Boston, Massachusetts zip code 02128 currently carries a critical environmental hazard designation due to extensive industrial contamination. The area is surrounded by sixteen EPA tracked sites within a five mile radius, escalating to thirty seven sites within ten miles. The most significant threat originates from the Coal Tar Processing Facility (Former), located just 2.5 miles away. Additional active contamination zones include a nearby commercial property at 0.76 miles, the US Coast Guard Integrated Support Command, and the South Boston Naval Annex.

The primary pollutants linked to the Coal Tar Processing Facility (Former) are classified by the EPA as unspecified hazardous substances. However, coal tar processing historically releases volatile organic compounds and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons into local soil and groundwater. Prolonged exposure to these chemical classes can lead to respiratory irritation, dermatological issues, and elevated long term risks of neurological or cellular damage. Under the EPA National Priorities List, this facility maintains an active status, meaning federal and state authorities are currently engaged in site investigation, risk assessment, or ongoing remediation efforts, and cleanup is not yet complete.

Given the high concentration of active industrial and military cleanup sites, residents must adopt proactive defensive measures to minimize exposure pathways. Individuals should install certified reverse osmosis or activated carbon filtration systems for all tap water used for drinking or cooking to intercept residual volatile compounds. Residents must also avoid consuming fish caught in local urban waterways. Individuals should utilize raised garden beds with imported, certified clean soil for all agricultural activities rather than planting directly into native ground.