Rhode Island is a New England state located in the northeastern United States. It has an area of 1,214 square miles and is one of the most densely populated states in the nation. There are eight cities and 31 towns in Rhode Island, each with its own set of environmental concerns. But which is the filthiest? Let’s find out which location gained that dubious distinction and why.
Why is Providence the dirtiest city in Rhode Island?
Providence has been ranked the dirtiest city in Rhode Island by the Lawnstarter website, which analyzed data from 200 cities. Pollution was one of the indicators used to rank the cities, along with air quality, water quality violations, greenhouse gas emissions, annual excess fuel usage, and smoking rate.
This was paired with information about living conditions, such as the number of residences containing mold, mice, rats, and cockroaches.
Additional information about infrastructure variables, such as landfills and rubbish yards, has been provided. Finally, there is information on customer happiness, such as discontent with pollution and the number of citizens who consider the city unclean. Overall, Providence was ranked 69th filthiest city in the United States (out of 200).
What is the impact on public health?
Rhode Island was the home of the Industrial Revolution in the United States, leaving a legacy of contaminated soil, hazardous waste, and exposure to toxins. Currently, around 70% of Providence’s greenhouse gas emissions come from residences (natural gas combustion) and transportation (road traffic and shipping).
Air pollution affects people when they breathe filthy air, which enters their respiratory system. Chemicals and particles in the air can cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and mutations, affecting not only the lungs but also the heart and brain. Chemicals and heavy metals have already damaged the sediments of Narragansett Bay in Providence.
Mold development in homes can have an impact on respiratory health, triggering asthma and exacerbating other disorders including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Other people have sneezing, runny noses, and skin rashes. Rats, mice, and cockroaches can all transmit infections like salmonella.
The Effects of Dirty Cities on Animals
Pollution and environmental contaminants impact animals as well. According to studies, sulfur dioxide, ozone, particulates, and heavy metals can all harm animals. The current study indicates that the consequences include reproductive issues and decreased survival.
Harmful chemicals in marine settings, like those off the coast of Providence, have been found to have an impact on marine species’ immunological function and life span.
Environmental damage in Providence
The significant number of dump sites contributes to Providence’s high rating. The environmental impact of landfills can be severe. They not only emit methane and carbon dioxide, but they also harm natural wildlife habitats. Even plastic-lined landfills can seep chemicals into adjacent soil and water systems, contributing to marine contamination.
Clean up Providence
Providence is home to numerous environmental organizations. Providence Against Community Trash seeks to get back to fundamentals and prioritize quality-of-life issues. Save The Bay is a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring habitats harmed by pollution in Narragansett Bay. Hopefully, the efforts of groups like these will lead to Providence losing its status as Rhode Island’s filthiest city.
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