The Dirty Truth: Pollution's Impact On North Carolina

North Carolina is a state in the southeastern region of the United States, with a population of almost 10.5 million people in 2019, making it the 9th most populous state in the country. The state has been facing a range of pollution issues, including air, water, and soil pollution, which pose risks to both public health and the environment. The two biggest contributors to air pollution in North Carolina are ground-level ozone and particle pollution, mainly caused by vehicle emissions and coal-burning power plants. In recent years, air quality has improved due to efforts to address environmental concerns, with emissions of harmful pollutants reaching historic lows. However, North Carolina is also facing water contamination issues, with drinking water systems across the state exceeding new federal standards for toxic forever chemicals known as PFAS. Additionally, the state's industrial meat operations have led to water pollution and ammonia emissions, impacting both human health and the environment.

Ground-level ozone and particle pollution

Ground-level ozone is a dangerous pollutant that forms when nitrogen oxides (NOx) react with hydrocarbons on warm, sunny days with minimal wind. This ground-level ozone is distinct from the beneficial stratospheric ozone, which is located 10 to 30 miles above the Earth's surface and shields us from harmful ultraviolet rays. Ground-level ozone, on the other hand, can irritate the respiratory system, impair breathing, and exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma, allergies, emphysema, and bronchitis. It is particularly harmful to children, older adults, and individuals with asthma or other lung diseases.

To address this issue, the North Carolina Division of Air Quality (DAQ) maintains ozone monitors and issues daily air quality forecasts and advisories when ozone levels pose a health risk. These advisories are accessible on the DAQ website and through colour-coded forecasts. Additionally, efforts to reduce emissions from power plants, industry, and motor vehicles have contributed to a downward trend in ground-level ozone.

Particle pollution, another critical concern, refers to particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) in the air. It is composed of tiny particles, such as soot, that originate from coal-fired power plants, diesel emissions, wildfires, and wood-burning devices. These particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, triggering asthma attacks, heart attacks, and strokes, and can even be fatal. Year-round particle pollution levels have shown a slight decrease, thanks to the cleanup of coal-fired power plants and the retirement of old diesel engines.

To mitigate the impact of particle pollution, North Carolina has implemented measures such as improving energy efficiency in homes and buildings and transitioning to cleaner energy sources, such as utility-scale solar development. These efforts have resulted in a significant reduction in emissions of harmful particulate matter.

In conclusion, ground-level ozone and particle pollution are pressing issues in North Carolina, with far-reaching consequences for public health and the environment. Continuous efforts are being made to address these problems, including monitoring, public awareness, and the adoption of cleaner technologies. By working together, we can improve air quality and protect the well-being of North Carolina's residents.

Water pollution from industrial animal agriculture

North Carolina is one of the top four poultry-producing states in the United States, and its two top hog-producing counties are home to more hogs than people, with a ratio of 30-to-1. These industrial animal operations, also known as Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs), generate almost 10 billion gallons of animal waste per year.

The waste produced by these facilities is often stored in open-air, unlined lagoons and then sprayed onto nearby fields. This method of waste management can lead to groundwater contamination and excessive nitrates in drinking water, posing serious threats to both aquatic ecosystems and public health. For example, during Hurricane Florence, which devastated North Carolina's coast, there were wide-scale spills and contamination of animal waste into floodwaters, streams, and rivers.

The waste from CAFOs contains high levels of phosphorus and nitrogen, which can cause eutrophication in waterways, leading to the loss of aquatic life and their habitats. It can also result in shellfish contamination and seasonal dead zones. Additionally, animal waste can contain pharmaceutical residues, heavy metals such as copper and zinc, and harmful bacteria, which can leach into water supplies.

The excessive amounts of waste produced by CAFOs, coupled with the lack of proper waste management systems, has led to water pollution and negative impacts on the environment and public health in North Carolina.

Air pollution from industrial animal agriculture

North Carolina is one of the top four poultry-producing states in the US, and two of the top hog-producing counties in the country are in North Carolina, where hogs outnumber people 30-to-1 or 40-to-1. These industrial animal operations have a detrimental impact on the environment and human health.

