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ABOUT THE COVER
Community Perceptions of Health Risks Associated With a Petrochemical Plant in Beaver County, Pennsylvania................................................................................................... 8
Hawaii and the U.S.-Aliated Pacific Islands are facing a climate change crisis that threatens the health, safety, and well-being of Pacific Islander communities. This
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Climate Change in Hawaii and the United States-Aliated Pacific Islands: A Call to Action for Environmental Public Health....................................................................14 International Perspectives: Preparing Future Environmental Health Practitioners Through Problem-Based and Community-Based Approaches: Experiences of Environmental Health Students ................................................................................................... 26
issue’s cover article provides an overview of the unique impacts of climate change on this often-overlooked region from an environmental public health perspective, as well as its vulner- abilities and resilience eorts. The article high- lights the urgent need for action and the crucial role that environmental health professionals can play in partnering with Pacific Islander communities to build climate resilience. See page 14. Cover photo courtesy of Gina Bare, National Environmental Health Association.
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May 2025 • Journal of Environmental Health
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Behind Every Safe Bite: The Stewards of Food Safety
CDR Anna Khan, MA, REHS/RS
A s I sit at my favorite corner table in Kimball House (a Decatur, Georgia, restaurant renowned nationally for its stellar oyster program) savoring the briny perfection of freshly shucked oysters, I am reminded of the intricate web of safety mea- sures that allow me—and countless others— to indulge in such culinary delights without worry. But even in moments of leisure such as enjoying a favorite meal, I cannot help but reflect on the unseen e orts of food inspec- tors and the vital role they play in protecting public health. Food safety is not just a regulatory require- ment—it is a fundamental public health prior- ity. Every meal we consume passes through a complex supply chain involving farmers, pro- cessors, distributors, and restaurants before it reaches our plates. A single lapse in food safety along this chain can have serious conse- quences, ranging from mild foodborne illness to outbreaks that impact entire communi- ties. In a world where global food systems are increasingly interconnected, the role of food inspectors has never been more crucial. Food inspectors are champions of envi- ronmental public health. They operate behind the scenes, ensuring that food estab- lishments comply with safety standards to prevent contamination and the spread of foodborne illnesses. Their work is meticu- lous and requires a deep understanding of microbiology, food-handling procedures, and sanitation practices. Every inspection they conduct helps safeguard the health of millions of people, preventing outbreaks that could otherwise strain healthcare sys- tems and disrupt communities.
nesses are not just compliant but also genuinely invested in serving safe meals to their patrons. By fostering mutual trust and cooperation, food inspectors and restau- rants can work together to uphold the high- est standards of food safety and ensure the well-being of the community. Moreover, food inspectors help manage emerging challenges in food safety. As new food trends such as farm-to-table dining and raw food consumption gain popular- ity, inspectors must adapt their knowledge and inspection techniques to address new risks. Changes in the climate can also play a role in food safety. Temperature changes and extreme weather events can increase the prevalence of foodborne pathogens. Inspec- tors must stay ahead of these evolving threats through continuous education and training, ensuring that their expertise remains relevant in an ever-changing landscape. Technology is also transforming food safety and the work of food inspectors. Digi- tal tracking systems, artificial intelligence, and data analytics are being increasingly used to monitor food safety compliance and detect potential outbreaks before they escalate. Food inspectors are now leverag- ing these tools to enhance their ability to track foodborne illnesses, identify sources of contamination, and improve overall food safety strategies. Despite their indispensable role, food inspectors often work under challenging conditions. They must manage heavy work- loads with limited resources and confront evolving food safety threats head-on. Their work requires resilience, meticulous atten-
Food safety is not just a regulatory requirement—it is a fundamental public health priority.
One of the most significant threats to food safety is foodborne illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) esti- mates that approximately 48 million people in the U.S. su er from foodborne illnesses each year, with 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths. These numbers underscore the necessity of food safety regulations and enforcement. Food inspectors play a crucial role in mitigating these risks by identifying potential hazards, enforcing proper food han- dling protocols, and educating food service workers about best practices. A strong partnership between food inspectors and restaurants is essential to maintaining high food safety standards and protecting public health. The role of food inspectors extends beyond routine inspec- tions. They are educators, advisors, and enforcers of food safety regulations. Many work closely with restaurant owners and food handlers to ensure they understand and implement proper food safety mea- sures. This collaborative approach helps create a culture of food safety, where busi-
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Volume 87 • Number 9
https://doi.org/10.70387/001c.137198
tion to detail, and an unwavering commit- ment to public health. They are advocates for consumer safety, often putting them- selves in dicult positions to ensure that food establishments prioritize health and hygiene over profit. As I finish my meal and reflect on the dedi- cated professionals who make these types of meals possible, I feel immense gratitude for the work of food inspectors. Their vigilance
allows us to enjoy our favorite dishes with confidence, knowing that every step has been taken to protect our health. The next time you dine out, take a moment to appreciate the unseen eorts of food safety professionals. Their work ensures that the food we eat is not just delicious but safe. And if you ever have the pleasure of enjoying a plate of oysters at Kimball House, remember the countless hands—seen and unseen—that
made that experience possible. Food safety is a collective responsibility, and food inspec- tors are its steadfast guardians.
