People are incapable of empathy for 5 to 8 million people but a cute puppy or kitten is so adorable we are glad they will soon be up for adoption in three weeks or so. This is human nature and not a sarcastic criticism. Well perhaps a cynical criticism. I know can't even count up to 1 million.

As for exploding and leaking Chemical companies:

Its legal and normal for chemical companies to refuse to tell the authorities what chemicals are involved or what dangers they face.
First and last responders are all left in the dark.

This system works well for real estate and chemical companies but not the residents.