Our blogs are written by the staff of the Center for Coalfield Justice, with an occasional guest post. The most recent post appears on top, and others show up below in order of publishing date. You can receive the blogs in your inbox by signing up for our mailing list. Once per month we publish a newsletter, which contains most of the blog posts.
Brave Station: The Early History of Oil and Gas in Southwestern Pennsylvania
The history of the natural gas industry in southwestern Pennsylvania runs as deep as the Marcellus Shale layer. When we look at the region, and understand how intimately woven the ties of industry and cultural identity are, and how they have shaped not only the region but the people within it, it is vital we…
As Washington County distributes grant money to combat substance use disorder, additional funds are making progress at the state level
In May of this year, Washington County opened up a new grant application for the use of the funds. By the time the application closed on June 11th, there were 18 grant applications. The Washington County Department of Human Services is currently reviewing the applications, and awardees are to be announced on July 18th at…
Advocate Effectively to Make Change
In a democracy, citizens’ most important duties are to express what they want and need and to elect into government those who demonstrate the willingness to stand up for those wants and needs. To truly create change, your expression of these ideas needs to be directed towards the right person and with the right message….
Arden Seeks Renewal of Air Pollution Permit – Make Your Voice Heard
Per the Air Pollution Control Act, operations that emit major sources of air pollution are required to obtain, and operate in compliance with an operating permit. In Pennsylvania, these permits are known as Title V Permits. Each permit lays out what kind of pollution is being emitted, how much, and what steps the operator is taking to reduce air pollution. When an operator applies for a new or renewed application, the DEP allows for a 30-day public comment period.
The History of Road Dumping and Why Pennsylvania Should Ban It
Ted Auch, FracTracker Alliance, 2015. There is a long history of regulating “road dumping” which, essentially, is the disposal of oil and gas wastewater onto public roads. Due to some legislative loopholes, the by-product from conventional and unconventional drilling was legally allowed to be released on public roads, despite the number and concentration of harmful…
Tonya and Jodi Reflect on the Health Effects Institute Conference in Philadelphia
The Health Effects Institute is a nonprofit corporation that provides impartial and relevant science on the health effects of air pollution. The Philly Conference covered several topics that were of interest to our communities in both Washington and Greene Counties. Tonya’s overall takeaway from the Health Effects Institute Conference in April 2024 is the feeling…
Updates on the Bailey Omnis Prep Plant
Early this morning, a large fire was reported above ground at the Bailey Prep Plant in West Finley, PA. So far, we know that first responders are on the scene, residents are being evacuated, and the building contains “an unknown amount of diesel fuel” and other chemicals for a “frother.” Right now, the biggest known…
Just Transition and the Green Manufacturing Boom
In the ever-evolving landscape of global energy, the transition towards renewable resources is murky and unclear. Yet, amidst this transformation, it’s imperative to ensure that no one is left behind. This concept is encapsulated in the notion of a “just transition,” which not only emphasizes environmental sustainability but also prioritizes social equity and economic justice….
Introducing a New CCJ Resource: Pennsylvania Agency Guide
As part of our mission to provide people with the information that they need to know, CCJ is proud to introduce our newest resource: the Pennsylvania Agency Guide! This guide is intended to provide more information about agencies that could be involved in portions of our work. Agencies are part of the executive branch of…
How Have Washington and Greene Counties Spent Opioid Settlement Funds so Far?
CCJ has been working closely with community members, service providers, and other local advocates to encourage the county to spend opioid settlement funds in a way that increases and expands the amount of harm reduction and recovery resources and services we have in our area. Annually on March 15th, counties must submit their reports for…