akhan@neha.org
The food industry moves fast. The ğƛƯňȌğė£ƛŵĹğƣƣňŵŪñşͪHŵŵė®ñĹğƯǖ͢ £ͨH®ͣ credential keeps you up-to-date with the rapidly changing food industry and tells your community that you know the science and practice to keep them safe. Learn the requirements: neha.org/cpfs-credential
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May 2025 • Journal of Environmental Health
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Open Access
Community Perceptions of Health Risks Associated With a Petrochemical Plant in Beaver County, Pennsylvania
of greenhouse gas emissions. The production and disposal of plastics also play a role in the exacerbation of water pollution, including the degradation of plastics into plastic debris and chemicals such as polystyrene and per- sistent organic pollutants (e.g., polychlori- nated biphenyls) (Alabi et al., 2019). Nurdles can enter waterways through unintentional spillage during production and transporta- tion; nurdles are found in bodies of freshwa- ter and saltwater throughout the world (Jiang et al., 2022). Although surveys have been used to mea- sure perceived environmental health risk (Carlton & Jacobson, 2013; Rundmo, 2002; Zeng et al., 2020), little research has been con- ducted to measure how proximity to a facility such as an ethylene cracker plant influences change in perceptions by community mem- bers regarding risk. Moreover, data are scarce on perceptions prior to a facility beginning operations. The objective of our study was Jeanine M. Buchanich, MEd, MPH, PhD Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh Hannah H. Covert, PhD Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh Rachel E. Macias, MPH Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh Nicholas R. Tedesco, MS Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh Carla Ng Civil and Environmental Engineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh Brandy Byrwa-Hill, PhD Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh Maureen Lichtveld, PhD Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh James P. Fabisiak, PhD Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Center for Healthy Environments and Communities, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh
Abstract We surveyed residents in Beaver County, Pennsylvania, to explore their perceptions on health in the months leading up to the November 2022 opening of a petrochemical plant (specifically, an ethylene cracker plant) in the county. An online survey collecting demographics, self- reported health habits, perceived community and personal health status, and attitudes toward environmental health was distributed from July 2022 through August 2023. Descriptive statistics were generated and chi-square tests of independence were calculated. A total of 436 adult residents of Beaver County completed the survey. Respondents indicated concerns about their current exposure to air pollution (76%) and unsafe drinking water (65%). Approximately 36% and 25% of survey respondents indicated that they felt their health had been harmed by air pollution or unsafe drinking water, respectively. Perceived health and specific health habits were associated with agreeing or disagreeing with the statements “My health has been harmed by unsafe drinking water” and “My health has been harmed by air pollution.” These data illustrate that there is high concern about current and future exposure to pollution in Beaver County. These findings can assist community leaders in addressing and advocating for participant concerns about exposure to air and water pollution. A follow-up survey will be conducted to determine if there have been changes in perceptions since plant operations began. Keywords: air pollution, water pollution, environmental health risk, self- reported health status, community perceptions
Introduction Since 2010, the petrochemical industry and its related infrastructure have expanded. Ethylene cracker plants expose ethane derived from natural gas to high heat, result- ing in ethane splitting or cracking to form ethylene to produce plastic “nurdles,” tiny plastic pellets approximately 3–5 mm in size that are the building blocks for all plastic products and are shipped globally for manu- facturing (Jiang et al., 2022; Murtazashvili et
al., 2023). Despite progress toward reducing single-use plastics and increasing recycling, plastic consumption and waste production increased an estimated 60–99 million metric tons in 2015 and is projected to reach 155– 265 million metric tons by 2060 (Lebreton & Andrady, 2019). Plastic production generates air pollution that contains a variety of emissions (Ragotha- man & Anderson, 2017). As a result, in 2019 plastic production generated 850 metric tons
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Volume 87 • Number 9
https://doi.org/10.70387/001c.137190
to collect baseline demographics and health and environment perceptions of residents at the time the plant began operations. We focus here on associations with the environmental health risk perception statements: “My health has been harmed by exposure to air pollution” and “My health has been harmed by exposure to unsafe drinking water.”
