About Durham Lead Contamination Awareness
Durham Lead Contamination Awareness is dedicated to raising awareness about the presence of lead in the environment and its impact on the community. Our mission is to provide valuable information and resources to the residents of Durham, North Carolina, regarding lead contamination in public places, particularly parks. We aim to offer lead prevention tips to help individuals and families protect themselves from the harmful effects of lead exposure. Additionally, we are committed to fostering community engagement and gathering feedback to address concerns about lead contamination. Join us in our effort to create a safer and healthier environment for all. Together, we can make a difference.
North Carolina Central University
Environmental & Garden Club
1
Elevated Lead Levels in Soil
Soil testing has revealed lead concentrations in several Durham parks exceeding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) action level of 400 parts per million (ppm). For instance, Walltown Park exhibited lead levels ranging from 458 ppm to 3,480 ppm, with the highest concentrations found deeper in the soil. Similarly, East Durham Park showed lead levels between 723 ppm and 3,180 ppm.
2
Environmental Justice Concerns
The affected parks are predominantly located in historically Black and low-income neighborhoods. This pattern reflects past urban planning decisions, where waste incinerators were often situated in marginalized communities. The legacy of these practices has led to disproportionate exposure to environmental hazards in these areas, raising significant environmental justice issues.​
3
Ongoing Remediation Efforts
Addressing the contamination is a complex and costly endeavor. The City of Durham has proposed allocating $5 million in the 2024 budget for remediation efforts, though experts anticipate that the total cost will be much higher. The goal is to ensure residents' safety and restore these public spaces' environmental health.​
Get in Touch
1801 Fayetteville St
Durham, NC 27707
United States
919-837-9909