Toxic Legacy: The Ongoing Battle Over the Henry Collinsville Waste Incinerator

Toxic Legacy: The Ongoing Battle Over the Henry Collinsville Waste Incinerator

For decades, the town of Collinsville, Illinois, has been plagued by a toxic legacy that continues to have devastating consequences for its residents. At the center of this environmental and health crisis is the Henry Collinsville waste incinerator, a facility that has been burning hazardous waste since the 1970s. The incinerator, operated by the Veolia North America company, has been the subject of intense controversy and litigation, with local residents and environmental groups fighting to hold the company accountable for the harm it has caused.

A History of Pollution

The Henry Collinsville waste incinerator was first built in 1971, with the goal of providing a convenient and efficient way to dispose of hazardous waste. However, from the very beginning, the facility has been plagued by problems. Residents living nearby began to notice strange odors and smoke emanating from the incinerator, and soon, reports of health problems began to emerge. Over the years, the incinerator has been cited for numerous environmental and health violations, including the release of toxic chemicals such as dioxin, lead, and mercury into the air and water.

Health Consequences

The health consequences of living near the Henry Collinsville waste incinerator have been severe. Residents have reported a range of health problems, including respiratory issues, cancer, and neurological damage. According to a study conducted by the Illinois Department of Public Health, the area surrounding the incinerator has some of the highest rates of cancer and respiratory disease in the state. The study found that the risk of cancer was up to 50% higher than the national average, and that the incidence of respiratory disease was significantly higher than in other areas of the state.

Community Resistance

Despite the obvious health risks, Veolia North America has continued to operate the incinerator, claiming that it is a safe and necessary facility. However, the community has not taken this lying down. Over the years, residents have organized protests, petitions, and lawsuits to try and shut down the incinerator. In 2019, a group of local residents and environmental organizations filed a lawsuit against Veolia North America, alleging that the company had knowingly and recklessly endangered the health and well-being of the community.

Government Inaction

One of the most frustrating aspects of the Henry Collinsville waste incinerator saga is the lack of action from government agencies. Despite numerous complaints and reports of environmental and health violations, state and federal regulators have failed to take meaningful action to address the problem. In 2018, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) fined Veolia North America $100,000 for violating air pollution standards, but the company was allowed to continue operating the incinerator. The lack of action from government agencies has left the community feeling frustrated and betrayed.

A Call to Action

The battle over the Henry Collinsville waste incinerator is far from over. In fact, it is more urgent than ever. As the community continues to fight for justice and accountability, it is essential that state and federal regulators take immediate action to address the health and environmental risks posed by the incinerator. This includes conducting a comprehensive environmental and health assessment, enforcing strict emissions standards, and providing compensation to residents who have been harmed by the facility.

In conclusion, the toxic legacy of the Henry Collinsville waste incinerator is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of environmental neglect and corporate greed. The ongoing battle over the incinerator is a testament to the resilience and determination of the community, but it also highlights the need for stronger regulations and greater accountability from government agencies and corporations. As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize the health and well-being of our communities and take bold action to protect the environment and prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.

What You Can Do

If you are concerned about the Henry Collinsville waste incinerator and its impact on the community, there are several ways you can get involved:

• Contact your elected officials and demand action to address the health and environmental risks posed by the incinerator.
• Support local residents and environmental organizations who are fighting to shut down the incinerator.
• Stay informed about the latest developments in the battle over the incinerator and share information with your friends and family.
• Consider attending a community meeting or rally to show your support for the community and to demand justice and accountability from Veolia North America and government regulators.

Together, we can make a difference and ensure that the toxic legacy of the Henry Collinsville waste incinerator is finally brought to an end.