Protests Erupt Over US EPA's Eton Fire Debris Disposal Plan
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Synopsis
Protests have emerged in response to the US EPA's plan to process Eaton fire debris near Los Angeles County, raising concerns about toxic waste and local safety. Leaders from several cities have expressed their disapproval and demand more involvement in decision-making.
Key Takeaways
- Local leaders oppose EPA's debris plan
- Concerns over toxic waste exposure
- Four cities unite against the proposal
- Site preparation underway at Lario Park
- Recent wildfires in the region exacerbate the situation
Los Angeles, Jan 29 (NationPress) The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has faced fierce opposition due to its proposal to establish a site for processing Eaton fire debris close to the foothill communities of Los Angeles County. Local leaders have expressed their alarm over the potential introduction of toxic waste in their neighborhoods.
On Monday, the municipalities of Duarte, Azusa, Irwindale, and Baldwin Park jointly declared their disapproval of the EPA's initiative to utilize Lario Park as the disposal site for hazardous household debris resulting from the fire, which includes lithium-ion batteries from electric vehicles.
The location at 15701 E. Foothill Blvd. is situated in an unincorporated section of the county, adjacent to the four cities, and is expected to start processing debris as early as next week, according to a report by Xinhua news agency.
Officials voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the risks posed to local residents and the lack of consultation in the decision-making process.
The EPA officially selected Lario Park as a processing facility last Thursday and has initiated preparations for accepting waste, as stated by the Los Angeles Times. Measures to manage spills around the processing area have also been implemented.
Once operational, debris will be transported daily, sorted into various waste categories, packaged for shipment, and subsequently disposed of, as reported by federal officials.
In the meantime, a rapid brush fire recently broke out in Los Angeles County, consuming over 10,000 acres (40 sq km) by January 23, as per the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).
The fire, driven by dry vegetation and powerful Santa Ana winds, spread quickly, leading to mandatory evacuation orders for approximately 19,000 residents.
This month, Los Angeles County has experienced a surge of devastating wildfires. The Palisades and Eaton fires, the largest in the most populated county in the United States, have resulted in the deaths of 28 individuals, triggered multiple mandatory evacuations, and destroyed thousands of structures.
