The coal industry is promising that new export facilities will mean jobs, tax revenue, and economic growth for the Northwest. Yet the region’s history tells a cautionary tale. Twice before, West Coast ports have tried to build “world class” coal export facilities—and the result was pollution, broken promises, and bad debt.
In a new research memo, “Coal Export: A History of Failure for Western Ports,” Sightline and Columbia Riverkeeper examine the history and risks of coal exports. The memo evaluates the alleged employment benefits of coal terminals, and it highlights local examples of clean redevelopment projects doing better.
Read the whole thing here.
