Environmental Group Wants Coal Plants Shut Down Over Soot Pollution

MADISON, Wis. (WTAQ) - An environmental group says some of Wisconsin’s coal-fired power plants should be shut down in the wake of this week’s soot pollution. Clean Wisconsin says the state is making more electricity than it can use. And the group’s Katie Nekola calls plant shutdowns “a logical conclusion.” Particles from power plants and other sources are hanging in the air this week because of a lack of winds.

The state DNR has had air quality watches and advisories for most of the state since last Sunday – and forecasters say there’s no relief in sight until at least Saturday. The DNR says the high soot makes the air unhealthy for seniors, kids, and those with lung and heart conditions. And the EPA said there was so much soot lingering in Milwaukee on Tuesday that even healthy adults were at risk.

But the DNR calls this week’s conditions an exception. In general, officials say Wisconsin’s air quality has improved in the last few years – both present and future pollution limits will make the air even cleaner.