Letter: Petrochemicals increasingly threaten our health

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • July 6, 2024

Many are unaware that air pollution from burning fossil fuels and the chemicals released by their use is a health threat. Since 1990, there has been a 28% to 150% increase in diabetes, chronic lung disease, cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders. Experts believe petrochemicals have contributed to these increases. Since the 1950s, petrochemical production has increased 15 times and is rising. Improve your chances of good health by telling legislators to support a price on carbon to energize a rapid transition to renewables. Also, ask legislators to regulate existing chemicals and research chemicals before they are released on the public. ~ Nancy Hasenfus, Brunswick