Front Porch Blog
Bond-forfeited Virginia Blackjewel mines may finally have a buyer
Three Virginia strip mines, neglected in the wake of the Blackjewel bankruptcy, may finally have a buyer. But it remains to be seen if the new company would be able to reclaim the land.
Read More“Environmentalist” Tom Clarke abandons mines in West Virginia
With the failure of coal operator ERP’s unconventional scheme, West Virginia must contend with the company’s environmental violations and mines in need of cleanup.
Read MoreCompanies play hot potato with unreclaimed Blackjewel mines
Virginia regulators, a surety insurance company, and two coal companies are playing hot potato with 22 of bankrupt Blackjewel’s coal permits — and none of them want to be left with the responsibility of reclaiming the sites.
Read MoreUtilities must suspend service disconnections and waive late fees
Millions of Americans have lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They should not have to worry about having their power or water turned off as a result.
Read MoreBlack lung service providers shift in the face of COVID-19
As coal miners with black lung disease have a heightened risk of complications from coronavirus, black lung healthcare providers work to respond to the global pandemic.
Read MoreFinally, Virginia lawmakers heed public’s call for clean energy
After years of advocacy by Appalachian Voices and many others, the Virginia legislature 2020 session produced bold measures that will move us toward a cleaner, more equitable energy economy — but there is work left to do.
Read MoreNC should order “no shut offs” for all utilities during pandemic
Appalachian Voices and other groups are calling on North Carolina leaders to order no shut-offs of electricity, water and other critical public services during Coronavirus emergency.
Read MoreJustice family mines pose massive threat to Virginia reclamation fund
Satellite photos taken years apart reveal that little reclamation has taken place at several Virginia mines owned by the family of billionaire West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice.
Read MoreA movement towards High Country energy democracy
More than 150 people gathered in February to discuss what their local energy utilities should be doing to address the climate crisis and create renewable energy jobs in the NC High Country. Transparency from our utilities and participation in decision-making is even more important as we face the current pandemic.
Read MoreA message from Appalachian Voices regarding COVID-19
As we adapt to this evolving situation, we will continue to work for ecological health, environmental justice and clean energy for all.
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