer.
- Neurological damage: Exposure to the pollutants released by the incinerator has been linked to neurological problems, including cognitive impairment, memory loss, and behavioral issues.
- Reproductive issues: The incinerator’s emissions have been linked to reproductive problems, including birth defects, miscarriage, and infertility.
Despite the overwhelming evidence of the incinerator’s toxic legacy, efforts to provide compensation and support to affected communities have been slow to materialize. Local residents and advocacy groups have called for greater action to be taken to address the ongoing health and environmental impacts of the facility.
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