EPA announced a new rule that holds polluters responsible for both controlling and cleaning the coal ash from coal-powered power plants.

The Environmental Protection Agency plans to strengthen a rule that forces the clean-up of toxic waste from power plants. The agency announced a proposal that requires a safe management of coal ash dumped in landfills and ponds.

According to AP News, this new rule holds the polluters responsible for both controlling and cleaning the coal ash. Coal ash is a byproduct of burning coal. 

It’s extremely polluting and can contain mercury, chromium, and arsenic, which cause serious health issues in people.

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“Ensuring the health and safety of all people is EPA’s top priority, and this proposed rule represents a crucial step toward safeguarding the air, groundwater, streams, and drinking water that communities depend on,” Regan said in a statement. Many of these communities have been disproportionately impacted by pollution for far too long,″ he said, noting that power plants, chemical plants, and other large industrial sites are commonly located in poor and minority neighborhoods.”

If the rule is successful, it’ll protect underserved and minority communities that already struggle with pollution.

The rule is the newest step in the Biden administration’s efforts to reduce pollution. Last week, the EPA also imposed new limits on greenhouse gas emissions from coal and gas power plants.

Marina is passionate about sustainability and works to help ensure our planet stays as our home for a long time. She takes part in environmental conservation by recycling and not buying single-use plastic. When not writing, she can be found with her nose stuck in a book or trying out new baking recipes.

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