WASHINGTON - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a proposed denial of Alabama’s permit program to manage coal combustion residuals - commonly known as CCR or coal ash - in landfills and surface impoundments.
In its first proposed denial of a state coal ash permit program, EPA finds that the Alabama permit program is significantly less protective of people and waterways than the federal regulations require.
Under the federal regulations, surface impoundments cannot be closed if, once closure is complete, the coal ash continues to be saturated by groundwater.
Should EPA’s proposed denial of Alabama’s coal ash permit program be finalized, the consequence would be that facilities will still be required to comply with the federal CCR regulations.
If EPA determines that there are any immediate threats to human health or the environment posed by CCR facilities (whether unpermitted or currently permitted by the state), EPA will consider using all available authorities, including enforcement and response authorities provided under federal law.
EPA is soliciting comments on this proposal for 60 days, during which an in-person public hearing will be held for interested persons to present information and comments about this proposed program. (EPA 08/03/23) U.S. State of Alabama Coal Combustion Residuals Permit Program Proposed Denial | US EPA
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