The Fight Against Putrid Odors in Southeast LA

#176: The small, industrial city of Vernon in Southeast L.A. is home to a number of rendering companies that process animal parts and other waste. The processing has led to complaints from residents who have reported a terrible smell that has irritated people’s eyes and throats.

A recent investigation by LAist reporter Julia Barajas including scores of interviews with longtime Southeast L.A. residents and workers – and data obtained through public records requests – shows that neighbors have complained for decades about adverse effects. One company, Baker Commodities, Inc. is now at the center of that fight.

Today, we speak to Julia about her investigation and the environmental issues that have long affected communities in Southeast L.A.

Guest: Julia Barajas, reporter for LAist

Read Julia's stories: 

Companies That Recycle Animal Carcasses Must Post Signs Saying Where To Report Odors. Compliance Has Been Spotty

How Decades Of Environmental Woes Have Hurt, And Mobilized, Southeast LA 

Companies That Recycle Animal Carcasses Must Post Signs Saying Where To Report Odors. Compliance Has Been Spotty