THROUGHOUT Torfaen we have a minority of people who are burning their rubbish instead of recycling it. The burning of such waste is harmful to our health because when plastic is burnt harmful quantities of dioxins,a group of highly toxic chemicals, are emitted. Dioxins are carcinogenic and are hormone disruptor’s, persistent and they can accumulate in our body fat.

Current research indicates that the burning of household waste can also increase the risk of heart disease, aggravate respiratory ailments such as asthma and emphysema, and cause rashes, nausea or headaches and can damage the nervous system. Styrene gas can readily be absorbed through the skin and lungs and can damage the eyes and mucous membranes. Long term exposure can effect the central nervous system, causing headaches, fatigue, weakness and depression.

Not only the people burning the rubbish are exposed to these pollutants but they are also polluting their neighbours, families and children. On a summer’s evening it’s worrying to think children and babies sleeping in their bedrooms with windows open could be exposed to smoke from the burning of plastics, styrene foam etc which is poisonous and carcinogenic!

Perhaps the environment department of Torfaen council and councillors could take action to put a stop to the above. At least an informative leaflet could be produced and distributed? Please recycle and put the rest in the bin.

Terry Banfield
Cardigan Crescent
Cwmbran