Air pollution is becoming a major environmental disaster in the state of Virginia. Air pollution problem has been compounded by the fact that west Virginia is the largest producer of natural gas east of the Mississippi river, as well as a major storage and transfer are of the interstate natural gas transmission systems. West Virginia is also a major producer of coalbed methane. There are also many industries in Virginia such as aluminum, steel, glass which in one way or another depends on coal as the main source of energy. These plants release gases like carbon dioxide, methane sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxide. The effects of these gases include global warming, greenhouse effects and acid rain.
Several agencies and conferences are working hard to come up with measures that would not only aim at reduction of environmental pollution, but also ensure that the economy is not compromised. Cost-effective technologies to minimize emission of green house gases, nitrogen dioxide, particulates and other pollutants associated with the use of fossil fuel is now being applied as one of the crucial measure to reduce air pollution. These technologies basically entail capturing, utilizing and sequestering carbon dioxide so as to reduce its emission to the air.
Industrial energy efficiency especially from aluminum, steel, glass, chemical and wood products industries is also another important measure of combating environmental pollution. To achieve this, projects that would increase the productivity and reduce costs through improved energy efficiency, reduce waste, use of new technologies and better inventory and management systems are being laid down. These projects involve laying down the strategies like better energy demand systems, new system for improved on-line process monitoring and improved sensors and controls. It also entails development of better waste minimization and recycle strategies e.g. industrial waste water treatment technologies; product designs for recycling materials and wastes; better strategies for cross industry use of waste and by products. It also streamlines environmental permitting processes and evaluation of proposed mining sites in terms of potential acid rain.
At least 25% of the West Virginias’ fleet and commuter vehicles is now being powered by alternate fuel such as natural gas. Natural gas refueling stations and recharging facilities is now almost conveniently located across the state. High speed transportation system is in process. Alongside these industrial measures, afforestation and reafforestation programmes are underway.
References:
Lawrence, M, (2005). Encyclopedia of white-collar &corporate crime. Virginia: Sage publishers. 1, 21-32
United state of America, (1998). Congressional record, proceedings and debates of the 105th congress second session United States government printing office. Washington 144, 376-378
Otis K. Rice & Stephen W. Brown (1993). West Virginia; a History. Kentucky: University press of Kentucky pp. pp. 200-206
