6. How The Chapel Hill Community is Fighting Environmental Destruction in the State of NC

Lib Hutchby is a member of Women's International League for Peace and Freedom in the Triangle Branch, Raging Grannies, Frack Free UNC, and NC Environmental Network.

In Chapel Hill, NC, local residents are rallying against a coal-fired power plant owned by UNC Chapel Hill, as well as a nearby Duke Energy gas build outs. Several community groups are also actively working to promote environmental sustainability by hosting events like World Water Day and attending public hearings.

Recently, UNC submitted a proposal to burn packaging materials and plastics, turning them into pellets to be used as fuel in their coal plant. While this 12-month trial period might reduce some emissions compared to the plant’s current fuel, burning these pellets could also increase levels of nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide. On top of that, the pellets contain small amounts of PFAS, or "forever chemicals," which are notoriously harmful.

However, thanks in part to the efforts of Chapel Hill's local groups, UNC has withdrawn its application. This victory is a testament to the power of community action in protecting the environment.

Contact and connect with Lib: libhutchby5@gmail.com   

Pellet testing: https://chapelboro.com/news/unc/no-more-coal-chapel-hill-prepares-for-hearing-on-uncs-co-gen-plant-and-potential-new-fuel-source