Maryland files lawsuit against Baltimore waste incinerator over air pollution | WBAL Baltimore News
Maryland files lawsuit against Baltimore waste incinerator over air pollution WBAL Radio
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Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Air Pollution Violations in Maryland
Introduction
A south Baltimore company, Curtis Bay Energy, is facing a lawsuit filed by the Maryland Attorney General and the state’s Environment Department for alleged air pollution violations connected to its medical waste incinerator. This report highlights the significance of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in addressing environmental issues and emphasizes the need for action.
Violation Allegations and Legal Action
The plaintiffs have alleged that inspections revealed several functional issues with the incinerator, which not only generates air pollution but also experienced a fire incident in January, resulting in unhealthy emissions. To address these violations, the Maryland Attorney General and the state’s Environment Department have filed a lawsuit in city circuit court against Curtis Bay Energy. The lawsuit seeks to compel the company to make necessary repairs and pay a penalty for its actions.
Previous Violations and Fines
This is not the first time Curtis Bay Energy has faced legal consequences for similar violations. Last summer, the company paid a historic $1 million fine to the state for mishandling medical waste. These repeated violations highlight the urgent need for stricter enforcement and compliance with environmental regulations.
Conclusion
The case against Curtis Bay Energy underscores the importance of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in promoting environmental sustainability. By addressing air pollution violations and holding companies accountable for their actions, we can work towards a cleaner and healthier future for all.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
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SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- Indicator: Air pollution levels and emissions of hazardous chemicals in the affected area.
-
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
- Indicator: Air quality index and waste management practices in the affected area.
-
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- Target 12.4: By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water, and soil to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment.
- Indicator: Compliance with waste management regulations and reduction in hazardous waste emissions.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination. | Air pollution levels and emissions of hazardous chemicals in the affected area. |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management. | Air quality index and waste management practices in the affected area. |
| SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production | Target 12.4: By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water, and soil to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment. | Compliance with waste management regulations and reduction in hazardous waste emissions. |
Analysis
The issues highlighted in the article are connected to multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The relevant SDGs include:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
Based on the content of the article, the specific targets under these SDGs can be identified as follows:
- Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
- Target 12.4: By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water, and soil to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment.
The article mentions or implies several indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:
- Air pollution levels and emissions of hazardous chemicals in the affected area.
- Air quality index and waste management practices in the affected area.
- Compliance with waste management regulations and reduction in hazardous waste emissions.
These indicators can provide measurable data to assess the extent to which the targets are being achieved.
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: wbal.com
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