(Mid-Ohio Valley Climate Corner – Photo Illustration – MetroCreativeConnection)
Many people think that to create a cleaner environment, we must sacrifice economic development. This is simply not true.
Recent events highlight the pressing need to address climate change. In fact, 2024 has shattered heat records globally, marking the hottest year ever recorded. In California, severe wildfires linked to prolonged droughts and intense winds have caused widespread devastation. Retired firefighter Jordan Thomas stated, “To prevent catastrophic fires like these, we must stop burning fossil fuels.”
In Ohio, legislation has made it easier to extract fossil fuels through fracking on public lands, including state parks. This has led to increased waste, much of which is radioactive and toxic. Washington County is now a major site for this brine waste. As noted by my colleague, Dr. Randi Pokladnik, this waste contains harmful substances like PFAS, which have serious health risks.
The Mid-Ohio Valley relies heavily on fossil fuels, especially natural gas, but this is not translating into regional prosperity. A study from the Ohio River Valley Institute showed that from 2008 to 2019, the economy in this area lagged behind national growth in jobs and income. Sadly, many young people are leaving, seeking better opportunities elsewhere. Extractive industries often create limited jobs, and what we really need are more labor-intensive roles that generate local wealth.
Fortunately, there are many avenues for economic growth in Appalachia that don’t involve fossil fuels. For example, producing biomaterials like hemp, algae, and mycelium can replace plastics. We could also focus on manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles, which help reduce greenhouse gases. Capping abandoned oil and gas wells could create around 32,000 jobs in our region. In Ohio, more people are now employed in solar and wind energy than in coal. Research into using coal byproducts to make rare-earth metals for electric vehicles is showing promise too. Even parts for wind turbines could be produced locally.
The initiative ReImagine Appalachia is working to shift the region’s economy from fossil fuels to sustainable practices. They advocate for circular manufacturing, which aims to prevent waste and regenerate natural resources through the strategies of reducing, reusing, and repurposing.
As new investments are made in our communities, it’s crucial they benefit local residents. This includes employing local workers at fair wages, upholding environmental standards, and ensuring access to green spaces and affordable housing. Such commitments can be formalized through community benefit agreements, which are now required for projects funded by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Additionally, job-training programs are emerging in Appalachia, targeting individuals affected by the criminal justice system and those recovering from substance use disorders. These initiatives aim to tackle pressing social issues in our communities.
George Banziger, Ph.D., has served in various academic roles and is active in several environmental groups in the Mid-Ohio Valley.
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Local columns,Mid-Ohio Valley Climate Corner: Having it both ways – a cleaner environment and economic growthOpinion,Mid-Ohio Valley Climate Corner: Having it both ways – a cleaner environment and economic growth
