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Opinion
The following is presented as part of The Columbian’s Opinion content, which offers a point of view in order to provoke thought and debate of civic issues. Opinions represent the viewpoint of the author. Unsigned editorials represent the consensus opinion of The Columbian’s editorial board, which operates independently of the news department.
News / Opinion / Letters to the Editor

Letter: Coal is energy of the past

By Cathryn Chudy, VANCOUVER
Published: May 6, 2017, 6:00am

Thank you for keeping the coal export issue front and center (“In Our View — Make Coal Great Again?” April 24, The Columbian; and “Review of Proposed Longview Coal Terminal: Project poses safety, health risks,” April 29, Associated Press).

As pointed out, coal represents the past. The jobs issue is a red herring, designed to sadly ensnare the public into believing that the only solution for jobs is to make that deal with the devil (allow one corporation’s profit motive to override the well-being of our river, our health, our safety, and the future of our children).

The just-released final environmental impact study for the Longview coal export proposal should not be seen as a “go-ahead” for a company that has deliberately minimized risks and concerns raised repeatedly by thousands at public hearings and in submitted comments. The study validates many of those concerns, concluding unavoidable and adverse impacts to our communities and the environment we all share. “Mitigation” will not protect us.

Stay in touch with Columbia Riverkeeper (columbiariverkeeper.org) and the Power Past Coal coalition (www.powerpastcoal.org) as final permits are considered.

We must hold our “thin green line” by supporting ecology and Cowlitz County to deny permits and say a final “no” to this project.

We encourage readers to express their views about public issues. Letters to the editor are subject to editing for brevity and clarity. Limit letters to 200 words (100 words if endorsing or opposing a political candidate or ballot measure) and allow 30 days between submissions. Send Us a Letter

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