Scared to inhale

Address harm

Regarding “Living with pollution” (Page B1, Jan. 7), the article concerning pollution in the Manchester neighborhood is an example of the need for government and industry to correct past failures to protect the environment and people. In the more than 40 years that I have had business dealings within and around Port Houston this neighborhood has stood in the shadow of the port and the various plants congregated around it while being ignored by all. While the article mentioned that Valero had recently purchased some of the homes next to their plant, it is disconcerting that after all these years the local governments, such as the city of Houston and Harris County have not stepped up to work with and require the area plants to buy out all of the homes in this neighborhood. While we all have to deal with some pollution as a consequence of the need for petroleum and chemicals for our modern society, it is no longer tolerable for this situation to exist. The level of chemical contamination is excessive and a direct result of plant operations. However, no one should be allowed to purchase in the area any longer. An industry fund should be established to fund the buyouts and convert the land to industrial space with a large natural barrier of green space. An equitable formula of pro rata responsibility should be enacted by law without delay.

Royal Lunsford, Spring

Y--Chin Lee/ Houston Chronicle Toxic emissions from a Valero refinery in Houston’s Manchester neighborhood during Hurricane Harvey included 1,900 pounds of benzene, a volatile component of crude oil know to cause cancer. Manchester has more than 4,000 residents.