LA's long, troubled history with urban oil drilling is nearing an end after years of health concerns
- Written by Jill Johnston, Associate Professor of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California
Active oil wells can often be found next door to homes, office buildings and even schools.David McNew/Getty ImagesLos Angeles had oil wells pumping in its neighborhoods when Hollywood was in its infancy, and thousands of active wells still dot the city.
These wells can emit toxic chemicals such as benzene and other irritants into the air, often...