IRMA is a multi-sector initiative that offers independent, third-party auditing and transparency at mine sites using its 400+ page standard.
Until the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency adopted a new rule in 2016, the oil and gas industry was allowed to dispose of wastewater at municipal wastewater treatment plants. But because municipal plants aren’t capable of handling toxic and radioactive substances, wastewater can contaminate rivers and streams when it is discharged after treatment.
After the EPA required the mining industry to begin reporting its toxic releases, mining companies and the National Mining Association began fighting to eliminate or limit the public’s right to know about the mining industry’s toxic releases.
The EPA’s Toxics Release Inventory gives citizens information about toxic releases in and around their communities. With this information citizens can encourage mining companies to reduce their toxic releases and/or agree to more vigorous oversight of their mines.
Large volumes of oil and gas wastewater are ultimately disposed of in underground injection wells (UICs) through a federal program …
Surface damages legislation restores the balance between landowners and the oil and gas industry – and doesn’t curtail production or jobs.
Many states allow “brine” (produced water) from conventional drilling operations to be spread on roads as a de-icer and dust suppressant. Brine can contain high levels of salt, chloride, and chemicals, which can pose risks to wildlife, vegetation, and drinking water.