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, other, White), sex, marital status (married/ domestic partnership, not married/single, other), education level (less than high school, high school diploma/GED, college or higher, other), employment status (disabled/ unable to work, full-time employment, not employed, part-time employment, retired, stay-at-home parent/caregiver, student), income level (<$20,000, $20,000–$29,999, $30,000–$49,999, ≥$50,000, prefer not to answer), and health insurance coverage (pri- vate health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Administration, self-pay/no insur- ance, other). Participants self-reported tobacco use and history of asthma, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), depression, dia- betes, heart attack, and stroke. A single-item self-related health statement was assessed by agreement with the statement: “My overall health is very good or excellent” (Bowling, 2005). Additionally, 12 health habits and per- spectives were measured, including: • Eating products from local hunting, fish- ing, or gardening • Using well water as their primary water source • Using a home water filtration system • Changing their furnace filter regularly (2–3 times/year) Environmental health risk perception was assessed by 13 statements. Responses to each statement were measured using a 5-point Likert scale and subsequently collapsed to “agree,” “neutral,” or “disagree.” Environ- mental health risk statements included: • Individual attitudes toward current expo- sure to air pollution • Individual attitudes toward current expo- sure to water pollution •Experiences of adverse health effects attributed to exposure to air pollution • Experiences of adverse health e§ects attrib- uted to exposure to unsafe drinking water • Existing and future industrial environmen- tal practices • Local government role and performance in addressing community concerns Statistical Analysis Submitted surveys that contained an invalid or missing ZIP Code were excluded. Cat- egorical variables were dichotomized as yes or no (the latter category included no and not
sure). We calculated chi-square tests of inde- pendence to assess the associations between the sentences “My health has been harmed by exposure to unsafe drinking water” and “My health has been harmed by exposure to air pollution” with the questions about envi- ronmental health risk perception. Statistical analyses were performed using RStudio ver- sion 4.2.3 (RStudio Team, 2023). Results From July 2022 through August 2023, the survey was distributed to 677 individu- als. Of residents who received the survey, 74% (498/677) started it, and out of that group, 93% (465/498) completed the survey. Respondents without a valid ZIP Code (26) were excluded. In total, 439 responses were included in our analysis. Survey respondents self-reported as female (54%), college-educated (82%), married/ in a domestic partnership (79%), having an income >$50,000 (64%), employed full-time (60%), and having health insurance (96%). The largest age group was 25–39 years (36%). A total of 81% of respondents reported that their health was very good or excellent. Depression was reported as the most com- mon diagnosis among participants (30%), followed by asthma (16%). Most respondents agreed with the state- ment “My health can be harmed by exposure to air and water pollution” (92%) and with the statements about concern for current lev- els of exposure to air pollution and unsafe drinking water (77% and 66%, respectively). More than one third (39%) of all survey respondents, however, agreed with the state- ment “Overall, I am satisfied with the envi- ronmental practices of local industry.” More than one half (56%) of respon- dents agreed with the statement: “Fossil fuel sources, such as coal or natural gas, are economically important to the future of Bea- ver County.” Three out of four respondents (77%) agreed with the statement: “Alterna- tive energy sources, such as solar or wind, are economically important to the future of Bea- ver County.” Approximately one third (32%) of respondents indicated that they rely on well water as their primary drinking source, and 52% of respondents reported never hav- ing had their well water tested. Many respon- dents reported taking preventive measures against exposures to pollutants, such as using
Methods
