The Hidden Dangers of Burn Barrels: A Growing Concern in California

Dioxins are considered some of the most potent carcinogens identified to date, and unfortunately, residential waste burning is a major source of these toxic air contaminants. In California, the Air Resources Board (ARB) has been focusing on this issue due to its significant impact on public health.

According to EPA estimates, about 2.2 million people in California live in areas where air districts have allowed some form of residential waste burning. This practice is not limited to just household garbage; many air districts also permit the burning of other materials such as paper, cardboard, cloth, and wood products. In fact, six air districts allow the burning of all types of materials, including household garbage, in certain areas.

Prior to 2003, nine local air districts restricted outdoor burning at residences to natural vegetation only, under specific conditions. However, even today, individual local air district rules vary regarding the types of residential waste that are allowed to be burned. This lack of consistency is a major concern, as burn barrels are often used for disposing of various household materials.

Burn barrels, also known as 55-gallon drums, are commonly used for burning garbage, paper, cloth, and wood wastes. While they may seem like an easy solution for getting rid of unwanted items, the reality is that this practice poses significant health risks to those living in surrounding areas. Dioxins, in particular, can cause serious health problems and even cancer.

The good news is that there are steps being taken to address this issue. The ARB has implemented the Air Toxic Control Measure (ATCM), which defines residential waste burning as the outdoor burning of waste, other than natural vegetation, generated by one- or two-family residences. This measure aims to reduce the amount of toxic air contaminants released into the environment.

In conclusion, while burn barrels may seem like a convenient solution for disposing of household waste, they pose significant health risks to those living in surrounding areas. It is essential that we take steps to reduce our reliance on this practice and adopt more environmentally friendly methods for managing waste. By doing so, we can protect public health and the environment for future generations.