Sludge Watch ==> Is sewage sludge 'safe'? Lack of evidence of safety

[Maureen Reilly]

http://www.republicanherald.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18212634&BRD=2626&PAG=461&dept_id=530483&rfi=6

Biosolids still lack evidence of safety
04/15/2007

To the Editor:

Brian Rich’s April 7 letter, “Mine owners’ use of biosolids smart,” is a 
dangerous, slanted simplification of an important issue.

There never was, and never will be, a “clear evidence of safety” regarding 
biosolids. Even regulators at the Environmental Protection Agency, whose 
ties to the biosolids industry should raise eyebrows, dedicate chapters to 
pathogen reduction in sludge.

The EPA maintains land application of sludge can be done safely. The public 
health question at stake is whether sludge is being applied safely.

The National Research Council, after an 18-month study, said toxic chemicals 
and infectious organisms may be present in biosolids and that federal safety 
standards governing sludge applications are outdated and inadequate.

So much for the “virtually unanimous” support for biosolids that Mr. Rich 
cited.

The EPA’s inspector general found that the agency does not have an effective 
program for ensuring compliance with the land application requirements and 
cannot assure the public that land application practices protect human 
health and the environment.

In Pennsylvania, state funding for conservation districts to test sludge 
sites had ended.

It is a mark of responsibility, not scare mongering, to question sludge 
applications.

I have introduced House Bill 792 that would enable municipalities to have 
sludge sites inspected, with the costs paid by the sludge applicator, 
landowner or sludge transporter. The legislation also would enable the DEP 
to make unannounced inspections of sludged sites when it receives a written 
complaint.

Citizens of Pennsylvania can put their trust in outdated science, inadequate 
regulation and Mr. Rich’s fairytale assurances. Or they can use their 
noggins and demand sludge oversight that protects their health.

Rep. Camille George

D-74

Clearfield County

Majority chairman

House Environmental Resources and Energy

Committee