Study Setting This study was conducted in Beaver County, approximately 20 miles northwest of Pitts- burgh, Pennsylvania. Beaver County, particu- larly along the Ohio River Valley, has a history of industrial manufacturing, including glass and steel production, and is home to the Shell Polymers Monaca plant. The current site of the Shell plant was once home to the Horsehead Corporation zinc smelter, which at the time was one of the largest zinc refineries in the U.S. Since the opening of the ethylene cracker plant in November 2022, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has filed 15 violations against Shell due to their lack of adherence to state air quality guide- lines (Glabicki, 2023). Within 6 months of operation, the ethylene cracker plant already had reached its 12-month volatile organic compound (VOC) emission limit. Since then, Shell has been mandated to submit monthly emission levels, was issued a $10-million fine, and was shut down for repairs for 2 months (Frazier, 2023). Survey The self-administered online survey was developed in collaboration with members of a community advisory board and approved by the University of Pittsburgh (UPitt) Institu- tional Review Board (Study 19080112). The survey was disseminated via Pitt+Me, an ini- tiative of the UPitt Clinical and Translational Science Institute, and via community organi- zations. Participants received a $10 gift card after completion of the survey. Before enroll- ing, participants were screened for study eli- gibility criteria: being a current resident of Beaver County and at least 18 years of age. The survey collected demographic infor- mation. Participants were asked their age (≤25, 26–39, 40–54, 55–64, ≥65 years), race and ethnicity (American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Black or African American,
9
May 2025 • Journal of Environmental Health
ADVANCEMENT OF THE SCIENCE
a home water filtration system (53%) and reg- ularly changing their furnace air filter (75%). Table 1 shows counts, percent agreement, and statistical significance between the state- ment “My health has been harmed by expo- sure to air pollution” and the environmental risk perception questions. Respondents who hunted or fished locally and spent more than 1 hr outside each day were more likely to disagree with the statement than respon- dents who did not. Respondents who grew their own produce and filtered their drinking water were also more likely to agree with the statement: “My health has been harmed by exposure to air pollution.” Table 2 shows counts, percent agreement, and statistical significance between the state- ment “My health has been harmed by unsafe drinking water” and the environmental risk perception questions. In contrast to the pre- vious question, respondents who hunted or fished locally were more likely to agree, as were respondents who grew their own produce and filtered their drinking water. Respondents who spent more than 1 hr out- side, however, were more likely to disagree with the statement: “My health has been harmed by unsafe drinking water.” Discussion We developed and implemented our survey to gather baseline demographic, health infor- mation, and risk perceptions among adult residents of Beaver County. While we found widespread concern among survey respon- dents regarding exposure to unsafe drink- ing water (65%) and air pollution (76%), we also found support for fossil fuels (56%) and moderate satisfaction with local industry’s environmental practices (39%). Similar to a study in Southwest Detroit by Warner et al. (2023), our study highlights the importance of understanding community perceptions toward environmental hazards such as air and water pollution, which are exacerbated by industrial activities. Perception of one’s health being harmed by specific pollution sources is based on a continuum of evidence ranging from clinical findings to subjective impressions. Nonethe- less, it appears that as many as 25% of Bea- ver County residents felt they were directly aected by current levels of water pollution, and 33% of residents felt they were directly aected by current levels of air pollution.
TABLE 1
Agreement Between Environmental Risk Perception Questions and the Statement “My Health Has Been Harmed by Air Pollution”
Question
Agreement With “My Health Has Been Harmed by Air Pollution” Agree # (%) Neutral # (%) Disagree # (%)
Total
158 (36.4) 82 (39.6) 76 (33.5) 157 (36.3) 78 (41.7) 79 (32.1) 159 (36.6) 96 (41.7) 63 (30.7) 157 (36.3) 90 (46.4) 67 (28.2) 159 (36.6) 81 (35.4) 78 (37.9) 158 (36.5) 117 (34.6)
139 (32.0) 45 (21.7) 94 (41.4) 139 (32.1)
137 (31.6) 80 (38.6) 57 (25.1) 137 (31.6) 71 (38.0) 66 (26.8) 137 (31.5) 64 (27.8) 73 (35.6) 136 (31.5) 52 (26.8) 84 (35.3) 137 (31.5) 85 (37.1) 52 (25.2) 137 (31.6) 120 (35.5)
I eat meat from local hunting*
Yes
No/not sure
I eat fish from local fishing*
Total
Yes
38 (20.3)
No/not sure
101 (41.1) 139 (32.0) 70 (30.4) 69 (33.7) 139 (32.2) 52 (26.8) 87 (36.6) 139 (32.0) 63 (27.5) 76 (36.9) 138 (31.9) 101 (29.9)
I grow my own fruits and/or vegetables *
Total
Yes
No/not sure
I filter my drinking water with a pitcher*
Total
Yes
No/not sure
I have a home water filtration system*
Total
Yes
No/not sure
I spend more than 1 hour a day outside*
Total
Yes
No/not sure
41 (43.2)
37 (38.9)
17 (17.9)
I feel well-informed about healthy indoor air practices*
Total
159 (36.7) 101 (35.8)
137 (31.6) 80 (28.4) 57 (37.7) 139 (32.0)
137 (31.6) 101 (35.8)
Yes
No/not sure
58 (38.4)
36 (23.8)
I use well water as my primary drinking source*
Total
159 (36.6) 75 (53.6) 84 (28.5)
137 (31.5)
Yes
30 (21.4)
35 (25.0)
No/not sure
109 (36.9)
102 (34.6)
*Statistically significant comparison at p < .05.
