In this mixture of air pollution there are at least 50 different toxic chemicals, such as benzene, lead, mercury, ammonia, and hydrochloric acid. The government sets standards for how much of a pollutant is allowed in our air at one time, but it only does this for six chemicals, even though many others cause cancer, birth defects, developmental disorders, and respiratory problems.

With the help of Clean Water Action/Clean Water Fund, a national, nonprofit organization that works with local communities to reduce health threatening pollution, over 100 residents in the lower Mon Valley came together in August 2004 to demand cleaner air and healthier lives. Membership with REACH Mon Valley is free and open to any interested citizens.