Creation Covenant Alliance

Developer Reaches Agreement With Community Activists for Former Philadelphia Refinery Site

HRP Group finalized a community benefits agreement for the Bellwether District site to cut emissions and boost the economy.
The first panels are erected for the “Bellwether District” as construction begins in April at the site of the former Philadelphia Energy Solutions oil refinery. Credit: HRP Group

PHILADELPHIA—HRP Group, the developer of the former largest oil refinery on the East Coast, has finalized an agreement with 16 community groups to reduce carbon emissions, raise the site above anticipated sea levels, and provide at least $8.2 million for local economic support.

The redeveloped site, now named the Bellwether District, will see continued remediation of petroleum-related contamination following the demolition of extensive refinery infrastructure dating back to the 1860s. HRP Group reached a community benefits commitment after 18 months of negotiations.

This site is set to become a logistics and life sciences hub with the first of at least 12 large warehouses already under construction. The refinery, a major air pollution source, closed in 2019 after an explosion and fire led to the bankruptcy of Philadelphia Energy Solutions.

Residents of surrounding neighborhoods, predominantly Black, are concerned about diesel fumes from trucks serving the new warehouses. While the end of oil refining is welcomed, there are worries over ongoing health risks from residual petroleum contamination.

Philly Thrive, a local group that supported HRP’s acquisition in 2020, criticized the agreement for inadequately addressing pollution issues. Philly Thrive’s campaign coordinator, Alexa Ross, expressed concerns about the impact of truck traffic on air quality.

HRP has committed $3.5 million for training and apprenticeship programs with the School District of Philadelphia, $2 million for other workforce initiatives, and $100,000 for tree planting in Southwest Philadelphia. HRP CEO Roberto Perez emphasized the commitment to environmental and economic sustainability in a statement.

HRP has removed millions of gallons of petroleum and hundreds of storage tanks and pipelines. For some areas, contamination is managed through capping soil and minimizing vapor intrusion rather than excavation.

The development site, adjacent to the tidal Schuylkill River, will be elevated above the 100-year flood level. However, the Clean Air Council warns that new construction may exacerbate flooding in nearby neighborhoods due to climate change.

The new agreement includes commitments to promote electric vehicles, adhere to LEED green-building standards, and install solar panels generating 60 megawatts of power.

The Philadelphia City Council has approved a 10-year extension of potential tax breaks for site tenants, contingent on school district approval. Council President Kenyatta Johnson supports these incentives for job creation.

Despite these efforts, Philly Thrive sees the overall plan as perpetuating environmental injustice for long-suffering residents, and vows to continue advocacy and oversight through its People’s Environmental Justice Enforcement Agency.

Original Story at insideclimatenews.org

Trending News

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