The episode explores the various forms of environmental contamination impacting Memphis' Black communities, including toxic landfills, chemical manufacturers, and legacy pollution like the former Defense Depot.
The podcast episodes provided discuss various aspects of environmental contamination, focusing on the issue of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) or 'forever chemicals'.
These episodes highlight the widespread contamination of groundwater, drinking water, and local water bodies near military bases due to the use of PFAS-containing firefighting foams, as well as the challenges in remediation and the impact on surrounding communities. The Battle Over Military 'Forever Chemicals', Scientists try to prevent "forever chemicals" from being a forever problem, and Are 'Forever Chemicals' a Forever Problem? delve into these issues.
The episodes also touch on the presence of PFAS and other contaminants in consumer products and the broader environmental and public health implications, as seen in #2118 - The Black Keys and EP 10: There's Something In The Water.
Additionally, the podcast Lesson 7: Do It Again explores the environmental injustices faced by Black communities in Memphis, including the impact of toxic landfills, chemical manufacturers, and legacy pollution, demonstrating the intersectionality of environmental contamination with issues of systemic racism and environmental justice.