The piece by Björn af Kleen delves into the environmental crisis faced by the Gowanus Canal, located between the upscale neighborhoods of Carroll Gardens and Park Slope in Brooklyn, New York. It highlights the stark contrast between the refined civilization of the surrounding areas and the polluted industrial landscape of Gowanus itself. The canal has been a site of significant contamination, raising concerns among residents and environmentalists alike.

The article further illustrates the presence of a toxic substance at the bottom of the canal, described as a black slime that poses health risks to both the environment and the local community. This situation reflects a broader issue of urban decay and environmental negligence that has historically plagued industrial areas across the United States. Efforts to clean and restore the canal are complicated by the extent of the contamination and the costs associated with such endeavors.

Kleen's piece serves not only to highlight the physical state of the Gowanus Canal but also to provoke thought on the impacts of industrial waste on urban areas. As communities push for cleaner environments, the challenges presented by polluted sites like Gowanus showcase the necessity for comprehensive environmental policies and the urgent need for action to restore these critical urban waterways.