#USA #Des Moines #Iowa #Coal Ash #MidAmerican Energy

Health Risks from Coal Ash Waste in Iowa

Recent findings from the Interdisciplinary Environmental Clinic at Washington University, released by the Sierra Club and Iowa Environmental Council, highlight severe health risks associated with coal ash waste produced by MidAmerican Energy's facilities. This analysis underscores the urgent need for regulatory action as energy companies push for the rollback of existing EPA protections related to coal waste, despite the evident dangers to public health.

The analysis focuses on the groundwater contamination observed around five coal-fired plants operated by MidAmerican in Iowa. Groundwater monitoring data was self-reported by MidAmerican under federal guidelines, and the results are alarming. The findings point to elevated levels of toxic substances within groundwater sources, raising concerns over the long-term health impacts for Iowans.

Coal ash waste, a byproduct of burning coal for energy, is classified as hazardous. It contains toxic pollutants such as mercury, arsenic, and lead, which are known to cause serious health issues, including cancer and neurological damage. Kerri Johanssen, Senior Director of Policy and Programs at the Iowa Environmental Council, stated, “The evidence demonstrating widespread groundwater contamination is troubling, and MidAmerican must take accountability and address this toxic pollution.”

Key Findings

Groundwater analysis from various sites reveals significant contamination:

1. Ottumwa Coal Plant: Groundwater testing indicates that lithium levels are consistently 6-7 times above the federal Coal Combustion Residuals rule since 2020, posing risks for gastrointestinal and neurological issues. Cobalt levels were found to exceed standards by up to 1100%, raising concerns of cardiovascular and thyroid problems.

2. George Neal North and South Coal Plants: In 2022, heavy metals including arsenic were detected above EPA standards in multiple ash ponds. Corrective actions have been implemented; however, recent reports indicate ongoing contamination with significant increases in toxic levels.

3. Walter Scott Junior Energy Center: Recent data reveals alarming levels of cadmium, lead, and molybdenum, with arsenic concentrations surpassing safe drinking water limits set by the EPA.

4. Louisa Coal Plant: Elevated radium levels in recent years are potentially linked with increased cancer rates due to long-term exposure through drinking water.

Despite claims from MidAmerican of transitioning to renewable energy sources, a substantial percentage (25%) of its energy generation still relies on coal. This paradox raises concerns about the company's commitment to safeguarding public health while maintaining its coal fleet.

Emma Colman from the Sierra Club points out glaring contradictions in MidAmerican's public statements, asserting that if coal were a food product, it would have been banned long ago due to its toxic nature.

Immediate Action Needed

The findings from this analysis call for urgent measures to mitigate and manage coal ash waste appropriately. The Iowa DNR is urged to enforce stringent regulations on MidAmerican’s activities to eliminate ongoing contamination and protect Iowans' health.

Efforts by the Iowa Environmental Council and Sierra Club are part of a larger movement aimed at holding energy companies accountable for their environmental impact and securing a cleaner, safer future for all. This coalition is advocating for a public plan to close Iowa's coal plants by 2030.

The situation is a critical reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by toxic waste management and the broader implications for clean energy transition efforts. As advocacy groups increasingly voice their concerns, the need for industry responsibility has never been more crucial.