A coalition of environmental groups today said the recent explosion at the Phillips 66 pipeline in Paradis uncuts the oil and gas industry arguments for the proposed 160-mile Bayou Bridge Pipeline, urging state and federal officials to deny permits for the project.
In a statement, Renate Heurich, a climate leader with 350 Louisiana, says Louisiana should move toward renewable energy sources and away from fossil fuels.
“They are not safe when we transport them be it in pipelines or trains,” Heurich says. “They are not safe when we burn them because they destabilize our climate. Fossil fuels represent the past; renewable sources are our future.”
Heurich was joined by representatives of the Louisiana Bucket Brigade, the GreenARMY and BOLD Louisiana in denouncing the project, which would cut through Lake Charles to St. James parishes if approved.
Opponents of the pipeline have expressed concerns about possible leaks and accidents, among other things. Proponents say the pipeline is safe and would benefit Louisiana economically.
The Associated Press reports that the Phillips 66 pipeline fire broke out Thursday night, injuring two people and killing one and leading to the evacuation of 60 nearby homes. The fire has since been extinguished.
The cause of the blaze hasn’t been determined. The pipeline carried liquid components of natural gas.
