"Mississippi Community Fights Pollution from U.K. Energy Giant"
Residents of Gloster, Mississippi, a majority-Black, low-income community, have been battling with U.K.-based energy company Drax Group over concerns about pollution from its wood pellet production plant. The community has demanded action from Drax, including installing air quality monitors and complying with noise ordinances. However, scheduled meetings with the company have been canceled. Wood pellets, used as an alternative to fossil fuels, have faced scrutiny for their carbon emissions. Drax's Gloster facility has been accused of violating air pollution regulations, and the company has faced fines in Mississippi and Louisiana. Environmental justice advocates argue that the plant perpetuates "environmental racism." The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality has issued a notice of violation to Drax, alleging that the plant exceeded air pollution limits. Local residents have reported noticeable impacts on air quality and health.