Written by Elizabeth E. Payne
Elizabeth E. Payne
A native of Boone, N.C., Lee earned degrees in archaeology and ancient history at Brown University and Boston University, and received a Ph.D. in Near Eastern languages and civilizations from Yale University. She served as our AmeriCorps Communications associate from 2015-16, and as our Communications Associate from 2016-2017.
Clean Power Plan Court Case Delayed Until September
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit has postponed hearing challenges to the federal Clean Power Plan until September. This plan by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is designed to reduce carbon emissions from power plants.
Environmental Votetracker — June/July 2016
See how Appalachian congressional representatives voted on several environmental issues during April and May 2016.
Climbing the Highlands
Appalachia offers climbers challenging routes in beautiful settings, and the region’s geology invites adventurers of all styles and abilities. And in return, the sport of climbing provides an opportunity for economic development for areas around these rock formations.
Major Coal Companies File for Bankruptcy
Both Arch Coal and Alpha Natural Resources are undergoing bankruptcy. Alpha was allowed to issue nearly $12 million in executive bonuses, even while it tries to avoid paying some retirees’ life insurance and health benefits.
Mercury Rules Survive Supreme Court Setback
Despite a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency had not properly considered the cost to industry of its mercury emission regulations, a panel of federal judges have allowed the agency to move ahead.
Scientists Review to EPA Fracking Report
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Science Advisory Board raised questions about the scientific basis of a report by the agency on fracking.
Bill Aims to Boost Local Appalachian Economies
The RECLAIM Act, introduced in early February by Rep. Hal Rogers (R-KY), would accelerate the release of $1 billion from the Abandoned Mine Lands Fund over the next five years and could help revitalize the economics in many areas impacted by coal’s decline.
New Mine Safety Standards Survive Industry Challenge
Despite challenges from industry groups, a federal court has upheld new mine safety standards that will go into effect on Feb. 1.
Solar Jobs Overtake Oil and Gas, Coal Mining in China, Methane Leak in California
News briefs from across the energy sector
