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In the pursuit of a cleaner environment, it's essential to recognize and commend effective actions by our state agencies. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has recently taken significant steps to enforce air quality standards at Northern Iron, a foundry located in St. Paul's Payne-Phalen neighborhood. This area is an environmental justice community with some of the highest levels of lead in children's blood in Minnesota. The EPA has identified Northern Iron as a lead-emitting facility with a substantial impact on local children.
In April, the MPCA ordered Northern Iron to reduce its operations and implement measures to cut emissions. Despite pushback from the foundry, the MPCA denied a stay to this order, prioritizing the health of the community. However, Northern Iron sought judicial intervention and Judge Leonardo Castro granted an emergency order allowing the foundry to resume its normal operations temporarily. This decision has raised significant concerns due to the judge's lack of expertise in environmental science and public health.
Lead exposure poses severe health risks, particularly to children, affecting neurological development, gastrointestinal systems, and overall bodily functions. The MPCA's stringent stance against Northern Iron’s emissions is a critical measure to protect the community from these adverse health impacts. Sustainable Stillwater MN commends the MPCA for its resolute action in this case.
We urge continued vigilance and community support to ensure that Northern Iron meets its legal obligations. Together, we can advocate for a cleaner, healthier environment for all.
In moments like these, it's crucial to hold onto ecological hope. The steadfast actions of the MPCA provide hope that regulatory bodies can and will act in the best interest of public health and the environment.
By acknowledging and supporting these efforts, we reinforce the possibility of a sustainable future, where communities are free from the dangers of industrial pollution. Let's continue to work together, fostering a spirit of hope and collaboration for the betterment of our environment and the well-being of future generations.
Thank You Avonna Starck at the Star Tribune for reporting on this issue.
Read their full article here - https://www.startribune.com/credit-on-fighting-pollution-where-credit-is-due/600381800/
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