Like it or not, Iowa Republicans have hoodwinked us into a carbon capture and sequestration method of addressing the climate crisis. It is common sense that hooking a polluting ethanol plant, coal-fired electricity generating station, or a propane grain drying operation to a mechanism for carbon capture does nothing to address the root cause of pollution. Nonetheless, here we go.
On June 22, 2021, Governor Kim Reynolds “signed Executive Order 9 launching a task force to explore carbon sequestration and the opportunities it presents for further economic development in the state of Iowa,” according to a press release.
Because of our existing supply chain and emphasis on renewable fuel infrastructure, Iowa is in a strong position to capitalize on the growing nationwide demand for a more carbon free economy. Iowa is a recognized leader in renewable fuel and food production, and this is another opportunity to lead and be innovative, invest in Iowa agriculture, and facilitate new sources of revenue for our agriculture and energy sectors. I am proud to bring together an impressive team of stakeholders that will help formulate smart, commonsense policy recommendations on this issue ahead of the 2022 legislative session.
Governor Kim Reynolds on June 22, 2021
When we talk about the decarbonization imperative across the global economy, carbon capture and sequestration has only limited use. As is typical of statements from the Iowa governor, there was no mention of the climate crisis in the release.
Having been forced to deal with carbon capture and sequestration as a public issue, advocates need references to understand what it is, its consequences, and risks. Below are some links to get started. Expect this post to be updated as new information is found and becomes available.
Carbon Capture and Storage, Center for International Environmental Law.
What is Carbon Capture and Storage?
Potential for Geologic Sequestration of CO2 in Iowa
The Gassing of Sataria by Dan Zegart, Aug. 26, 2021, HuffPost.
Chevron Concedes Failure at Gorgon.
Public Informational Meetings on the Proposed Summit Carbon Pipeline, Iowa Utilities Board.
Public Informational Meetings for Proposed Navigator Pipeline, Iowa Utilities Board.
The Future of Fossil Fuels Hinges on Two Huge Midwestern Pipeline Fights
Fossil Fuel Industry and Investment in CCS and CCUS.
The Fossil Fuel Industry’s New Rube Goldberg Scheme, Science and Environmental Health Network.
Carbon Capture & Storage: The Facts, Science and Environmental Health Network.
Facts About Carbon Capture and Storage, Sept. 14, 2021, Science and Environmental Health Network.
U.S. House Conservative Climate Caucus
Rational Solutions at COP26, Not Dramatic Alarmism, podcast by Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-TX02)
Landowners: Know Your Rights About Eminent Domain
Iowa Laws and Rules for pipeline construction:
Chapter 9 - Restoration of Agricultural Lands During and After Pipeline Construction Chapter 479b - Hazardous Liquid Pipelines and Storage Facilities IUB FAQs on Eminent Domain https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_fiqcylIzo IUB Hazardous Pipeline Permitting Process https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1K_w5VzBZ6s
How to submit an objection with the Iowa Utilities Board:
Written comments or objections to the proposed pipeline can be filed electronically using the IUB’s Open Docket Comment Form, by email to customer@iub.iowa.gov, or by postal mail to the Iowa Utilities Board, Attn: Docket No. HLP-2021-0003 (Navigator) and/or Docket No. HLP-2021-0001 (Summit) , 1375 E. Court Ave., Des Moines, IA 50319.
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