According to a report from environmental researchers, significant radioactive contamination has been found at an elementary school near St. Louis, Missouri. In some cases, 22 times the expected concentration was found in Jana Elementary School. Radioactive waste from US nuclear weapons production during World War II apparently leaked into a nearby river.
The report describes the contamination levels as “unacceptable”. “The Jana School, like many homes, institutions and businesses in the area, borders Coldwater Creek. This waterway was contaminated by leaking radioactive waste from the disposal facility, which began shortly after World War II and has not yet been remediated,” study author Marco Kaltofen said, according to CNN.
Remains of Manhattan Project
The debris in the creek is believed to have come from the Manhattan Project, which developed an atomic bomb in the 1940s. “Unfortunately, when Coldwater Creek floods its banks, some of that radioactive material is deposited on neighboring properties like the school,” explains Kaltofen.
Extremely high contamination in playground samples
The samples for the study were collected in August of this year from soil, dust and plants. These were collected from the library, ventilation system or surfaces in classrooms. The concentration of lead-210, which was discovered on the playground, is particularly critical. That was 22 times higher than expected. This substance can damage the brain and nervous system and slow growth and development. The possible consequences: learning and behavioral problems, decreased IQ, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and hearing and speech problems.
The environmental protection organization harshly criticized after the results were published: “There is no safe limit on bomb waste for our children,” explains association co-founder Karen Nickel. “This (note: the contamination) has been in our community for over 80 years. We expect the school board to persuade the authorities to clean this up,” a mother told St. Louis today.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
