Study: Toxins Found in Mountaintop Coal Mining Sites

A new study by the U.S. Geological Survey found high levels of toxic compounds in soil and water around mountaintop-removal mining sites in central Appalachia.

Researchers tested air, water, and soil in the mountaintop mining communities in southern West Virginia and concluded that the people there live in an environment with ”significant chemical discrepancies” when compared to the rest of the state, according to iWatch News. They found “unusually high” pH and conductivity levels in the water, irregular levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in streams and soils, as well as abnormal air particulate loading. 

Some PAH compounds are suspected carcinogens.

The study did not connect its findings to specific health threats. However, the preliminary results were welcomed by activists, who say the practice of decapitating mountains to extract coal causes health problems such as birth defects and cancer and is damaging to streams and wildlife, according to iWatch News.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by chemical exposure, contact Sokolove Law for a free legal consultation and to find out if you may be able to pursue legal action. For legal help, call (800) 581-6358.

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