Asia,
Australia,
Canada,
Carson,
Cancer Alley,
Chevron,
El Segundo,
Europe,
Fawley,
Houston,
India,
Italy,
Iraq,
Irving,
Jamnagar,
Japan,
Lebanon,
Lemont,
Lindsey,
Long Beach,
Louisiana,
Los Angeles,
Manhattan Beach,
Mathura,
Middle East,
Netherlands,
Pakistan,
Richmond,
Russia,
Salt Lake City,
San Francisco,
Shell,
Singapore,
Tavares,
Tesoro,
Texas,
United Kingdom,
Texas City,
Torrance,
Unit Arab Emirates,
Valero,
Worldwide
1. Overview of El Segundo and Manhattan Beach
- El Segundo: Known for its industrial base, which includes the Chevron El Segundo Refinery, one of the largest oil refineries on the West Coast. The city also hosts various aerospace and energy companies. This concentration of industrial activity has raised concerns about air pollution and its potential health impacts.
- Manhattan Beach: A neighboring coastal city primarily known for its residential and recreational spaces. Although it does not have major industrial facilities within its boundaries, it is close enough to El Segundo to be affected by emissions from industrial operations.
2. Sources of Environmental Concerns in El Segundo and Manhattan Beach
A. Oil Refinery in El Segundo
- Chevron El Segundo Refinery: One of the largest sources of industrial emissions in the region, the refinery processes crude oil into gasoline, jet fuel, diesel, and other products. The refining process releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs), benzene, sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM2.5) into the air.
- VOCs and Benzene: Benzene, a component of crude oil, is classified as a carcinogen. Chronic exposure to benzene can increase the risk of developing certain cancers, particularly leukemia.
- Particulate Matter (PM2.5): Fine particulate matter can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to respiratory and cardiovascular issues. Long-term exposure has also been associated with increased cancer risk.
B. Aircraft Emissions
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): Located just north of El Segundo, LAX is a significant source of air pollution in the area. Aircraft emissions, which include carbon monoxide, NOx, particulate matter, and hydrocarbons, contribute to overall air quality concerns. Some of these pollutants are known to have carcinogenic effects, particularly when combined with other industrial emissions.
C. Ocean Water Quality
- Beach Pollution: Both El Segundo and Manhattan Beach occasionally face ocean water pollution due to stormwater runoff, sewage spills, and industrial discharges. While these are generally not directly linked to cancer risks, exposure to pollutants such as heavy metals and chemical contaminants can have long-term health impacts.
3. Health and Cancer Concerns
A. Air Quality and Cancer Risk
- Air Toxics: The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) monitors air quality in the region. El Segundo's industrial base, particularly the Chevron refinery, has been a source of concern for the emission of air toxics such as benzene and VOCs, which are linked to an increased risk of cancer. Residents of Manhattan Beach, being in close proximity, may also be exposed to these pollutants.
- Fine Particulates (PM2.5): Research has linked long-term exposure to fine particulate matter to an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. The combination of emissions from the refinery, LAX, and vehicle traffic contributes to elevated PM2.5 levels in the area.
B. Water Quality and Exposure
- While cancer risks from water pollution in El Segundo and Manhattan Beach are not as extensively documented as air quality issues, concerns remain about stormwater runoff and potential contamination from industrial activities. Exposure to waterborne pollutants such as heavy metals and chemicals can have various health impacts, including potential carcinogenic effects over time.
4. Community and Environmental Responses
- Air Monitoring: Efforts by local authorities and environmental organizations have led to increased air quality monitoring in the region. Data from SCAQMD's monitoring stations provide information on pollutant levels, helping assess the potential health risks.
- Community Advocacy: Residents and environmental groups in both El Segundo and Manhattan Beach are actively advocating for stricter environmental regulations and reduced emissions from the refinery and other sources.
- Health Studies: Periodic health studies and cancer cluster investigations are conducted in the region to assess the prevalence of cancer and other health conditions potentially linked to environmental exposure.
