ADM Violates U.S. Water Laws After Carbon Capture Project Leak

Archer-Daniels-Midland (ADM) has been found in violation of U.S. federal water safety regulations and its underground injection permit following a leak at its Illinois carbon capture project, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ADM's Illinois Industrial Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS) Project, which aims to store carbon dioxide underground, experienced an issue where injected CO2 migrated into unauthorized zones, potentially jeopardizing soil and groundwater safety.

The EPA's inspection in July revealed that ADM did not comply with its emergency response plan or properly monitor the well, raising concerns about environmental safety. The company responded by addressing corrosion in one of its deep monitoring wells, plugging it, and notifying the EPA. ADM reassured that there was no impact on groundwater or public health.

The Biden administration's Inflation Reduction Act, which expanded tax credits for CCS projects, has driven interest in carbon sequestration, though incidents like this raise concerns from local communities and environmental groups. While ADM maintains confidence in the technology, groups like Food & Water Watch highlight the potential risks to surrounding areas.