CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 17 (UPI) -- Residents say the export of Charlotte, N.C.'s sewer sludge to rural South Carolina is making them sick, and a study supports their claims.
A University of North Carolina study, published last week, found evidence that sludge used to fertilize farms can be unhealthy for people who live within a mile of the farms.
The study follows a public hearing held last month on the renewal of the utility department's permit to spread sludge on 6,600 acres in South Carolina's Chester, York, Lancaster and Fairfield counties, The Charlotte Observer said.
The hearing was packed with 300 South Carolina residents, who complained of nauseating odor and health problems, including vomiting and nausea, after sludge was spread on the fields.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sets standards for land application of sewage sludge, and regulates nine metals that can be toxic in high doses, the Observer said.
But other materials, like flame retardants, pharmaceuticals and steroids are not regulated.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg said it is proud of its product, and said the sludge meets the EPA standards and also meets an internal certification for environmental safety.
The state Department of Health and Environmental Control said it is investigating the concerns.
