Maine Climate News, September 25
Study Reveals High Levels of Toxins in South Portland
The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the Department of Environmental Protection have shared the results of their six-year air monitoring study in South Portland. There are over 100 oil tanks in the city.
Two toxins, acrolein and benzene, were measured throughout the study, but both levels were not abnormal when compared to other parts of the state.
Higher levels were detected in areas closer to the oil tanks. In 2019, residents who lived near these tanks reported headaches and strong odors. Officials say it’s something they will continue to look into.
Juniper Ridge Landfill Toxic Waste Could Start Being Brought to Hampden
In a new proposal, Juniper Ridge wants to treat its PFAs waste off-site, 20 miles south in Hampden. Wastewater is currently treated near the facility in Old Town.
The proposal has received extensive push back from environmental organizations and local communities. Trucking toxic waste in large amounts risks spreading PFAS contamination to new parts of the state, creating a host of environmental and health concerns.
Maine’s Department of Environmental Protection has paused public comments related to the Juniper Ridge expansion until more details are announced.
Source: The Maine Monitor
Maine Joins States Suing Trump Administration Over Offshore Wind
The Trump Administration has been canceling offshore wind leases—now eight states including Maine have sued them.
The lawsuit focuses on two offshore wind leases in New York and New Jersey. The Administration promised $1.4 billion to the two companies in charge of development if they stopped the projects. In total, the Administration has agreed to pay over $4 billion to stop similar leases.
According to the agreement, the funds for these projects must be redirected to fossil fuel development projects in other parts of the country.
Source: Maine Morning Star
