In Rare Step, EPA Seeks To Suspend Local Permit Over EJ Concerns

EPA has taken the rare step of asking Chicago officials to suspend review of a permit application to expand a metal recycling plant on the city’s Southeast side and conduct a cumulative impact analysis to assess its effects on nearby residents -- one of the first affirmative steps the agency has taken to reflect administration environmental justice (EJ) priorities. “Prior to reaching a decision on the permit, U.S. EPA suggests that the City complete an environmental justice analysis, such as...