Many more felt current levels had the poten- tial to aect their health. These responses were associated with specific risk-related behaviors; however, at this point we cannot determine if practicing specific actions such as filtering drinking water alters an individu- al’s overall perception of risk or if a preexist- ing overall perception of risk leads someone to adopt these specific behaviors. While the full impact of the Shell Polymers Monaca plant is not yet known, the number of Beaver County residents who consume locally sourced foods is notable. This find-
ing can help justify soil and water monitoring because a large proportion of residents are at an increased risk of exposure to contami- nants through their eating habits. The application of the “exposome” con- cept, as explored in a study around the Vasi- likos Energy Center in Cyprus (Kleovoulou et al., 2021), oers an innovative framework for comprehensively assessing environmen- tal exposures. This approach, which seeks to explain an individual’s environmental expo- sures over an entire lifetime, could greatly enhance our understanding of the cumula-
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Volume 87 • Number 9
the demographic characteristics of respon- dents were similar to the population of Beaver County, although survey respondents were more likely to be married and more likely to have completed a college degree than the general population of the county (U.S. Cen- sus Bureau, 2022). Future research should aim to address community concerns, strengthen collabora- tions among interested parties, and enhance environmental health literacy within the community to increase community engage- ment in these types of studies. From a pol- icy perspective, it is important to determine if current regulations are adequate to pre- vent adverse health outcomes from ethylene cracker plants and other industry-related pollution. In terms of public health practice, tailored interventions (e.g., environmental monitoring systems) should be implemented. Conclusion Our baseline survey of Beaver County residents reveals varying perceptions about current and future energy sources. This study emphasized the importance of engaging the community as soon as possible to assess environmental health concerns and perceptions that could help enlighten community needs. These data can guide advocates, policymakers, and health professionals, in collaboration with commu- nity members, to implement meaningful inter- ventions that address perceived health and environmental risks. These interventions are instrumental in enhancing public health. Acknowledgments: The authors thank the study participants and members of the Com- munity Advisory Board of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, for their support. The authors gratefully acknowledge the support of the Pittsburgh Foundation and the Heinz Endow- ments (Grants # E9030, E9178, G1131, G0871) and the support of the Translational Research Support Core of the University of Pittsburgh Center for Health, Environment, and Engaged Research. Corresponding Author: Jeanine M. Buchanich, MEd, MPH, PhD; Vice Dean, School of Pub- lic Health; Associate Professor, Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science; Uni- versity of Pittsburgh, 7120 Public Health, 130 DeSoto Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15260. Email: jeanine@pitt.edu
TABLE 2
Agreement Between Environmental Risk Perception Questions and the Statement “My Health Has Been Harmed by Unsafe Drinking Water”
Question
Agreement With “My Health Has Been Harmed by Unsafe Drinking Water” Agree # (%) Neutral # (%) Disagree # (%)
Total
106 (24.4) 62 (30.0) 44 (19.4) 106 (24.5) 63 (33.7) 43 (17.5) 106 (24.4) 61 (26.5) 45 (22.0) 105 (24.3) 67 (34.5) 38 (16.0) 106 (24.4) 69 (30.1) 37 (18.0) 106 (24.5) 77 (22.8) 29 (30.5) 105 (24.2) 66 (23.4) 39 (25.8) 106 (24.4) 59 (42.1) 47 (15.9)
115 (26.5) 39 (18.8) 76 (33.5) 115 (26.6) 36 (19.3) 79 (32.1) 115 (26.4) 68 (29.6) 47 (22.9) 114 (26.4) 49 (25.3) 65 (27.3) 115 (26.4) 47 (20.5) 68 (33.0) 115 (26.6) 86 (25.4) 29 (30.5) 115 (26.6) 68 (24.1) 47 (31.1) 115 (26.4) 27 (19.3) 88 (29.8)
213 (49.1) 106 (51.2) 107 (47.1) 212 (49.0)
I eat meat from local hunting*
Yes
No/not sure
I eat fish from local fishing*
Total
Yes
88 (47.1)
No/not sure
124 (50.4) 214 (49.2) 101 (43.9) 113 (55.1) 213 (49.3)
I grow my own fruits and/or vegetables
Total
Yes
No/not sure
I filter my drinking water with a pitcher*
Total
Yes
78 (40.2)
No/not sure
135 (56.7) 214 (49.2) 113 (49.3) 101 (49.0) 212 (49.0) 175 (51.8)
I have a home water filtration system*
Total
Yes
No/not sure
I spend more than 1 hour a day outside
Total
Yes
No/not sure
37 (38.9)
I feel well-informed about healthy indoor air practices
Total
213 (49.2) 148 (52.5)
Yes
No/not sure
65 (43.0)
I use well water as my primary drinking source*
Total
214 (49.2)
Yes
54 (38.6)
No/not sure
160 (54.2)
*Statistically significant comparison at p < .05.
