Trouble by the ton

Using statistics compiled by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, a local consumer-advocacy group last week issued a report documenting more than 6 million pounds of toxic chemicals, including carcinogens and known human health hazards, released into state waterways in 1998 alone. And, unlike many states, Georgia is witnessing an increase in such releases; the 1997 totals were 85 percent higher than those for 1988, placing the state at No. 6 in the nation for toxic releases in ‘97.
“If we don’t address this pollution now,” says Maggie Kelly of the Georgia Public Interest Research Group, “we’ll leave a legacy of tainted waters for future generations.”
Among other findings, PIRG researchers note that of the 10 to 12 percent of state waters actually tested by regulators, 60 percent were deemed unsuitable for swimming. More than 30 Georgia lakes and more than 60 sections of rivers have restrictions in place on fishing for human consumption because of high mercury levels and other industrial toxins.
PIRG also says that more than 65 percent of the releases were reported by just three sources: DSM Chemicals in Augusta; and two companies managed by Engelhard Corporation, one in Savannah and another in Attapulgus in southwest Georgia.