Coal ash is the toxic byproduct of burning coal for electricity, which contains dangerous substances like arsenic, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, lead, mercury, and selenium, among others. Coal ash is the second largest industrial waste stream in the U.S., with around 130 million tons produced annually. It is stored either by impoundment (wet storage) or landfill (dry storage).
In North Carolina, coal ash is primarily stored in large ponds near power plants, often located in low-income, rural communities. These communities, already burdened by environmental pollution, face even greater risks as coal ash seeps into groundwater, contaminates local drinking water, and spreads through the air as dust. With 14 coal-fired power plants across the state, coal ash presents a significant environmental justice issue that disproportionately affects marginalized communities.
Ways Forward
Safer Disposal Practices
Increased Monitoring
Full Remediation
Justice for Affected Communities
Ensure that the communities most affected by coal ash pollution are prioritized in clean-up efforts and compensated for the environmental and health impacts they’ve endured.
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