The technology known as “carbon capture” is an innovative solution that can help reduce carbon dioxide emissions, which contribute to climate change. This process involves removing CO2 emitted during the combustion of greenhouse gases and storing it in underground reservoirs.
New legislation passed by the Senate enables the state to regulate the carbon capture process and sets forth guidelines for compliance with the recommendations of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The state’s aim to regulate this technology stems from an attempt to avoid the lengthy permitting process typically associated with the EPA.
Representative Randy Smith emphasizes that this step is intended to position West Virginia as a leader in the application of this technology. He believes it is the first step towards avoiding potential disasters related to past industrial mismanagement in the state.
However, many people are concerned about the risk of CO2 leakage from underground storage reservoirs, which could contaminate drinking water sources. These concerns are understandable given the numerous cases of irresponsible industrial management in West Virginia.
On the other hand, opponents of this new technology argue that it perpetuates the use of fossil fuels, which should be avoided.
The bill has been passed by both legislative chambers, but it will now return to the House of Representatives to convince delegates to approve the proposed changes. Another important bill has also been enacted, which aims to introduce a ban on using the left lane without passing in situations such as passing a stationary police vehicle or avoiding a construction zone.
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The source of the article is from the blog agogs.sk