Federal regulators were on the brink of implementing new safety regulations for CO2 pipelines to prevent future disasters following a toxic gas leak in Mississippi. However, these efforts were thwarted during the early days of President Trump’s second term, leaving pipeline safety advocates concerned about the risks posed by the fast-growing network of CO2 pipelines across the United States.
Trump Administration Halts Proposed Safety Rules
In a surprising turn of events, the proposed safety rules aimed at enhancing the safety of CO2 pipelines were withdrawn just days before the end of Joe Biden’s presidency. This decision came as a result of an executive order signed by President Trump, freezing all pending regulations and initiating a review process by his newly appointed agency leaders. The move cast doubt on the future of these critical safety measures, especially given Trump’s emphasis on eliminating costly regulations that impede economic development.
Trump’s nominee to lead the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, Paul Roberti, has deep ties to the pipeline and energy industry, raising concerns among safety advocates. Notably, his oversight during Trump’s first term saw fewer safety citations and fines compared to previous administrations. Despite the setback, pipeline safety advocates remain hopeful that the Trump administration will reconsider approving these regulations to mitigate the risks associated with CO2 pipelines.
The Growing Network of CO2 Pipelines and Safety Concerns
With over 5,000 miles of CO2 pipelines in the U.S., primarily used for enhanced oil recovery and carbon capture technologies, the potential for accidents is a growing concern. Experts predict that the CO2 pipeline network could expand to 66,000 miles by 2050, necessitating robust safety measures to protect communities along these pipelines. While the Trump administration may not prioritize carbon capture initiatives, the industry’s growth is expected to continue to meet climate benchmarks set by various states.
Transporting pressurized CO2 poses significant risks, especially in rural areas where the network is concentrated. Due to its colorless, odorless, and heavier-than-air properties, CO2 leaks can go undetected and pose serious health hazards to nearby residents. The proposed safety rules seek to establish stringent design, installation, and maintenance standards for CO2 pipelines, including mandatory training for emergency responders and improved communication strategies in the event of a leak.
“These rules represent a significant step forward in enhancing the safety of CO2 pipelines, although they are not foolproof,” noted Bill Caram, executive director of the Pipeline Safety Trust. The absence of specific standards for transporting CO2 and the lack of updates to regulations since 1991 underscore the urgency of implementing these safety measures to prevent future disasters like the one in Satartia, Mississippi.
Lessons Learned from Past Incidents
The catastrophic pipeline rupture in Satartia, Mississippi, which forced hundreds of residents to evacuate and left many requiring medical treatment, served as a wake-up call for the need for stronger safety standards. Despite the availability of data indicating previous CO2 pipeline incidents and the risks involved, the lack of comprehensive safety regulations has left communities vulnerable to potential accidents.
The recent rupture in southwest Louisiana, involving a Denbury Inc.-owned pipeline, further highlighted the risks associated with inadequate safety measures. While the incident did not result in serious illnesses, the lack of alarms or alerts for nearby residents underscored the need for enhanced safety protocols to safeguard communities along CO2 pipelines.
“In the absence of a rule, blatant regulatory shortfalls will remain, leaving the public fully exposed to the risks of CO2 pipelines,” warned Kenneth Clarkson, the Pipeline Safety Trust’s communications director. The urgent need for robust safety regulations cannot be understated, as the consequences of inaction could lead to similar, if not more severe, accidents in the future.
