UC expert talks about rail leak in Cincinnati

Amy Townsend-Small, a professor in the UC College of Arts and Sciences, told the Enquirer that both chemicals are byproducts of oil. She teaches at UC’s School of Environment and Sustainability.

“These railcars that we see all over Cincinnati carry all petrochemicals,” she said.

Styrene is an organic molecule used in the production of Styrofoam and other plastics, she said.

According to the National Research Council, it is considered a probable carcinogen.

Townsend-Small said the likelihood of rail accidents increases as rail use increases. According to the Association of American Railroads, Ohio ranks fourth in the nation for the number of active freight rail lines.

And as the United States moves toward greener transportation, gas and oil companies are investing more petrochemicals in plastic production, Townsend-Small said.

The Ohio River is home to dozens of oil, gas and petrochemical facilities.

Read the Cincinnati Enquirer story.

Pictured above: UC professor Amy Townsend-Small said booming production of oil and natural gas has led to increased transport of toxic chemicals on America's rail system. Photo/iStockPhoto