'A real toxic sludge' — Report uncovers top polluting power plant in California

Power plant
Photo credit Getty Images

Environmental groups are calling for an immediate shutdown of the Walnut Creek Energy Park in Industry after a report found that it is poisoning the community.

According to the Sierra Club's 'The Notorious Nine' list of top polluters, Walnut Creek is most likely to be in violation of federal air standards.

"Our report looks specifically at nitrogen oxides or nox pollution, which is an extremely toxic chemical that can cause asthma air pollution, especially for children whose lungs are still developing," spokesperson with The Sierra Club, Sander Kushen, told KNX News' Karen Adams.

He said it's not just about the nitrogen oxide. "Our report found that these gas plants in Walnut Creek are also releasing tons and tons of toxic chemicals, including sulfur dioxide, ammonia, and carbon monoxide, which are just a real toxic sludge."

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The report calls for shutting down the plant, requiring emissions reporting for all gas facilities, regardless of size, and speeding up the state's transition to cleaner energy.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Getty Images