In case you haven't heard, a power plant impoundment full of extremely toxic coal ash sludge in Eden, NC (across the border from Martinsville) has recently leaked up to 82,000 tons of this sludge into the Dan River. A couple months ago, the EPA proposed a rule to regulate these coal impoundments, but it will take years for this rule to be finalized.
More horrific images here.
This environmental disaster comes right after a tank leak in West Virginia polluted the water supply for hundreds of thousands of people. How many more times do the people of Appalachia have to endure environmental abuse for the sake of the pathetic and dying coal industry? One of my favorite things to do as a kid was fish and kayak in these rivers around my hometown in Appalachia. This is yet another disgusting demonstration of how poorly regulated big "C" Capitalism can wreak havoc on the innocent. The fact that we still use coal to produce 50% of our energy is beyond ridiculous....its a 19th century fuel for gods sake. Imagine if 50% of our population still got by on horses and buggies, and lit their lamps with whale oil!
This environmental disaster comes right after a tank leak in West Virginia polluted the water supply for hundreds of thousands of people. How many more times do the people of Appalachia have to endure environmental abuse for the sake of the pathetic and dying coal industry? One of my favorite things to do as a kid was fish and kayak in these rivers around my hometown in Appalachia. This is yet another disgusting demonstration of how poorly regulated big "C" Capitalism can wreak havoc on the innocent. The fact that we still use coal to produce 50% of our energy is beyond ridiculous....its a 19th century fuel for gods sake. Imagine if 50% of our population still got by on horses and buggies, and lit their lamps with whale oil!
EPA needs to finish this coal ash rule ASAP. If the War on Coal
is looking for recruits, I'll be first in line. Sign me up, Mr. President.
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