Creation Covenant Alliance

Carbon Capture Pipelines Represent a Poor Investment

A sign opposing proposed carbon - capture pipelines

Industry Influence Stalls Anti-Pipeline Legislation in Iowa Despite Widespread Opposition

In Iowa, wealthy pipeline interests appear to have a significant influence on the state’s most powerful lawmakers, leading to a years-long battle against a sprawling carbon dioxide pipeline project designed to traverse the state. Kim Junker, a local farmer who owns land in Grundy and Butler Counties, describes this as a “David versus Goliath” fight, with the irony that the opposing side—consisting of farmers, landowners, environmentalists, county supervisors, and attorneys—outnumbers the proponents.

Junker is among the Iowans challenging the pipelines and the use of eminent domain to seize people’s land for these projects, a coalition that crosses all party lines. She identifies as a Republican-raised conservative who is also a conservationist.

An anti-pipeline bill that was popular with the public was in front of legislators this year. It aimed to safeguard landowners’ due process rights by allowing them to challenge eminent domain requests in court earlier in the permitting process. The bill passed the Republican-majority Iowa House of Representatives in March by an 86-7 vote, demonstrating strong bipartisan support. However, it was killed in the state Senate before it could receive a floor vote, just like its predecessor last year.

Summit Carbon Solutions, the company behind the current pipeline plans, is owned by one of the state’s largest GOP donors, Bruce Rastetter, also one of Governor Kim Reynolds’ biggest benefactors. This fact is not lost on Iowans, many of whom view Rastetter’s influence as a barrier to the anti-pipeline bill’s success.

The CO2 pipelines in question form part of a carbon capture and storage (CCS) project, aiming to capture carbon emissions from ethanol plants across the states and pipe them out for deep underground storage. There are many reasons why CCS pipelines may not be the best solution for curbing carbon emissions. One concern is the immense pressure required to liquefy CO2 for pipeline transport, which is three times the pressure needed for liquefying natural gas, significantly increasing the danger of pipeline ruptures.

In 2020, a CO2 pipeline rupture in Satartia, Mississippi led to more than 200 evacuations and 45 hospitalizations. Three years later, some residents reported still dealing with residual health issues like severe asthma attacks, headaches, muscle tremors, and trouble concentrating.

CO2 pipelines can also damage the soil and reduce crop yields, a significant concern for farmers like the Junkers. Furthermore, the potential loss of their land is a particularly painful threat. Junker argues that if these eminent domain claims were for a public good, such as a road or bridge, it might be a different story. “They’re going to use our tax dollars to steal our land from us… They’re getting all these tax credits and subsidies to do this. We pay for that,” she says.

Despite the challenges, the Iowans fighting the pipelines and the use of eminent domain for their construction are extremely organized. They are making progress and growing their movement across different communities and viewpoints, giving hope that they will ultimately win.

Pipelines, dirty fuels, and money in politics are some of the related topics you might find interesting.

Original Story at www.sierraclub.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