What's Happening?
Sante Scardillo, a resident of Little Italy, has made the polluted waters of the Upper New York Bay his personal sanctuary, swimming there daily from June through November. Despite the presence of debris
and occasional encounters with sea creatures, Scardillo finds peace and inspiration during his swims. He began this routine 30 years ago, but it became more frequent during the pandemic when city pools were closed. While swimming in New York waterways is not illegal, it is generally discouraged due to health risks, especially after rainstorms when raw sewage is dumped into the water. Em Ruby, Advocacy and Policy Coordinator at Riverkeeper, advises waiting 36 hours post-storm before swimming to avoid illness. Scardillo, however, has never fallen ill from his swims and continues to enjoy the experience, claiming it calms him and sparks his creativity.
Why It's Important?
Scardillo's story highlights the ongoing issue of water pollution in New York City, particularly the health risks associated with swimming in contaminated waters. His daily swims draw attention to the need for improved water management and infrastructure to prevent sewage overflow during rainstorms. This situation underscores the broader environmental challenges faced by urban areas, where natural resources are often compromised by human activity. Scardillo's experience also reflects a unique personal resilience and adaptability, finding beauty and tranquility in an environment many would avoid. His actions may inspire discussions on urban waterway usage and the balance between recreational activities and environmental health.
What's Next?
While Scardillo continues his swimming routine, environmental organizations like Riverkeeper may increase advocacy efforts to improve water quality in New York City. This could involve lobbying for better sewage management systems and public awareness campaigns about the risks of swimming in polluted waters. Additionally, Scardillo's story might encourage local authorities to consider more stringent regulations or advisories regarding recreational activities in urban waterways. As public interest in environmental issues grows, there may be increased pressure on city officials to address these concerns and ensure safer conditions for residents.
Beyond the Headlines
Scardillo's daily swims in the polluted waters of New York City raise ethical questions about individual choices versus public health recommendations. His actions challenge societal norms regarding safety and risk, prompting a discussion on personal freedom and responsibility. Furthermore, his story may influence cultural perceptions of urban waterways, potentially shifting views from seeing them solely as polluted areas to recognizing their potential for personal and communal engagement. This narrative could inspire a broader movement towards reclaiming and revitalizing urban natural spaces.
