Sangamon Sun

Navigator CO2, the company behind the Heartland Greenway carbon capture pipeline, has withdrawn its permit application to construct a carbon dioxide pipeline in Illinois. The decision comes after the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission rejected Navigator CO2's application for the pipeline. State Representative Wayne Rosenthal and many constituents in the 108th District have expressed concerns over eminent domain overreach and carbon sequestration in Illinois.

"Many landowners do not want any form of government allowing construction of CO2 pipelines through their farmland," said Rep. Rosenthal. "This company wants to transport carbon dioxide in a high-pressure liquid form from five states and store it underground in Illinois."

Navigator CO2, based in Omaha, Nebraska, aims to build a carbon ecosystem by transporting, liquefying, and storing carbon to reduce emissions. However, there are legitimate public concerns surrounding the project. The incident in Mississippi earlier this year, where a carbon dioxide pipeline rupture resulted in the evacuation of over 200 people and hospitalization of at least 45 people, highlights the potential risks associated with such projects.

The decision to withdraw the permit application is a setback for Navigator CO2's vision of carbon capture and storage. However, it reflects the growing importance of addressing public concerns and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of communities.

The rejection of the permit application in South Dakota and the subsequent withdrawal of the application in Illinois demonstrate the need for thorough evaluation and consideration of the potential impacts of carbon dioxide pipelines. It is crucial to strike a balance between the goals of reducing emissions and protecting the interests of landowners and communities.

As the push for climate change mitigation intensifies, it is essential to engage in open and transparent discussions about the risks and benefits associated with carbon capture and storage projects. This includes addressing concerns over eminent domain and ensuring the safe transport and storage of carbon dioxide.

The decision by Navigator CO2 to withdraw its permit application in Illinois serves as a reminder of the complex challenges involved in transitioning to a low-carbon future. While the company's vision for a carbon ecosystem is commendable, it is crucial to proceed with caution and prioritize the safety and concerns of the public.

In conclusion, the halting of the Navigator CO2 pipeline project in Illinois is a result of the rejection of the permit application by the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission and concerns raised by State Representative Wayne Rosenthal and constituents. The incident in Mississippi earlier this year further underscores the need for careful evaluation and consideration of the potential risks associated with carbon dioxide pipelines. Moving forward, it is essential to engage in open dialogue and prioritize the safety and wellbeing of communities while striving to reduce emissions and address climate change.

To find out more, go to this link: https://reprosenthal.com/2023/10/11/navigator-co2-pipeline-project-in-illinois-halted/