politics
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America is stuck in a climate contradiction
The U.S. is funneling billions into carbon capture to slow emissions, but it may not save areas like Louisiana most affected by climate change.
In short:
- Louisiana is becoming a hub for carbon capture, seen by some as a solution to climate change, though it primarily benefits the oil and gas industry.
- Critics argue that the expansion of liquid-natural-gas (LNG) plants worsens climate risks, particularly in vulnerable areas already suffering from rising seas and extreme weather.
- Despite its potential to reduce emissions, carbon capture technology is unproven at scale and may simply justify continued fossil fuel use.
Key quote:
“You always try to keep creating new value for the future.”
— Gray Stream, CEO of Gulf Coast Sequestration.
Why this matters:
Carbon capture is a major investment under Biden's climate plan, but it risks prolonging reliance on fossil fuels rather than transitioning to cleaner energy, raising questions about its real impact on climate and health outcomes. Read more: 30 environmental advocacy groups ask PA governor to veto carbon capture bill.
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Credit: (Joenomias) Menno de Jong/Pixabay
Trump and Vance make misleading claims about Harris's energy policies in swing states
Donald Trump and J.D. Vance are falsely accusing Kamala Harris of supporting extreme energy policies during their campaign stops in key swing states.
In short:
- Trump and Vance claim Harris will mandate electric vehicle (EV) purchases, but no such mandate exists.
- They allege Harris is outsourcing EV jobs to China, though U.S. tariffs and incentives are bolstering domestic production.
- Trump warns of electricity shortages, but experts say the U.S. grid can adapt to rising energy demand with the right investments.
Key quote:
“Vice President Harris does not support an electric vehicle mandate.”
— Ammar Moussa, Harris campaign spokesperson
Why this matters:
Misinformation about energy policies can influence voter opinions in critical swing states. Fact-checking these claims is essential for informed decision-making ahead of the election.
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Mississippi limits discussion at solar summit as renewable energy advocates silenced
At a solar summit in Mississippi, renewable energy advocates were denied a chance to respond to regulators’ questions, sparking frustration among industry supporters.
In short:
- Mississippi Public Service Commission officials cut off comments from solar advocates during an open discussion at a recent summit.
- The event featured a speaker from a fossil fuel-backed think tank, while the clean energy industry had no official representation.
- Mississippi ranks low in solar energy production despite its high potential, generating less than 1% of its energy from solar.
Key quote:
“We want to hear from people who are not selling solar panels.”
— De’Keither Stamps, Mississippi Public Service Central District Commissioner
Why this matters:
Mississippi’s actions could further slow the adoption of renewable energy in one of the sunniest states. As climate concerns mount, stalling clean energy progress undermines national and global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
Related:
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Harris revises stance on fracking, raising energy policy concerns
Vice President Kamala Harris has softened her position on banning fracking, but oil, gas, and environmental advocates remain uncertain about her broader energy policies.
In short:
- Harris reversed her previous support for a fracking ban, citing economic growth through clean energy.
- Oil and gas industry leaders welcome the shift but seek more clarity on her overall energy vision.
- Environmental groups express disappointment, emphasizing the need for stronger climate leadership.
Key quote:
“There are so many other critical energy policies where the vice president’s perspective remains an open question.”
— Dustin Meyer, head of policy at the American Petroleum Institute
Why this matters:
KamalaHarris’ revised stance reflects a balancing act between economic and environmental concerns. As the election nears, her position could influence key swing states where fracking is economically significant.
Related EHN coverage:
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Credit: FracTracker Alliance/Ted Auch, 2023
The Gulf Coast’s LNG boom is making life unlivable for some residents
When Venture Global began building one of the world’s largest liquefied natural gas hubs in Plaquemines Parish, residents found themselves battling water shortages, clogged roads, and overwhelmed emergency services.
In short:
- Residents face deteriorating water quality, traffic gridlock, and longer emergency response times since construction began.
- The plant’s construction is straining local resources, pushing some families to seek buyouts and relocate.
- Health concerns are growing as pollution increases, with some fearing their town will become the next “Cancer Alley.”
Key quote:
“I don’t care if I have to live in a cardboard box – I want out.”
— Denise Orgeron, resident
Why this matters:
Beyond Plaquemines, this is a story of environmental disruption across the Gulf Coast, where industrial expansion is reshaping both the landscape and the lives of the people who call it home. Health and well-being are on the line, and many are starting to wonder whether the price of progress is simply too high. Read more: LNG production comes with a price, Gulf Coast communities warn.
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Credit: Michael Nowinski/Pixabay
Florida cities struggle with climate change as state policy stalls
Florida’s hottest climate and aging population are facing increasing heat-related health risks, but state policy shaped by Governor Ron DeSantis resists comprehensive action.
In short:
- Florida, the hottest state in the U.S., has no statewide plan to address heat-related health risks linked to climate change.
- Local governments and nonprofits are stepping in to fill the gaps left by state policy, though they lack sufficient resources.
- Governor DeSantis has blocked measures that address climate change, focusing instead on limited efforts to manage sea level rise.
Key quote:
“We must adapt to the warming climate, but the decisions we make right now, not addressing the root cause of the problem, is really unacceptable. You cannot adapt your way out of climate change.”
— Susan Glickman, vice president of policy and partnerships at the CLEO Institute
Why this matters:
Florida’s vulnerability to climate change endangers public health, especially for its older population. Without comprehensive state action, these risks will likely worsen, leaving local efforts insufficient to meet growing challenges.
Read more:
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Biden’s push for plastic as a coal replacement sparks environmental backlash
A Pennsylvania company’s plan to turn plastic waste into fuel for steelmaking, backed by a $182.6 million federal loan guarantee, is drawing sharp criticism from environmentalists who say the project is anything but green.
In short:
- The U.S. Department of Energy is funding a project to replace coal with plastic waste in steel production, claiming it will reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Environmental groups argue that burning plastic is not a viable climate solution and could worsen air pollution in disadvantaged communities.
- The Energy Department’s decision is under scrutiny as critics push for investment in cleaner, proven technologies like hydrogen.
Key quote:
“There are no steel mills in the United States that burn plastic. No one has any idea what the emissions profile of burning plastic will be.”
— Jane Williams, chair of Sierra Club’s national clean air team
Why this matters:
Burning plastic as fuel could introduce new toxic emissions, raising health concerns in communities already burdened by pollution, while potentially delaying the transition to truly clean energy alternatives. Read more: Every stage of plastic production and use is harming human health.
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