West Elk coal mine faces potential Colorado sanctions over emissions

Colorado regulators have warned the West Elk coal mine that it may face sanctions following a significant spike in air pollution. According to a state compliance advisory, the mine’s emissions of volatile organic compounds reached 1,723 tons during the 12-month period ending in May, nearly four times the 465-ton limit established in its air permit.

Environmental advocates, led by the Center for Biological Diversity, are calling for stricter penalties than mere fines. They have urged the state to mandate the installation of the best available technology to control emissions, noting that the facility is the largest industrial source of methane in Colorado.

The Colorado Air Pollution Control Division is currently investigating the matter and has requested that the mine evaluate the risks its elevated emissions pose to public health and air quality. While the division has the authority to issue compliance orders and penalties, a timeline for the conclusion of the investigation has not been established.