The Washington Department of Ecology listened to the people and the more than 215,000 comments they received last fall on coal export and has announced that they will be protecting the people of the northwest by taking into account all of the impacts of the coal export process, including rail transportation and the burning of the coal abroad. The study will take into account the effect of air pollutants including considering the impacts of greenhouse gases and global warming.
Thousands of people of faith submitted written comments opposing the Longview coal export terminal, citing health, environmental, and climate concerns. Nearly 100 religious leaders were among the thousands who testified against coal export at five hearings in Longview, Vancouver, Pasco, Spokane, and Tacoma. Clergy served as emcees at pre-hearing rallies in three of the cities.