LANSING, Mich. — The state health department released health results Monday in connection to two Kalamazoo factories after complaints were filed regarding foul odors.
The factories in question are Graphic Packaging International (GPI) and the Kalamazoo Water Reclamation Plant (KWRP), according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
Tests revealed the odors are caused by hydrogen sulfide and other volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, MDHHS explains. They say hydrogen sulfide can result in elevated risk of nasal irritation, as well as temporary headaches and other conditions from other odors.
We’re told Kalamazoo residents first notified the state health department of the odors in 2020, prompting MDHHS to investigate.
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“We appreciate the trust of the community members who reached out about their concerns with regard to the odors they’ve been smelling and believe this consultation will provide information to help address their concerns,” says Director Elizabeth Hertel. “We will continue to be active in the community, collecting and reviewing air monitoring data as it comes in to watch for any additional hazards going forward.”
A public town hall meeting on the health consultation results is scheduled to be held at Mt. Zion Baptist Church Thursday, May 18 starting at 5:30 p.m.
Anyone who is unable to participate in the town hall may attend the availability session at the Urban Alliance scheduled for Wednesday, May 24. That starts at 1 p.m.
In the meantime, MDHHS advises community members — especially those with respiratory issues — to remain inside when odors are detectable. People with asthma should take all prescription medication as directed by their doctors.
“The City of Kalamazoo considers the public’s concerns over air quality emissions as a top priority,” says Kalamazoo Public Services Director & City Engineer James J. Baker. “Regarding the results of the Air Quality Health Study, Kalamazoo remains steadfast in efforts to address the presence of gases and their odors in air readings throughout the city.”
City officials say more than $5 million in improvements have been made to minimize odors coming from Kalamazoo Water Reclamation Plant, including:
- Installation of 16 EnviroSuite air monitors (10 in neighborhoods, 6 inside the plant).
- New investigative technologies for odors coming from larger sewer lines.
- Initiative to resize and adjust locations of pipes entering the plant from GPI.
- New processes to limit odors when loading trucks while reducing the number of trucks exiting the plant.
- Formation of the Ongoing Odor Task Force.
READ MORE: Kalamazoo packaging mill enters consent agreement for odor violation
