Present & Future Conditions in New Orleans

Though it has been three years after Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans, the city is still dealing with the threat of human exposure to asbestos. Irreparable structures scatter the city and act as phantasmal reminders of the storm's destruction. Considering Hurricane Katrina was the costliest natural disaster in U.S. history, it is no surprise that New Orleans has yet to eradicate all of its ruined and contaminated structures.

Asbestos abatement is a complex issue, as federal asbestos regulations do not apply to the average homeowner. Technically, the states affected hold authority for asbestos programs and the Environmental Protection Agency offers guidance to minimize the possibility of toxic exposure. Because of the lack of regulation for asbestos removal, coupled with the risky methods of demolition and controlled burns, fears of asbestos exposure in New Orleans have yet to subside.

Recently, the EPA decided the most cost-effective way to rid the city of contaminated homes is to incinerate them while monitoring the air for toxic levels of asbestos. Legally, asbestos abatement should occur before burning a contaminated structure, but with thousands of irreparable homes left in New Orleans, many feel this is the only option that will assist recovery efforts. The EPA claims this is the best option since lab tests have shown burning asbestos at high temperatures causes the compound to transform into a harmless material.

Approval of these measures is contingent upon the passing of an asbestos abatement waiver for the St. Bernard Parish, which contains 5,000 asbestos-contaminated homes. Without the waiver extension, asbestos will have to be removed before the homes can be demolished. Parish President Craig Taffaro stated at a council meeting in February 2008, "If we don't get an extension, it will cripple our recovery."

In addition to the EPA's proposal to incinerate contaminated structures, the New Orleans City Council passed an ordinance in February 2007 that allows the city to demolish any property deemed a health threat. Started in August 2007, Mayor Ray Nagin's Imminent Health Threat Resident Assistance Program affords homeowners the opportunity to submit proof of abatement (for contaminants such as asbestos) to reverse the demolition condemnation. The city hopes these efforts will reduce future threat of human exposure to asbestos.

Though New Orleans continues to struggle with restoring a sense of normalcy, the future holds much hope that this historic city will be fully restored and revitalized. Mayor Naglin, city employees, and optimistic residents are working diligently to rebuild the city, and with the continued efforts of these passionate and determined individuals the city will surely return to its once celebrated state.