The Clairton Coke Works is the biggest emitter of H2S in Pennsylvania and is "likely a substantial contributor" to the stinky toxic pollutant in the Mon Valley.
It also found nearly 250,000 cases of asthma every year were caused as a result of the air pollution from coal-based steel, such as at U.S. Steel's Mon Valley plants.
Last year the Biden administration tasked federal agencies with considering environmental justice in their decisionmaking. Some say that isn't happening as planning for the seven new hydrogen hubs moves forward nationwide. Water quality in Pennsylvania streams is being hindered by aging dams, many of which are dangerous and obsolete. Climate-related weather like flash floods and extreme heat impacts people experiencing homelessness.
Also, an environmental group wants state regulators to tighten water pollution restrictions on a U.S. Steel plant near Pittsburgh which has released oil into the Monongahela River. Friends of the Riverfront released a new plan for recreation in Pittsburgh’s three rivers. PECO, formerly the Philadelphia Electric Company, has agreed to add solar energy to its mix of sources that generate electricity for customers in southeast Pennsylvania.
Our reporters say expect fossil fuels to be a huge focus, with the promise of "drill, baby, drill," slashing climate funding and gutting environmental regulations.
One of four notable swing districts, Pennsylvania’s 37th Senate seat could shift the balance of power in state government, with big implications for climate and energy.
What's at stake in the upcoming presidential race? Republicans say they want to repeal Biden’s big climate law, but the law also includes subsidies for a product oil and gas companies are interested in—hydrogen. Independent research after the East Palestine train derailment found many of the same chemicals that were officially reported in the aftermath. But researchers also found a number of other chemicals in places where officials were not necessarily testing. A group is trying to convince the neighbors to tackle yardwork more naturally.
Also, the Three Mile Island nuclear plant owner says it should be technically easy to restart after five years because all essential equipment is in good condition. Former coal communities ask the Biden and Trump campaigns for more investment. Vice President Kamala Harris would continue to develop offshore wind energy, but former President Trump wants to reverse course.
After the Homer City coal-fired power plant closed last year, residents of the Indiana County community are trying to make a go of tourism by cleaning up its legacy pollution.