Data Point related to: CITY/TOWN
McIntosh - Alabama
McIntosh, Alabama, is a small, predominantly Black community in southern Alabama with a rich history dating back to the Reconstruction era (1865-1877). Initially known for its lush woods and abundant wildlife, McIntosh transformed dramatically with the arrival of chemical companies in the 1950s, including Olin Corporation and Ciba-Geigy (now BASF McIntosh). These companies exploited the area's natural resources and labor force, contributing to significant industrial development but also causing severe environmental and health issues.
Residents recount how their ancestors were often deceived into selling their land for minimal compensation, paving the way for the establishment of multiple chemical plants along Highway 43. Over the decades, these plants released harmful substances, including DDT and mercury, leading to the area's designation as a Superfund site in the 1980s.
The community has faced numerous chemical leaks, the most notable being a chlorine spill in 2017. These incidents, coupled with long-term exposure to pollutants, have resulted in high rates of cancer, respiratory illnesses, and other chronic health conditions among residents. Efforts to hold the companies accountable have been ongoing, with lawsuits and a federal cleanup order still under dispute.
Today, McIntosh is characterized by its proximity to chemical plants and the resulting economic and environmental challenges. Despite this, the community continues to fight for justice and better living conditions, embodying resilience in the face of adversity.
Type of Data Point - News or Reportage
Living and dying in the shadow of chemical plants - AlJazeera
Visit page of City/Town - McIntosh - Alabama
Inserted: 18-05-2024 21:05:56
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Cities - Villages and Towns in the United States
News stories from the United States
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Credits: Carol M. Highsmith, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
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