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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has rejected Alabama's plan for managing coal ash, citing inadequate protections for water and communities, potentially forcing utilities to remove ash from unlined ponds.
Lee Hedgepeth reports for Inside Climate News.
In short:
Key quote:
"Exposure to coal ash can lead to serious health concerns like cancer if the ash isn’t managed appropriately. Low-income and underserved communities are especially vulnerable to coal ash in waterways, groundwater, drinking water, and in the air."
— Michael S. Regan, EPA Administrator
Why this matters:
Coal ash contains toxic substances like mercury and arsenic that can contaminate water sources, posing significant health risks. The EPA's decision signals a potential upheaval for utility companies, who may now be compelled to excavate coal ash from unlined ponds—an expensive and logistically complex task.
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Nonprofit organizations MADE SAFE and Plastic Pollution Coalition released the new Healthy Pregnancy Guideto help parents-to-be navigate the challenges of making healthier living choices for babies and the planet.
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