tive health risks associated with petrochemi- cal industry expansion. By engaging a broad spectrum of interested parties, including local authorities, industries, and communi- ties, the authors demonstrated the necessity of collaborative eorts in addressing environ- mental and public health concerns eectively. Engagement with interested parties empha- sizes the importance of transparent and inclusive communication strategies (Kleo- voulou et al., 2021; Warner et al., 2023). This approach fosters trust and facilitates a more accurate understanding of health risks
and mitigation measures. Perceptions—par- ticularly those related to health monitoring and the dissemination of risk-related infor- mation—resonate with our findings, suggest- ing that Beaver County could benefit from adopting a more inclusive approach to risk communication and management. Limitations of our study include reliance on self-reporting and potential selection bias among individuals who chose to participate. A strength is that there were few missing responses, suggesting that the survey was an appropriate length. Another strength is that
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May 2025 • Journal of Environmental Health
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References
Alabi, O.A., Ologbonjaye, K.I., Awosolu, O., & Alalade, O.E. (2019). Public and environmental health eects of plastic wastes disposal: A review. Journal of Toxicology and Risk Assessment , 5 (1), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.23937/2572-4061.1510021 Bowling, A. (2005). Just one question: If one question works, why ask several? Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health , 59 (5), 342–345. https://doi.org/10.1136/jech.2004.021204 Carlton, S.J., & Jacobson, S.K. (2013). Climate change and coastal environmental risk perceptions in Florida. Journal of Environ- mental Management , 130 , 32–39. https://doi.org/10.1016/j. jenvman.2013.08.038 Frazier, R. (2023, May 25). Shell’s air pollution violations result in $10 million fine for Beaver County ethane cracker. StateImpact Penn- sylvania . https://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2023/05/25/ shells-air-pollution-violations-result-in-10-million-fine-for-bea ver-county-ethane-cracker/ Glabicki, Q. (2023, August 8). Inside Pennsylvania’s monitoring of the Shell petrochemical complex. PublicSource . https://www.pub licsource.org/shell-cracker-plant-pennsylvania-department-envi ronmental-protection-dep-emissions/ Jiang, X., Conner, N., Lu, K., Tunnell, J.W., & Liu, Z. (2022). Occurrence, distribution, and associated pollutants of plastic pellets (nurdles) in coastal areas of South Texas. Science of the Total Environment , 842 , Article 156826. https://doi.org/10.1016/j. scitotenv.2022.156826 Kleovoulou, E.G., Konstantinou, C., Constantinou, A., Kuijpers, E., Loh, M., Galea, K.S., Stierum, R., Pronk, A., & Makris, K.C. (2021). Stakeholders’ perceptions of environmental and public health risks associated with hydrocarbon activities in and around
the Vasilikos Energy Center, Cyprus. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health , 18 (24), Article 13133. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182413133 Lebreton, L., & Andrady, A. (2019). Future scenarios of global plas- tic waste generation and disposal. Palgrave Communications , 5 , Article 6. https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-018-0212-7 Murtazashvili, I., Rayamajhee, V., & Taylor, K. (2023). The trag- edy of the nurdles: Governing global externalities. Sustainability , 15 (9), Article 7031. https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097031 Ragothaman, A., & Anderson, W.A. (2017). Air quality impacts of petroleum refining and petrochemical industries. Environments, 4 (3), Article 66. https://doi.org/10.3390/environments4030066 RStudio Team. (2023). RStudio Desktop IDE (Version 4.2.3). PBC. https://posit.co/products/open-source/rstudio/ Rundmo, T. (2002). Associations between aect and risk per- ception. Journal of Risk Research , 5 (2), 119–135. https://doi. org/10.1080/136698702753499597 U.S. Census Bureau. (2022). QuickFacts, Beaver County, Pennsylva- nia . https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/beavercounty pennsylvania/PST045222 Warner, S.C., Sagovac, S., Godwin, C., Xia, T., & Batterman, S. (2023). Community’s perception on ambient air and noise pol- lution: A qualitative study in Southwest Detroit. Environmental Justice, 16 (4), 286–296. https://doi.org/10.1089/env.2021.0085 Zeng, J., Jiang, M., & Yuan, M. (2020). Environmental risk percep- tion, risk culture, and pro-environmental behavior. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health , 17 (5), Article 1750. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17051750
Stand out in the crowd. Show the world you are the environmental health expert you know you are with a credential. You might even earn more or get promoted.
