Don’t Drink the Dark Waters

Don’t Drink the Dark Waters

The film Dark Waters sheds light on real-world events and their impact on society at large, presenting the story of attorney Robert Bilott, played by Mark Ruffalo, as he pursues justice on behalf of a West Virginia farmer whose cattle were exposed to toxic chemicals from a nearby DuPont-owned landfill. The film portrays the discovery of the harmful chemical PFOA and its devastating effects on the local community whose water supply was contaminated, eventually leading to Bilott’s fight for justice on their behalf. Through this powerful tale, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the widespread impact of such hazardous substances.

Why is PFOA harmful?

PFOA is a substance that can be harmful to human health. It is important to understand what it is and why it can pose a threat to human health. PFOA, a chemical belonging to a group of chemicals known as PFAS, was discovered in World War II and commonly used in manufacturing processes for items such as Teflon, fire-extinguisher foam, waterproof fabrics, and carpeting. PFOA is not naturally eliminated by our bodies, and high levels of exposure to it can negatively impact liver function, cholesterol levels, reproductive and immune systems, and even result in birth defects and cancer. Almost every living organism, including 99% of human beings, contains traces of PFOA in their bloodstream. Therefore, removing this harmful toxin from our environment is necessary.

The present condition of PFOA pollution

Since Bilott brought to light the impact of PFAS, they have been regulated and American chemical businesses have ceased their production. Nevertheless, they are still being used overseas in the manufacturing of products that are imported to the US. Meanwhile, local chemical manufacturers have adopted substitutes such as GenX and PFBS that are stated to be more readily decomposable and eliminated from the body. However, the usage of these alternative chemicals is still a topic of debate.

Ways to reduce the hazards of PFOA can be adopted

The greatest risks from PFOA occurs when it seeps into soil and water supplies, such as the runoff from the Dry Run Landfill in Dark Waters. New Jersey has 1.3M residents whose drinking water is contaminated by PFAS. Areas where fire suppression foams were tested and industrial sites are likely locations where these agents were used. To avoid exposure to this family of toxic chemicals refrain from using non-stick cookware, avoid waterproof sprays and fabrics and consider a carbon filtration system for drinking water. Most importantly, public officials should be encouraged to take action on protecting drinking water supplies.

Urban Verde’s mission, in part, is to aid enterprises and communities in minimizing hazardous substances from entering the surroundings. As a proponent of environmental sustainability and consciousness, our goal is to establish environmental justice by promoting sound regulations and corporate social responsibility.