Sept. 4, 2019 -- In July, WebMD and Georgia Health News published a story that detailed how three census tracts in the state were at higher risk of cancer because of toxic emissions from two nearby medical sterilization plants. The higher risks from the gas -- ethylene oxide -- were detailed in an Environmental Protection Agency report published in 2018. The EPA at the time did not notify the public of its findings, a fact that sparked public outrage and scrutiny from government officials.
Original story:
Residents Unaware of Cancer-Causing Toxin in Air
WebMD and Georgia Health News continue to cover developments in this ongoing story. Articles are listed in chronological order, with the newest first.
Ethylene Oxide Emission Plan Called 'Weak'
FDA: Plant Closings Could Cause Device Shortages
In a Last-Minute Deal, BD Avoids Long Shutdown
Georgia Sues to Close Sterilization Plant
City: Shutter Plant Until Toxic Air Addressed
Georgia Plant Reports 8-Day Ethylene Oxide Link
Early Georgia Air Test Results Raise Questions
Atlanta Sterilizer Closes as Locals Plan Air Tests
Georgia Investigates Toxic Gas Leak at Smyrna Plant
State’s Legal Moves Cause Mixed Messages on Toxic Air
Georgia Residents Demand State Act on Toxic Air
Local Air Testing For Toxic Gas Closer to Reality
State Oks New Plan to Cut Toxic Pollution at Plant
Covington Citizens Urge Testing for Toxic Pollution
GA Governor to Investigate Toxic Air at Plants
Georgia City Pledges to Test Air for Toxic Gas