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Volume 87 • Number 9
Standard Methods for the Examination of Dairy Products, 18th edition Edited by Jeffrey L. Kornacki, PhD, Elliot T. Ryser, PhD, and Cynthia M. Mangione; Managing Editor: H. Michael Wehr, PhD Standard Methods for the Examination of Dairy Products is a widely-recognized source of methods to assess the safety and quality of dairy products. It is an overview of microbiological, chemical and physical methods for analyzing milk and dairy products, designed for use by regulatory, industry and commercial laboratories. As with earlier editions, the 18th edition of Standard Methods for the Examination of Dairy Products:
9780-887553-3421, SOFTCOVER, 1144 PP, 2024
• Highlights test methods that are a critical component of both government and industry analytical programs. • Provides methods that foster uniformity in the testing of milk and milk programs. This new 18th Edition of SMEDP updates and expands upon earlier editions of this authoritative reference, including: • Comprehensive revision to chapters on antibiotic drug residues, pathogens, chemical and
physical methods, and methods for heat process veri cation. • Updates on both automated, and molecular-based methods.
APHABOOKSTORE .ORG
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Open Access
Climate Change in Hawaii and the United States- Affiliated Pacific Islands: A Call to Action for Environmental Public Health
Gina Bare, RN National Environmental Health Association Emma Erwin, MSc, MPH National Environmental Health Association David T. Dyjack, DrPH, CIH National Environmental Health Association
Abstract Hawaii and the U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islands (USAPI) are facing a climate change crisis that threatens the health, safety, and well-being of Pacific Islander communities. This article provides an overview of the unique impacts of climate change on this often-overlooked region from an environmental public health perspective, as well as its vulnerabilities and resilience efforts. The article highlights the urgent need for action and the crucial role that environmental health professionals can play in partnering with Pacific Islander communities to build climate resilience. We conducted research and key informant interviews between September 2023 and June 2024, which provided valuable insights into the lived experiences and perspectives of local leaders, environmental health practitioners, and community members who are grappling with the effects of climate change. By bringing together scientific data, case studies, and perspectives from local leaders and storytellers, this article paints a holistic picture of the complex realities of climate change in Hawaii and the USAPI. This nuanced understanding is essential for informing effective, equitable, and culturally appropriate interventions to protect the health and well-being of Pacific Islander communities in the face of the climate crisis. Keywords: climate change, Pacific Islands, environmental health, community resilience, Indigenous perspectives, public health
the palm trees’ withering branches, laughing, leaving swirls of dust but not even a spatter of rain. “We have angered the spirits,” the old women warned. “For too long we have taken from the earth, taken from the sea and have given nothing in return. Our greed has angered the spirits. Now our island’s soil grows nothing; our lagoon is empty of fish.” Slowly a distant thunder filled the air. The sun seemed to grow in size and heat. As the rumbling sounds grew louder, the island began shaking, the Coastal Erosion: This haunting scene is a stark reminder of the ongoing battle between land and sea, where rising sea levels and intensifying storms due to climate change are accelerating coastal erosion and threatening fragile ecosystems and communities on Pacific Island nations.
Pacific Islander Traditional Story of Courage and Collaboration The Micronesian legend, “How the Women Saved Guam,” is based on a retelling found in three collections coauthored by Dr. Nancy Bo Flood and published by Bess Press in Hawaii: Marianas Island Legends , Micronesian Island Legends , and Pacific Island Legends .
