The severity of water pollution in the lower Passaic River
Presentation Type
Abstract
Faculty Advisor
Greg Pope
Access Type
Event
Start Date
25-4-2025 10:30 AM
End Date
25-4-2025 11:29 AM
Description
The Lower Passaic River, located in New Jersey, has long been a focal point for industrial chemical pollution, with decades of contamination stemming from unregulated discharges by numerous industrial facilities. This study investigates the severity of the pollution in the river and the critical environmental and public health concerns associated with it. I hypothesize that the extent of the contamination is primarily due to a combination of unchecked industrial practices and minimal regulatory oversight in the past. These factors have led to the accumulation of hazardous chemicals such as PCBs, dioxins, and heavy metals, which persist in the river's sediments and water, significantly impacting the local ecosystem and human health. The long-term consequences of this pollution include the degradation of biodiversity, potential health risks for nearby communities, and a substantial economic burden for cleanup and restoration efforts. By examining the historical context of industrial activities and the regulatory landscape, this study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive remediation and stronger environmental protections to address the lasting impacts of pollution in the Lower Passaic River.
The severity of water pollution in the lower Passaic River
The Lower Passaic River, located in New Jersey, has long been a focal point for industrial chemical pollution, with decades of contamination stemming from unregulated discharges by numerous industrial facilities. This study investigates the severity of the pollution in the river and the critical environmental and public health concerns associated with it. I hypothesize that the extent of the contamination is primarily due to a combination of unchecked industrial practices and minimal regulatory oversight in the past. These factors have led to the accumulation of hazardous chemicals such as PCBs, dioxins, and heavy metals, which persist in the river's sediments and water, significantly impacting the local ecosystem and human health. The long-term consequences of this pollution include the degradation of biodiversity, potential health risks for nearby communities, and a substantial economic burden for cleanup and restoration efforts. By examining the historical context of industrial activities and the regulatory landscape, this study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive remediation and stronger environmental protections to address the lasting impacts of pollution in the Lower Passaic River.
Comments
Poster presentation at the 2025 Student Research Symposium.