Drax pellet mill wins appeal to raise pollution limits in small Mississippi town

Mongabay
Mongabay
2M ago
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Drax's Amite BioEnergy pellet mill in Gloster, Mississippi, won an appeal to increase pollution limits, reversing a previous decision that favored local residents. This matters as it raises concerns about health risks from hazardous emissions in a vulnerable community.
Drax pellet mill wins appeal to raise pollution limits in small Mississippi town
A What happened
In a controversial decision, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has granted Drax's Amite BioEnergy pellet mill in Gloster, Mississippi, permission to increase its pollution limits. This decision comes after the DEQ had previously sided with local residents, who have long expressed concerns about the health impacts of emissions from the facility. Drax has been fined over $2.75 million for exceeding toxic emissions limits since 2016. Despite community opposition and a federal lawsuit alleging violations of the Clean Air Act, the DEQ has reclassified Drax as a major emitter of hazardous air pollutants, allowing it to legally emit more pollutants. Drax claims to have invested in advanced pollution control technology, but residents report ongoing health issues and environmental degradation. The reversal has sparked further community outrage and calls for accountability.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Community Health Risks: Residents near Drax's plant report health issues linked to emissions.

  • 2

    Regulatory Controversy: DEQ's decision raises questions about environmental oversight.

  • 3

    Pollution Control Technology: Drax claims to have invested in technology to reduce emissions.

Takeaways

The DEQ's decision to allow Drax to increase its pollution limits has intensified community concerns about health risks and environmental justice. As residents prepare for a federal lawsuit, the situation highlights the ongoing struggle between industrial interests and public health in vulnerable communities.

Topics

Health & Medicine Public Health Climate & Environment Climate Change