Energy News Network writer Kari Lydersen reports on a recent national hearing about new coal ash regulations, at which U.S. Environmental Protection Agency officials were met with photos and tearful stories of deceased loved ones. In a nutshell:The EPA's proposed new rules, which would subject more coal ash dumps to federal regulations, were criticized for leaving many dumps unregulated. Concerns were also raised about the contamination of drinking water and the need for comprehensive testing and cleanup of coal ash sites. The big picture:Unregulated coal ash pollution poses significant health dangers to communities exposed to its toxic effects. Coal ash, a byproduct of burning coal, contains heavy metals and other hazardous substances that can contaminate air, water, and soil.

Source: The Guardian June 30, 2023 02:13 UTC