The Right to Life

The United States government fails to protect the human right to life when it permits a hazardous industrial facility, or clusters of such facilities, to operate in close proximity to residential areas where people will die in the event of a catastrophic explosion, fire, or toxic spill at any one facility.

The Right to Health

By permitting the release of massive quantities of toxic chemicals from industrial facilities, the United States government fails to protect the human right to health of nearby residents who inhale, ingest, and otherwise come into contact with these chemicals on a daily basis.

Air and water pollution permits are issued by environmental agencies on the “presumption” that human health is protected by pollution control devices already in use by an industrial sector.

The Right to Racial Equality

Although the United States government has acknowledged the pattern of governmental decision-making that subjects people of color to racially discriminatory pollution burdens, it has not taken appropriate action to protect the human right to racial equality and non-discrimination.

The Right to Privacy/
Security of the Home

The human right to privacy, as it relates to the security of the home, is violated by the governmental approval of hazardous facility operations that relentlessly bombard nearby homes with toxic fumes and unbearable noises.