EPA starts tough job removing toxins from fire-ravaged Maui.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has embarked on an important mission to clean up toxic materials in areas affected by Maui’s devastating wildfires.
Responding to the request of the state of Hawaii and Maui County, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has assigned the EPA to oversee the cleanup efforts as the island community strives to recover.
“We do not currently have a cost estimate for this part of the community recovery process, and once the hazardous materials are removed, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will lead the removal of fire debris,” according to a FEMA spokesman in an email to The Epoch Times.
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“The goal of these efforts is to return clean, tested lots or properties to owners that are safe for rebuilding.”
On Aug. 23, EPA teams began the process of removing toxic materials from the disaster areas as part of the agency’s Maui Wildfire Recovery plan.
During this project, EPA teams will survey, remove, and dispose of materials that pose a hazard to human health and safety. These materials include paints, cleaners, solvents, oils, batteries, and pesticides.
”Ash and debris can contain potentially harmful contaminants like asbestos, lead, and arsenic that can be inhaled or enter the environment with wind,” according to an EPA fact sheet outlining the process.
Special Precautions
The EPA said it will remove asbestos and inspect pressurized fuel cylinders like propane tanks that require special handling, “especially if their containers are damaged.”
The agency has committed to disposing of all hazardous chemicals at a safe facility off the island.
On Aug. 10, Hawaii officials granted the EPA authority to access properties without permission from the property owner.
However, the agency clarified that it will only remove materials with the owner’s consent.
“These efforts will reduce potential threats to public health and safety and allow other agencies to remove solid waste, debris, and ash in the affected areas,” Maui County said in a press release.
As the remedial work continues, the EPA will utilize a chemical adhesive called Soiltac to prevent potentially toxic ash and dust from becoming airborne and contaminating water supplies.
Soiltac, manufactured by Soilworks and approved for commercial use by the state, is both non-toxic and biodegradable over time.
The product has a pinkish hue and contains a copolymer of vinyl acetate, ethylene, vinyl ester, mineral fillers, and protective colloid.
“The level of protection and types of controls necessary will vary depending upon potential exposure conditions,” according to Soilworks.
“Select controls [are] based on a risk assessment of local circumstances. Appropriate measures include adequate ventilation to control airborne concentrations. Where material is heated, sprayed or mist formed, there is greater potential for airborne concentrations to be generated.”
In a product description, Soilworks highlighted the advantage of Soiltac’s long, molecular structure.
“This structure links and cross-links together, allowing stronger bonds to be obtained. After Soiltac is applied and the water disperses from the soil or aggregate, a durable and water-resistant matrix of flexible solid-mass is created.
“Once cured, Soiltac becomes completely transparent, leaving the natural landscape to appear untouched.”
Damage Estimated in the Billions
Federal officials estimate the total damage from the Lahaina, Kula, and Olinda wildfires at $5.5 billion.
The Lahaina fire on Aug. 8 was the most destructive, resulting in 115 known fatalities and leaving hundreds missing, including many children.
Federal officials consider the Lahaina fire the worst natural disaster in U.S. history since 1900. The fire destroyed over 2,000 acres and an equivalent number of buildings, with 86 percent of them being residential properties.
Maui County officials have stated that while the fire is 100 percent contained, it has not been completely extinguished.
“The county will prioritize the safety, culture, and community interests of our community,” said Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen during an Aug. 29 Wailuku press conference with st
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