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A Carbon Capture Monitoring Well Leaked in Illinois. Most Residents Found Out When the World Did

Summary

A carbon capture monitoring well at Archer-Daniels-Midland’s (ADM) facility in Decatur, Illinois, leaked CO2, but most residents only learned of it through media reports. The EPA issued ADM a violation notice for breaching safety regulations, as corrosion in the well caused a fluid leak. This incident raises concerns about the reliability of carbon capture technology, especially given plans to expand CO2 storage in urban areas like Decatur. Critics, including local officials and environmental advocates, are questioning the safety and transparency of such projects, particularly regarding public notification and environmental risks to drinking water.

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