Distribution of Confinements
The placement of pipelines often follows patterns of environmental racism, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities:
- Many pipeline routes are chosen based on perceived political weakness, targeting areas where residents are less likely to have the resources to fight back.
- Pipeline spills or leaks, which release harmful chemicals into the environment, are more frequent in low-income and rural regions.
- Communities along pipeline routes face increased risks of water contamination, soil degradation, and the loss of natural habitats.
False Promises of “Safety” Pipeline companies claim that their infrastructure is safe but leaks and accidents are common. In fact, pipelines have a troubling track record of ruptures and explosions, often with devastating effects. These spills contaminate drinking water sources and harm local ecosystems. Furthermore, even though pipelines are buried underground, the land above them is frequently cleared of vegetation, disrupting wildlife and reducing the natural protections that forests and wetlands provide.
Concentration of the Profits
Reliable research shows that these pipelines aren’t needed because the capability to accommodate available gas supplies already exists. The Atlantic Coast Pipeline (ACP) project, which is owned by Duke Energy and Dominion Energy, will cost an estimated $5 billion to construct. By law, regulated monopolies like Duke Energy are guaranteed a profit on any infrastructure it builds. Electricity rates will likely increase, as they have already at the urging of Duke Energy on state regulators. Increased employment numbers connected to the construction and operation of the ACP are vast overestimates at best. Coal ash from Duke Energy’s operations is already disproportionately affecting low-income communities and communities of color along and around the ACP route. The utility has been resistant to safe disposal and sufficient clean-up, leading one to think it would be just as resistant in repairing environmental justice, health, and safety issues involving the ACP. The construction of export terminals to ship gas overseas by both utilities leads to the possibility of little gas and little benefit to the people of the state of North Carolina.
Ways Forward
Strengthened Regulations
Community Consent
Clean Energy Transition
Pipeline Monitoring
Protecting Communities, Preserving the Environment
Pipelines continue to endanger communities and ecosystems across the U.S., all while deepening our reliance on fossil fuels. As North Carolina and other states face growing climate challenges, we must prioritize a shift away from pipelines and fossil fuel infrastructure toward clean, renewable energy. Safeguarding the health of vulnerable communities and preserving our environment for future generations requires stronger regulations, corporate accountability, and a firm commitment to ending new pipeline projects.
