Carbon Capture Controversy Intensifies in Louisiana’s Rural Parishes
Allen Parish, LA — The debate over carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) persists in Louisiana as Allen Parish enacts new regulations on carbon storage wells. Officials express concern that lack of local ordinances has left rural communities vulnerable to industrial exploitation. Roland Hollins, a member of the parish police jury, emphasized the need for regulation to protect local landowners.
The ordinance covers all wells under the Safe Drinking Water Act, aiming to balance local interests amid rising industry development. Concurrently, the Legislature discussed CCS, with advocates securing victories, including better compensation for landowners and restrictions on eminent domain. Opponents, including concerned rural residents, argue that the industry’s advancements threaten local autonomy, and they’ve formed coalitions like the Louisiana CO2 Alliance to amplify their voice.
While Exxon’s Denbury Inc. is eyeing Allen Parish for a carbon capture facility, local leaders remain wary, citing safety concerns stemming from past incidents. Proponents, including the River Region Chamber of Commerce, tout CCS as essential for economic growth and job creation, projecting over $150 billion in new projects reliant on this technology. As tensions mount, rural leaders continue to contest the future of carbon capture in their communities.
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