The waste produced by these animals is a major source of air pollution. Hog and poultry waste emits ammonia, a gaseous form of nitrogen, which leaches into the ground and pollutes waterways, creating dead areas where no life can exist. It also exacerbates asthma in humans. During heavy rain or hurricanes, millions of gallons of animal waste are released into floodwaters, streams, and rivers.

Hog waste is often stored in open-air, unlined lagoons, which can overflow or leak, causing waste to seep into the soil and groundwater. Poultry waste is stored in uncovered piles on the banks of rivers and streams. Both types of waste are then spread on nearby fields as fertiliser. However, due to the scale of production, more waste is produced than can be absorbed by the land, leading to runoff into water sources.

According to the EPA, manure management is a significant source of agricultural greenhouse gas emissions in the US and globally. Manure emits ammonia, which combines with other air pollutants to form solid particles that can cause heart and lung diseases. The foul smell of hog waste is also a concern for people living near these industrial operations.

The industrial animal agriculture industry in North Carolina has been linked to various health issues for nearby residents, including higher all-cause and infant mortality, as well as higher rates of anemia, kidney disease, tuberculosis, septicemia, hospital admissions, and emergency room visits.

Water contamination from PFAS

The issue of PFAS contamination in North Carolina's water supply came to light in 2016 when researchers at North Carolina State University published a study. The contamination was found in the Cape Fear River Basin, with an emerging PFAS called GenX detected in the drinking water downstream of the Chemours Fayetteville Works facility. Subsequent investigations by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) revealed the presence of GenX and other PFAS in private drinking water wells near the facility.

PFAS exposure has been linked to several adverse health effects in humans. These include reproductive issues such as decreased fertility and increased blood pressure in pregnant women, developmental delays and behavioural changes in children, increased risk of certain cancers, impaired immune system function, interference with natural hormones, and elevated cholesterol and obesity risks.

To address this issue, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has developed a comprehensive Action Strategy. This strategy includes ongoing and future actions to protect residents from PFAS exposure and reduce environmental pollution. DEQ is working closely with public water systems to assess PFAS levels, prepare for the adoption of drinking water regulations, and identify treatment options. They are also providing funding for treatment systems to support residents with PFAS-contaminated private drinking water wells through the Bernard Allen Emergency Drinking Water Fund.

Additionally, DEQ has launched initiatives such as the PFAS Treatment Assistance Program and the PFAS Testing Network to address PFAS contamination and improve understanding of exposure across the state. The state is also utilizing federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to assist public water systems in addressing PFAS contamination. These efforts demonstrate North Carolina's proactive approach to protecting its residents and environment from the harmful effects of PFAS water contamination.

Air pollution from vehicles and power stations

North Carolina's air quality has been improving in recent years, with the state's residents breathing the cleanest air in decades. This is due to a combination of factors, including the adoption of cleaner energy sources, stricter emissions standards, and the growing popularity of electric vehicles. Despite these improvements, air pollution remains a significant issue, with vehicles and power stations being major contributors.

Vehicles, including cars, trucks, and other transportation sources, are a significant source of air pollution in North Carolina. While newer vehicles emit less pollution thanks to improved engine and fuel standards, the state's growing population and increasing economic activity continue to put pressure on air quality. The transportation sector remains a primary source of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compound emissions, contributing to ground-level ozone formation and particulate matter pollution.

To address this issue, North Carolina has implemented vehicle emissions inspections in 19 counties and is encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles. The state expects further reductions in transportation-related emissions in the coming years as more people transition to electric vehicles. Additionally, residents are advised to avoid idling their vehicles and to limit their time near high-traffic areas, especially when exercising.

Power stations, particularly coal-burning power plants, are another major source of air pollution in North Carolina. These plants emit various harmful pollutants, including nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, and particulate matter. Recognising the impact of power stations on air quality, North Carolina has invested in cleaner energy sources, such as utility-scale solar development, and improved energy efficiency in homes and buildings. These efforts have contributed to a significant reduction in emissions from electricity production.

Overall, while North Carolina has made notable progress in improving air quality, continued efforts are necessary to mitigate the impacts of vehicle and power station emissions. By adopting cleaner technologies, implementing stricter standards, and promoting sustainable practices, the state can further reduce air pollution and protect the health and well-being of its residents.

Frequently asked questions