Take Action:
We need you to act today to protect Illinois from becoming a carbon dumping ground. Due to Illinois’ unique geology and an influx of federal incentives, our state has the potential to become ground-zero when it comes to carbon capture and storage (CCS). Illinois is unprepared and unprotected, but proposed legislation, HB 4835, would hit the pause button on carbon pipelines until safety regulations can be put in place.
Your support is crucial in protecting both yourself and your community, from the proposed installation of CO2 pipelines all across our state. Take action today by signing up for CCS lobby day.
These pipelines, like any other, have the possibility to rupture, yet, the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has to implement new safety rules, leaving Illinois woefully unprepared for these Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) projects.
What is Carbon Capture and Storage?
The process begins at the capture facility, where CO2 is captured using energy intensive equipment. The captured CO2 is then compressed into fluid form and then transported via high-pressure pipelines. Following this, captured CO2 will be then sent off site for storage or use where the CO2 is then ultimately injected deep beneath the Earth’s surface into underground reservoirs, where proponents would say it remains indefinitely.
A Public Safety Concern
CO2 pipelines are a public safety threat. Currently, there are no established regulations that ensure a safe distance between these underground carbon storage sites and residential areas, including homes, schools, and other occupied buildings. A rupture in a CO2 pipeline, such as the rupture that occurred in Satartia, MS in 2020, can create deep craters, hurling debris into the air and leaking toxic plumes that can travel over a mile. These lethal clouds are an asphyxiant, and can lead to brain damage or death within minutes. Leaked CO2 can even render internal combustion-powered engines inoperable during emergencies, so medical vehicles may not be able to get to those who need care. First responders lack the training or appropriate tools to address a leak, leading to a dire environmental crisis where evacuation or rescue becomes nearly impossible.
An Environmental Concern
CO2 pipelines are part of a larger system of carbon capture and storage. While carbon capture systems aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, it is expensive, results in increased emissions of other harmful pollutants like NOx, SOx, and particulate matter, and may not capture as much CO2 emissions as promised. Additionally, while in storage, there is potential for leakage or rupture, which can contaminate our groundwater and soil while undoing any climate benefit.
What can you do? d
Show your endorsement by joining Prairie Rivers Network in attending CCS Lobby Day on April 17th in Springfield! A pre-lobby training will take place on Zoom from 7-8 p.m., April 11. Register today!
We urge you to take action to protect our communities.