Medical waste incineration poses health risks due to the toxic substances it releases into the air, including dioxins, furans, heavy metals, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—chemicals linked to cancer, respiratory and immune diseases, developmental issues in children, and other severe health issues. Many of these compounds persist as “forever chemicals” in the environment and bioaccumulate, causing long-term damage to human and ecosystem health.

 

Due to these risks, EPA imposes stricter emissions limits on medical waste incinerators (and Delaware and Rhode Island have banned them). However, the proposal before DEEP exploits a loophole that would allow the Bristol incinerator to burn medical waste without having to follow these limits. Nor would the proposal result in the installation of modern, continuous emissions monitoring technology for dangerous toxins: emissions of dioxins and heavy metals would only be recorded once per year, and PFAS emissions would never be recorded.

 

Also of concern, the proposal also increases the risk of infection. The proposal would allow the mass importation and incineration of materials up to biosafety level 4, which applies to pathogens that are easily spread, cause severe to fatal disease, and for which there is no vaccine or treatment. This raises the specter of accidental releases or spills that could endanger first responders and communities along transportation routes.

 

The backdrop to this proposal is an industry undergoing a green transition. Nationally, over 95% of medical waste incinerators have closed in favor of safer, more ecological alternatives. According to Mike Ewall, Executive Director of Energy Justice Network, “There is no need to burn medical waste.”

 

Connecticut faces a crucial decision that could have far-reaching consequences for its environment and public health, and public participation in this decision-making process is vital.

A public hearing on this issue has been scheduled for November 7, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom, and written comments will be accepted by DEEP until November 18, 2024. Concerned residents and organizations are urged to make their voices heard and demand rejection of the proposal. A link to sign up to speak and to submit public comments can be found at Bristol Residents for Clean Air.

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Francis Pickering is a Sierra Club member who lives in Southington.