The long-overdue report on carbon capture in Louisiana remains in limbo

Louisiana’s task force on carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) has yet to submit its findings, five months past the deadline, leaving the public and officials in the dark about the potential impacts of the controversial technology.

Terry L. Jones reports for Floodlight.


In short:

  • Louisiana's CCS task force has missed its report deadline by five months with no explanation from its leaders.
  • CCS projects are progressing in Louisiana, a prime location due to its geological features, despite concerns about safety and environmental risks.
  • Opposition from local residents and environmental groups continues, particularly regarding the lack of proper scrutiny and potential health hazards.

Key quote:

“Even during the hearings of this task force, it became clear that the true aim here was dismissing or discrediting people’s concerns, not seeking to address them.”

— Jackson Voss, climate policy coordinator for the Alliance for Affordable Energy

Why this matters:

Despite a string of public meetings and a report due in February, the leaders behind this subterranean crusade aren't saying a word. Is this the future of environmental salvation or just another bureaucratic black hole? Read more: Climate activists pan carbon capture plans.

A person holding a pile of organic soil in his hands

Deep soils could hold keys to climate resilience

A new research center is investigating how ancient soils could help farmers adapt to climate change and a warmer future.
A person holding a level on a solar panel

Hosting solar can be a lifeline for farmers, but overcoming local opposition is tough

Local opposition to solar has long been an obstacle for green energy developers in the United States, but some communities are working to reverse local restrictions.
An anesthesiologist wearing a blue jumpsuit and face mask holding an anesthesia mask for a patient

Hospitals are rethinking laughing gas. Here’s why

Hospitals are phasing out centrally piped nitrous oxide after recognizing it as a potent greenhouse gas that often leaks before reaching patients.

A man wearing a red jacket and carrying a red bag walking through a snowy landscape

This simple metal tube helps scientists predict drought before it happens

We’re in a perilous moment for water, but the Church Sampler is one of the many devices scientists can use help us make better decisions.

Cameras mounted on a tall pole with a house in the background

Tracking traffic pollution transforms city climate policy

Using traffic cameras and phone data, researchers created a real-time emissions map — giving cities a powerful new tool to cut pollution faster and smarter.

A refinery viewed from above

Returning to the 'Carbon Coast'

A surge in liquefied natural gas exports is transforming Louisiana’s Gulf Coast, bringing jobs and industry growth alongside rising energy prices, pollution concerns and impacts on local fisheries.

A wind turbine towering over a forest

Blowin’ in the wind: How Nordic countries made electricity free

As wind and hydropower flood Nordic grids, electricity prices are plunging and offering a glimpse of a cheaper energy future.
From our Newsroom
Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro speaks with the state flag and American flag behind him.

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

silhouette of people holding hands by a lake at sunset

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

wildfire retardants being sprayed by plane

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.

Stay informed: sign up for The Daily Climate newsletter
Top news on climate impacts, solutions, politics, drivers. Delivered to your inbox week days.