Nothing was left to eat. Children cried from hunger. Their empty stomachs hurt, hurt, hurt as they chewed on coconut scraps and fish bones. The taro had stopped growing. Even the banana tree gave no fruit. The island was thirsty. Dry winds teased, rattling
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Volume 87 • Number 9
https://doi.org/10.70387/001c.137192
people began crying, “Help! A monster fish is eating our island, boiling the waters, tearing apart our reef.” Men grabbed clubs and nets. “We must capture the beast and destroy it.” But every net was quickly ripped apart. The women gathered, watched, won- dered, what could save their island? The oldest woman, the maga’håga, stepped forward. “A stronger net is needed. We women must work together and weave a net of great strength.” The younger women bowed their agreement to the old one’s words. “Our net must be a sign of our respect and gratitude for all that the ocean and land have provided.” The women gathered in a circle. As they exchanged glances, they realized what their sacrifice must be. “Our hair is our beauty but it is also our strength.” The old one asked, “Those who are willing to o er your hair, bow your head.” One by one, she held each wom- an’s long thick hair and cut it. “Now we will begin.” All through the night the woman worked, weaving together the long black strands. Their voices chanted prayers of hope as they sang to their island, sang their apologies. With the first dim light of dawn, the weaving was finished. The women gath- ered up the enormous net and followed the old one to the water’s edge. “When the slippery one comes close, we will throw our net over its head and then everyone must pull, pull, pull with all your strength.” The women answered, “Yes, we can do this. The strength of many has become one.” A loud roar shook the island. The monster fish leaped toward the women. “Now! Throw now!” The monster’s teeth tore at the net. Its deadly tail thrashed the water. The women began chanting, “Pull, pull. Be brave. Be strong. Pull!” The net held. Rain began to fall. The people lifted their faces to the skies. They sang out thanks and then began a new song— how the women of Guam wove their beauty into a net of courage.
What was learned that day is told again and again to the children and the children’s children: Take care of each other, the land, the sea, and they will take care of you. The legend of how the women of Guam saved their island from a monstrous threat serves as a powerful metaphor for the chal- lenges facing Hawaii and the U.S.-Aliated Pacific Islands (USAPI) today. Just as the women in the story had to come together, making personal sacrifices for the collec- tive strength of the community, the people of Hawaii and the USAPI are now working to con- front the existential threat of climate change. The islands are already experiencing the devas- tating impacts of rising sea levels, more intense storms, coral bleaching, and drought—which together make up a slow-moving but no less destructive monster than the one in the legend. Solving the climate crisis will require courage, collaboration, and a willingness to put aside short-term interests for the long-term well- being of the land, the ocean, and the people.
the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), as well as the Freely Associated States: the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), and the Republic of Palau. Hawaii and the USAPI are facing signif- icant environmental public health challenges due to climate change (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2020). These islands are home to diverse Pacific Islander communities that include Indigenous Peoples with deep cultural and spiritual connections to the land and ocean. Keener et al. (2012) report that more than 77% of the 1.9 million inhabitants of the USAPI region are Pacific Islanders, a major portion of whom belong to Indigenous communities such as Chamoru, Chuukese, Kosraean, Marshallese, Native Hawaiian, Palauan, Pohnpeian, Samoan, and Yapese. These diverse Indigenous groups collectively speak more than 20 native lan- guages. The remaining population consists of individuals from various Asian backgrounds. Apart from Hawaii, all islands in the region are experiencing population declines and a grow- ing trend toward urbanization (U.S. Census Bureau, 2021a, 2021b, 2021c, 2024a, 2024b, 2024c; World Bank Group, 2025). The Hawaiian and USAPI regions span a vast geography of more than 2,000 islands, ranging from small low-lying atolls to large volcanic islands (Frazier et al., 2023). The total land area is only 14,060 mi 2 , but these islands define nearly one half of the entire U.S. exclusive eco- nomic zone. The region is also strategically important, with more than 24 U.S. defense installations, including the headquarters for the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (Figure 1). Background Many Pacific Islander communities are already experiencing disproportionate risks to their health, food and water security, live- lihoods, and traditional ways of life (Frazier et al., 2023). These vulnerabilities are exacer- bated by histories of colonialism, geographic isolation, dependence on natural resources such as fish, and limited resources for climate adaptation and resilience (Wasley et al., 2023). A lack of data in the region, stemming from exclusion in data collection e orts and rooted in historical injustices perpetuated by colonial and postcolonial governance, hin- ders e ective climate change response (Fra- zier et al., 2023). This data gap manifests as sparse and discontinuous climate records, a
Submerged Tank in Saipan: The submerged Sherman tank at sunset o Saipan’s coast serves as a reminder that this island has faced formidable challenges—from the ravages of war to the current threat of climate change— yet its people have always found the strength to persevere and adapt. Hawaii and the USAPI The USAPI include the U.S. territories of Amer- ican Samoa, Guam, and the Commonwealth of
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May 2025 • Journal of Environmental Health
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