Supreme Court will hear challenge to EPA rule limiting downwind power plant pollution in 10 states
Supreme Court will hear challenge to EPA rule limiting downwind power plant pollution in 10 states The Associated Press
sdgtalks
The Supreme Court to Hear Arguments on EPA’s “Good Neighbor” Rule
The Supreme Court has scheduled arguments in February to determine whether the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can continue enforcing its anti-air-pollution “good neighbor” rule in 10 states. This rule aims to restrict smokestack emissions from power plants and other industrial sources that contribute to smog-causing pollution in downwind areas. The case has significant implications for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Background
On Wednesday, the high court decided to postpone a decision on whether to halt enforcement of the rule, allowing it to remain in effect until after the arguments in February. The rule is currently being challenged by three energy-producing states (Ohio, Indiana, and West Virginia), as well as industry groups and individual businesses. The EPA and the Justice Department declined to comment on the matter.
Impact of the Rule
The EPA reported that power-plant emissions have already decreased by 18% in the 10 states where the rule has been enforced. These states include Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin. The reduction in emissions aligns with SDG 13, which aims to combat climate change and its impacts.
However, the rule is currently on hold in another dozen states due to separate legal challenges. These states are Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, and West Virginia. In California, limits on emissions from industrial sources other than power plants are set to take effect in 2026.
Protecting Downwind States
The “good neighbor” rule requires states that contribute to ground-level ozone (smog) to submit plans ensuring that coal-fired power plants and other industrial sites do not significantly add to air pollution in neighboring states. If a state fails to submit a plan or if the EPA disapproves a state plan, the federal plan is supposed to ensure protection for downwind states. This measure supports SDG 3 by promoting clean air and reducing respiratory problems caused by pollution.
Ground-level ozone is formed when industrial pollutants react chemically in the presence of sunlight. It can lead to respiratory problems such as asthma and chronic bronchitis, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as people with compromised immune systems, the elderly, and children playing outdoors.
Reactions and Criticisms
Environmental and public health advocates have praised the “good neighbor” rule as a life-saving measure for individuals living far away from industrial polluters. They believe it contributes to achieving SDG 3 and SDG 13. On the other hand, industry groups have criticized the rule, claiming it has an anti-coal bias and will increase electricity costs.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s upcoming decision on the EPA’s “good neighbor” rule will have significant implications for air pollution control and the achievement of the SDGs. It will determine whether the EPA can continue enforcing the rule in 10 states and potentially expand its application to other states. The decision will shape efforts to combat climate change, protect public health, and promote sustainable development.
___
Associated Press writers Lindsay Whitehurst and Matthew Daly contributed to this report.
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. | No specific indicators mentioned in the article. |
| SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy | Target 7.1: By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services. | No specific indicators mentioned in the article. |
| 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. | No specific indicators mentioned in the article. |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning. | No specific indicators mentioned in the article. |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services. | No specific indicators mentioned in the article. |
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 15: Life on Land
The issues highlighted in the article are related to air pollution caused by power plants and industrial sources, which can have adverse effects on human health and the environment. These issues are connected to the SDGs mentioned above.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- 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 7.1: By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services.
- 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 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
- Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services.
Based on the article’s content, these specific targets are relevant to addressing the issues of air pollution and its impact on health, energy access, environmental impact of cities, climate change, and conservation.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
No specific indicators are mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets.
The article primarily focuses on the legal challenges and arguments surrounding the EPA’s anti-air-pollution rule, without providing specific data or indicators to measure progress towards the targets.
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: apnews.com
Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.
