Accomplishments

CACWNY Accomplishments and Victories

• Collected our own data using the “bucket” method which uncovered concerning air pollution levels of benzene. The “Bucket” is an easy to use air sampling device housed inside a 5 gallon plastic bucket.  After sampling the air, the sample is sent to an EPA certified laboratory for testing.

• Worked with the local DEC and UB in further testing to confirm the results of the bucket samples previously collected. This effort resulted in the DEC being awarded a $300,000 EPA grant to place 4 air monitors in our community.

• Conducted a community participation investigation to determine personal air pollution exposure.

•  In collaboration with the DEC, determined air pollutants of concern: benzene, formaldehyde, acrolein, carbon tetrachloride, acetaldehyde, particulate pollution. Under investigation are PAH (poly aromatic hydrocarbons)

•  Secured major funding in 2008/2009. Awarded two NYSDEC Environmental Justice grants entitled, “Researching the Link between Air Pollution from Numerous Sources on Community Exposure and Health” (2007) and “Implementing Reduction Strategies for Benzene in the Workplace and Community” (2008).

•  Organized a “Stakeholder” group of concerned citizens.  The Stakeholder group currently acts as the “Board of Directors” as we approach our non for profit status.

•  Passed four resolutions: two by Erie County and two by  Town and City of Tonawanda calling on local industries, specifically Tonawanda Coke, to reduce their harmful air emissisons .

•  Developed strong allies with Earthjustice, Center for Health and Environmental Justice, University of Buffalo, and political support from County Legislators Whyte and Iannello, State Senator Antoine Thompson, US Senator’s Schumer and Gillebrand.

•  Initiated a “Good Neighbor” and canvassing campaign.

•  With the help of Leg. Iannello and Whyte, gained the NYS Dept of Health interest and involvement.  Currently discussing possibility of a health study.

•  Facilitated  EPA investigation of Tonawanda Coke (April ’09), still awaiting report.

•  MAJOR VICTORY: On June 12th, 2009, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) confirmed – Tonawanda Coke Corp. (TCC) is the source of the high levels of the carcinogen benzene in our area.    The local DEC has officially stated that air toxins and cancer risk in our community must be reduced.

• Facilitated community-run air sampling using the “bucket method.” The “bucket” is an easy to use air sampling device housed inside a 5 gallon plastic bucket. After sampling the air, the sample is sent to an EPA certified laboratory for testing. We took three separate air samples in our community. The data showed high levels of benzene and other particulate matter and was used by the EPA and NYS DEC to justify funding a year-long air quality study.

• Conducted a community investigation to determine personal air pollution exposure. Ten residents wore badges to determine their exposure to air pollution.

• Gained political allies. Erie County and the City and Town of Tonawanda passed resolutions calling on local industry to reduce harmful emissions. We also worked to gain the support of Erie County legislators, Representative Louise Slaughter and Senators Gillibrand and Schumer.

• In December of 2009 Tonawanda Coke was raided by the US Attorney General’s office. Less than a week later the company’s Environmental Control Manager was arrested for violating three federal environmental laws.

• In January of 2010, the EPA announced a series of new regulatory action at Tonawanda Coke. The EPA found air, water and hazardous waste violations at the plant. If the company does not makes the mandates changes they face up to $35,000 per day they are out of compliance. Judith Enck, EPA Region 2 Administrator said, “I wasn’t aware personally of the problems until it was brought to my attention by a local citizens group.”