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Risks from Toxic Releases

This indicator tracks the relative risks to humans from toxic releases in Washington state.

The federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed the Risk Screening Environmental Indicator (RSEI) to analyze risks to humans from toxic releases. Whether a toxic chemical causes harm depends on dose and exposure, in addition to the toxicity of the chemical. RSEI takes all of these factors into account. The computer model takes the number of pounds of toxics emitted to the environment, analyzes their toxicity and risk to humans, and converts it to one score showing its risk ranking relative to other TRI releases.

                       Download data: RSEI Risk-related Score (by Chemical).xls
                                               RSEI Risk-related Score (by Pounds).xls
                                               RSEI Risk-related Score (by Facility).xls

Washington's RSEI score has been decreasing since 1998, except for the spike in 2000. This increase can be attributed to the fact that 2000 was the first year of lower reporting thresholds for a number of persistent, bioaccumulative, toxic chemicals.

Why should we be concerned about the toxic releases?

The amount of toxics released represents potential risk to human health and the environment.

What are the benefits of reducing the amount of toxic releases?

• Reduces risks
• Conserves valuable resources

What are some Beyond Waste Actions being taken to decrease risks from toxic releases?

Ecology (in partnership with other organizations) is:

• Providing technical assistance to businesses to help them reduce their use of toxic materials
• Collecting mercury-containing auto switches

 

Want more information on Risks from Toxics Releases in Washington?

        EPA RSEI Web site

        Chemicals in Washington State Summary Report 2004