EDITORIAL

Campaign needed against indiscriminate burning

The Asthma Association of Barbados has been recently trying to encourage persons to fill out a short survey on the practice of indiscriminate burning across the country, to likely feel out its impact on the Barbadian public. Some locals have gladly filled it out, as they continually long for some action to be taken, to stamp out this lingering detrimental practice.

Whilst the Asthma Association, health groups and concerned citizens groups have been doing their part to call attention to the bad practice of indiscriminate burning, it stands to reason that those who persist in the practice, truly need to be educated about the ramifications that come with the practice. Given the fact that persons are placing just about anything into their bonfires – from plastics, to tyres, to aerosol cans, to tree trimmings and branches and the list goes on – it should be obvious that backyard burning can be detrimental to nearby residents, given that it lingers in homes and in the surrounding atmosphere. However, the obvious seems not so obvious at times.

Now a little research will show you that the act of indiscriminate burning produces dioxins, which are potent toxicants with the potential to produce a broad spectrum of adverse effects, in humans. It also produces particle pollution, which sees microscopic particles released by open burning, that are small enough to get into the lungs and can cause numerous health problems. Also, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a problematic group of chemicals commonly found in particulate matter, or smoke and soot, released from backyard burning. Some PAHs are cancer-causing.

There is also the issue of volatile organic compounds, produced by open burning. Many VOCs are harmful to humans. Inhaling certain VOCs can lead to eye, nose, and throat irritation; headache; loss of co-ordination; nausea; and damage to liver, kidney, and central nervous system. Then there is carbon monoxide, another major pollutant generated which can cause neurological symptoms including headache, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Finally, there is the issue of ash residue, which can contain toxic metals such as mercury, lead, chromium, and arsenic.

That said, you will find that many countries have what is known as an Ordinance in place, regulating outdoor or open burning. The Ordinance also lists a range of materials which one must not burn in the open. The Ordinance is intended to generally safeguard the health, comfort, living conditions and safety and welfare of citizens. In many cases, the police have power to enforce the provision of the Ordinance and penalties are doubled for second and subsequent offences. Now, whilst burning rubbish that produces unpleasant smells, fumes or smoke should be a matter for the local Environmental Protection Department (EPD), it must be said that where a neighbour is not adhering to calls for mediation or not responding to informal approaches, the law should be used for protection. Hence, we should have some law or similar ordinance issued here or even a full scale ban on indiscriminate burning of refuse in the open, across communities.

Many persons have heard that indiscriminate burning causes a range of health and environmental difficulties, that it not only adds to air pollution, but causes problems for asthmatics, and those with other respiratory and bronchial problems, children included. Most have been told that it prevents others in the community from enjoying their surroundings, opening windows, and washing and hanging out clothing. Yet, many Barbadians will find something to burn, just for the sake of it. It is high time we take action against these offenders.

Barbados Advocate

Mailing Address:
Advocate Publishers (2000) Inc
Fontabelle, St. Michael, Barbados

Phone: (246) 467-2000
Fax: (246) 434-2020 / (246) 434-1000