The grasp of big corporations, utilities, and wealthy individuals profiting from fossil-fueled power plants has been tightening for years. However, signs now suggest that this grip is loosening.
For too long, a select few have dictated where our power comes from, how much we pay for energy, and the quality of the air we breathe. With minimal regulation or accountability, they’ve fueled the climate crisis, resulting in extreme weather events that wreak havoc on communities. Those living near coal or gas plants bear the brunt of this pollution, facing higher rates of asthma, heart disease, and cancer due to toxic emissions.
Thankfully, the tragic legacy of coal and gas plant pollution is beginning to change. The Biden administration has taken historic action, implementing four crucial rules through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to address this issue.
These rules restrict wastewater discharge from coal plants, close loopholes allowing unchecked dumping of toxic coal ash, strengthen protections against hazardous air pollutants, and establish carbon pollution standards for power plants. This marks a significant shift, prioritizing clean air, safe water, and a stable climate for all.
The administration’s actions signal a departure from prioritizing corporate interests over public health and environmental protection. By holding corporate polluters accountable and incentivizing the transition to clean energy, these safeguards pave the way for a healthier, more sustainable future.
This progress didn’t happen in isolation. It’s the result of decades of advocacy and grassroots activism, demonstrating the power of collective action in driving positive change. As we continue on this path, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and continue pushing for a future free from pollution and the devastating impacts of the climate crisis.
