Addressing Issues Faced on the Gulf Coast After Katrina

Mitigating several challenges EPA faces addressing Hurricane Katrina could better protect the environment in the future from hazardous materials, such as asbestos and other toxic elements.

First, EPA did not remove hazardous materials from national wildlife refuges in a timely manner as part of its response, in part because disaster assistance funding generally is not used for debris cleanups on federal lands.

Second, because states generally have authority over landfill decisions, EPA does not have an effective role in emergency debris disposal decisions that could cause pollution.

Finally, lack of clarity in federal debris management plans and protocols precluded the timely and safe disposal of some appliances and electronic waste.