Steel mills face a lighter pollution cutback after intervention by Rust Belt senators
A group of Democratic senators from the Rust Belt challenged planned Environmental Protection Agency steel mill rules, citing concerns over American manufacturing's future.
Lylla Younes reports for Grist.
In short:
- A coalition of Democratic senators, including Joe Manchin and John Fetterman, voiced apprehensions that the EPA's proposed regulations on steel mills could stifle American investment and lead to job losses.
- The EPA's final ruling on steel mill emissions scales back initial proposals, aiming to reduce particle pollution by less, and omits a limit on smoke thickness from mills.
- Despite the reduced scope, the regulations are hailed as a step towards mitigating pollution, albeit criticized for bending under industry pressure.
Key quote:
“It’s a small step in the right direction. The steel companies mounted a real disinformation campaign about the cost of the rule that I think put pressure on EPA to take out some provisions that would have been beneficial.”
— Jim Pew, senior attorney at Earthjustice.
Why this matters:
Efforts to regulate steel mill pollution have met both support and resistance. Environmental advocates and communities affected by pollution push for stricter regulations, emphasizing the importance of clean air and water for public health and the environment. These groups often advocate for the adoption of cleaner technologies and more sustainable practices within the industry.
