Fact Check: The community of Geismar is seen in the shadow of a chemical and petroleum industrial corridor, that is a known source of ethylene oxide emissions.

Fact Check: "The community of Geismar is seen in the shadow of a chemical and petroleum industrial corridor, that is a known source of ethylene oxide emissions."

What We Know

The community of Geismar, located in southeastern Louisiana, is indeed situated near a chemical and petroleum industrial corridor that is a significant source of ethylene oxide (EtO) emissions. Recent studies have shown that this area experiences ethylene oxide concentrations that are substantially higher than the estimates provided by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). For instance, a study conducted in February 2023 reported that the average ethylene oxide levels in the region were measured at 31.4 parts per trillion (ppt), with many locations exceeding the lifetime exposure concentration associated with a 100-in-one million excess cancer risk (source).

Additionally, the findings from Johns Hopkins University indicated that ethylene oxide levels in parts of Louisiana were found to be up to 40 parts per billion (ppb), which is over a thousand times higher than what is considered safe for long-term exposure (source). This elevated presence of ethylene oxide is particularly concerning given its classification as a known human carcinogen (source).

Analysis

The claim that Geismar is "seen in the shadow of a chemical and petroleum industrial corridor" is supported by substantial evidence from multiple studies. The research conducted by Johns Hopkins University utilized advanced mobile monitoring techniques to measure ethylene oxide levels across the industrial corridor, revealing significantly higher concentrations than previously reported by the EPA (source). This discrepancy highlights the limitations of traditional air quality monitoring methods, which often fail to capture the real-time fluctuations of hazardous emissions (source).

Moreover, the area has garnered attention for its history of environmental injustices, often referred to as "Cancer Alley," due to the high concentration of industrial facilities and the associated health risks for local communities (source). The reliability of these findings is bolstered by the rigorous methodologies employed in the studies, including in situ measurements and comparisons with EPA data, which suggest a consistent underreporting of ethylene oxide levels in the region (source).

However, it is important to note that while the studies provide compelling evidence of ethylene oxide emissions, the potential for bias exists in how these findings are communicated. Environmental advocacy groups may emphasize the health risks associated with industrial emissions to advocate for stricter regulations, which could influence public perception (source). Nonetheless, the scientific data presented remains robust and credible.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that the community of Geismar is situated in the shadow of a chemical and petroleum industrial corridor known for ethylene oxide emissions is substantiated by recent research findings. The elevated levels of ethylene oxide detected in the area, significantly surpassing EPA estimates, confirm the risks posed to local residents. The evidence from multiple studies underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and assessment of air quality in industrial regions like Geismar.

Sources

1. High Spatial Resolution Mobile Monitoring during HAP-MAP
2. Surprisingly High Levels of Toxic Gas Found in Louisiana
3. Louisiana stifles community air monitoring with threat of ...
4. Lawsuit: Louisiana stifles air monitoring with threat of large ...
5. Researchers find higher levels of dangerous chemical than ...
6. Shell settles with LDEQ over alleged ethylene oxide release
7. Invisible Threat, Inequitable Impact
8. Researchers find higher levels of dangerous chemical than ...