The Associated Press. “Bankruptcy Judge Approves Cleanup Deal in W.Va. Spill Case.” The New York Times. The New York Times, 08 July 2015. Web. 23 Aug. 2015. <http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2015/07/08/us/ap-us-chemical-spill-bankruptcy.html>.
After a year, a judged has approved a 2.5 million dollar deal to cleanup an chemical spill in West Virginia. Back in January 2014, a chemical spill caused the ban of tap water for 300,000 people in Charleston, West Virginia. Now, there has finally been a settlement on how much money will be given to help with the cleanup process. Freedom industries will give 1.4 million dollars while its parent, Chemstream Holdings will give 1.1 million dollars. This is a win for the DEP who was originally only offered 150,000 dollars.
Once again, I think it is good that the federal court is recognizing the importance of protecting our environments. It is crucial to get these type of spills cleaned up so they don’t cause permanent damage to us, our community, or the ecosystems. I find it somewhat ridiculous though that the economic side to the environmental cleanup took over a year to figure out.
I agree that having government support is crucial to making a difference and protecting our environment. Yes, a big difference can still be made without their support, but because they have so much power, their involvement can make an even bigger impact.
I am in complete agreement and thats why the government needs to actively participate in environmental clean up.
Unfortunately, it seems to always come down to the conflict between the economic and environmental viewpoints.
That is very unfortunate and that is why we need to find more sustainable ways of cleaning up the environment.
It also helps for people to actually recognize the problems in the environment.
Yes, I think that is a vital part of solving the problem.