New research suggests coal plants took advantage of the 2018–19 government shutdown to quietly pollute more—and experts warn the same could be occurring now as the EPA begins furloughing staff. (E&E News)
During the last shutdown, particulate pollution from nearly 200 coal plants rose 15–19%, according to the JAERE study. Co-author Neha Khanna said power companies appeared to “strategically” switch off costly equipment that captures soot — knowing EPA inspectors weren’t watching.
With the current shutdown entering week 2 and the EPA preparing to furlough 13K+ employees, enforcement and ambient air monitoring have again been suspended. “It’s like speeding on a highway when you know there’s no cop around,” Khanna said