Written by Gena Denkov
During my internship, I’ve been reviewing material on our Toxic Pavement Sealants Landing Page and updating the Nontoxic Sealant Fact Sheet. In the process, I have learned so much about the hazards of specific sealant products containing high amounts of a class of chemicals called Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons or PAH’s and furthermore, ways to avoid them! I encourage you to do the same. I urge homeowners everywhere to educate themselves on the chemicals that seal their driveways. The composition of some sealants are linked to various health risks not only to the environment but also humans. Look through paving alternatives and if possible, extend the time between pavings for as long as possible. We need to protect our watersheds as our lives depend on it! As a Water and Natural Resources Protection Action Team Intern for the Defenders, I’m reminded everyday of this.
