Unit 21 Environmental Issues Flashcards
Define asbestos
A mineral once used in insulation and other materials that can cause respiratory diseases. 405
Define brownfields
Defunct, derelict, or abandoned commercial or industrial sites; many have toxic wastes. 414
Define carbon monoxide (CO)
A colorless, odorless gas that occurs as a by-product of fuel combustion that may result in death in poorly ventilated areas. 410
Define chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
Nontoxic, nonflammable chemicals containing atoms of carbon, chlorine, and fluorine, such as air conditioners and refrigerators. CFCs are safe in application but cause ozone depletion. 411
Define Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA)
A federal law administered by the Environmental Protection Agency that establishes a process for identifying parties responsible for creating hazardous waste sites, forcing liable parties to clean up toxic sites, bringing legal action against responsible parties, and funding the abatement of toxic sites. See also Superfund. 416
Define encapsulation
A method of controlling environmental contamination by sealing off a dangerous substance, such as asbestos. 405
Define environmental impact statement (EIS)
A statement that details the impact a project will have on the environment. 419
Define underground storage tanks (USTs)
Commonly found on sites where petroleum products are used or where gas stations and auto repair shops are located, and subject to federal and state regulations. In residential areas, tanks are used to store heating oil. Over time, neglected tanks may leak hazardous substances into the environment. 413
Define urea-formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI)
Insulating foam that can release harmful formaldehyde gases. Formaldehyde causes some individuals to suffer respiratory problems, as well as eye and skin irritations. 410
Define water table
The natural level at which the ground is saturated. The water table may be several hundred feet underground or near the surface. 412
Define sick building syndrome (SBS)
An illness caused by poor air quality, typically in large commercial buildings. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, headache, and sensitivity to odors. 378
Define Small Business Liability Relief and Brownfields Revitalization Act
Law that provides funds to assess and clean up brownfields, clarifies liability protections, and provides tax incentives toward enhancing state and tribal response programs (also known as Brownfields Law). 415
