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illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The New York Times or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: The Biden administration introduced four stringent EPA rules targeting coal-fired power plants, aiming to significantly reduce emissions including carbon dioxide and mercury, restrict toxic ash leakage, and manage wastewater more effectively
• The ultimate goal is to close most remaining coal plants by 2040
🔭 The context: These new regulations represent the administration's boldest steps yet against coal, historically a major power source but now diminishing
• Previous rules have already forced plants to adopt technologies like scrubbers, but these new rules push even further
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The shutdown of coal plants could lead to a major decrease in carbon emissions, helping combat climate change
• Transitioning away from coal is seen as essential for meeting global emissions targets
⏭️ What's next: The new rules are set to phase in starting with a 90% emissions reduction required by 2032 for plants operating past 2039
• Given the aging infrastructure of U.S. coal plants, many may close before meeting these new standards
📈 One stat: Last year, coal generated just 16.2% of U.S. electricity, down from 50% in 1990
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