Wildfires generated 4.5 million tons of waste in January, contaminating Santa Monica beaches with toxic ash and debris. Despite being near the Pacific Ocean, the unique smell of soot and ash is overpowering, posing a significant threat to public health.
The Los Angeles County Public Works reported that the January wildfires produced nearly half of the county’s typical annual waste total. Many electronic devices, cars, and buildings contain hazardous materials that can produce toxic fumes when burned. The presence of asbestos in old homes built between 1930 and 1950 adds to the contamination risk.
Heal the Bay’s beach report card shows general advisory cautions on nearly every beach between Marina del Rey and Malibu, with several sections of Santa Monica beach receiving an “F rating.” Ashley Oelsen, a member of the Santa Monica Commission, emphasized the urgent need for action, stating that daily delays allow contaminants to spread into the marine ecosystem.
Oelsen warned that the toxins in wildfire ash include heavy metals, asbestos, and dioxins, which can mix into the sand and disperse with ocean currents. She urged the city to deploy clean-up crews, conduct water and sand testing, and coordinate with environmental experts to address the contamination before it’s too late.
The City of Santa Monica lacks equipment for a large-scale beach cleanup, making county and federal assistance crucial. A virtual town hall meeting on February 18 will discuss post-fire air, soil, and water assessment, including potential beach contamination. The city is expected to receive test results soon, providing clarity on the extent of the contamination.
Until then, beachgoers are advised to wear shoes, stay out of the water, and not let their children play in the debris. A mask may be a good idea when walking along the shoreline.
Source: https://smdp.com/news/environment/wildfire-debris-build-up-on-our-beaches-could-equate-to-an-ecological-disaster