Creation Covenant Alliance

Assessing the Public Health Costs of Coal in Steel Production

The closure of Shenango Coke Works led to a drop in local heart issues. New reports highlight coal's health impact.
Steam rises from a cooling tower at Clairton Coke Works, one of the world’s largest producers coke, in Pennsylvania. Credit: Scott Goldsmith/Inside Climate News

In 2016, the closure of the Shenango Coke Works, a coal-powered facility near Pittsburgh, led to a decrease in local heart-related emergency visits and cardiovascular hospitalizations, according to research by New York University. This study highlighted the health risks posed by coke, a coal derivative used in steelmaking.

A recent report quantifies the health costs of coal-reliant steelmaking across the U.S. It reveals cancer rates near these plants are 12% higher than national averages and 26% higher near coke facilities. Toxic byproducts like sulfur dioxide and lead exacerbate asthma symptoms in these areas.

Data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Emissions Inventory indicates this sector incurs $6.9-$13.2 billion annually in health impacts, including premature deaths and economic losses of $137 million due to missed workdays. Globally, coal-based steelmaking contributes 11% of greenhouse gas emissions.

Currently, the U.S. hosts seven coal-based steel plants and ten coke plants, mainly in the Midwest and Appalachia. Most American steel is now produced in electric arc furnaces, a cleaner method using recycled scrap steel. Kevin Dempsey, CEO of the American Steel and Iron Institute, asserts the industry’s commitment to reducing emissions.

Hilary Lewis of Industrious Labs, which produced the report, expressed surprise at the significant impact of the remaining facilities. Despite being fewer in number, these plants continue to produce steel with traditional, coal-heavy methods, affecting nearby communities.

Industrious Labs aims to provide communities with pollution data. Residents in areas like Gary, Indiana, often lack awareness of the pollutants from nearby plants.

“A lot of times people are led to believe that it’s genetics, and that’s a narrative that must change.”

— Germaine Patterson, a community health worker

Germaine Patterson, a health worker in Clairton, Pennsylvania, noted the health effects from living near coke plants are well-known locally. However, the report’s findings on asthma and premature deaths were unexpected. Patterson hopes the data will prompt policy changes for better health protections.

The report advocates for transitioning to green steelmaking using direct reduced iron and renewable energy, which can cut emissions by 95%. Lewis emphasizes investing in this transition to revitalize steel communities and improve public health outcomes.

Dempsey highlighted ongoing investments in direct reduced iron and collaborations with the Department of Energy to advance green steel initiatives. New facilities in Ohio, Ontario, and Sweden exemplify the potential of green steel technology.

Original Story at insideclimatenews.org

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024