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Franciscans in Action
June 2008 e-newsletter
Fighting for the Environment Franciscan Style at Siena College
Dr. Riobart Breen
Even in 2008 when pollution and climate change are such big social issues, most of us do not think about them until news programs report a major environmental disaster somewhere in the world or we must protect ourselves from one.
When Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, Dr. Riobart Breen of the Franciscan Siena College in Loudonville, New York started to wonder if his local community was ready to tackle any environmental challenges that might arise in the future.
Siena College, Loudonvile, NY
Accompanied by Siena College student Chris Kenney, Dr. Breen started to explore Loudonville and its environs. Testing the waters of nearby Kromma Kill Creek, he found high levels of various pollutants. A GPS search later tracked the source of the pollutants down to a defunct steel plant. The soil and groundwater in the area also showed traces of toxins.
Polluted water
The pollution in the Kromma Kill Creek has been having an adverse effect on the health of Loudonville residents as well as the town's flora and fauna for some time. The Environmental Protection Agency is working to counteract these effects with funds from the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act. Dr. Breen amd Mr. Kenney want to however also inspire their fellow town residents to be more proactive about the environment. Household chemicals, for example, might perform many useful tasks, but they also drain into local waterways where they cause a lot of harm. Without realizing it, the Loudonville community might be having a negative impact on the environment in which it lives.
We encourage you our readers to send in stories where you see the spirit of St. Francis at work in the world. Email your stories to Peter Rajchert at peter@franciscans.org.
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