Statesman Journal, Salem, Oregon

Opinion Sunday, May 1, 2005

Public lacks data about health risks of waste burning

May 1, 2005

Public Works Director Jim Sears implies the Marion County Solid Waste Management Advisory Council thoroughly reviewed health issues surrounding the burning of infectious medical waste at the Brooks incinerator. Back in June, the committee promised to study the matter and create a matrix of pros and cons before making any recommendations. After reviewing all council minutes, viewing tapes of their meetings and speaking to members of the council, I find no evidence of such a study.

Lifting of the cap is not needed to address local needs. The cap is being lifted to allow up to 4 million pounds of out-of-state medical waste being imported each year to our community.

The question is why should we become the dumping ground for toxin-producing waste? Do we want to become the garbage dump for others? Let the communities that produce that garbage take responsibility for it, not us.

The public deserves full disclosure, and the Marion County commissioners should require the advisory council to do a better job of analyzing the risks of burning infectious medical waste not only on our air and water, but also on the toxin ash that will be produced.

-- Susann Kaltwasser, Salem