On Feb. 7, the Environmental Protection Agency released its updated soot pollution standard, which will clean up our air by reducing soot emissions. Soot is dangerous and deadly, produced by power plants, automobiles, and other industrial sources. It is particularly threatening to the health of children, seniors, and people with chronic illnesses. As people of faith and conscience, we find ourselves called into the love of neighbor and faithful stewardship of the earth on which we all depend. 

This EPA action marks an important step in protecting both the environment and people. According to the EPA, this change could prevent 4,500 premature deaths and 290,000 lost workdays each year once fully implemented. And yet, the EPA could have released an even stronger standard, saving more lives.

This leaves us concerned for the lives and well-being of our neighbors. Philadelphia is the poorest big city in the country. People living in poverty are more susceptible to the harmful effects of soot pollution. The wisdom of scripture reminds us that it is precisely these people and communities for whom God holds the deepest concern.

The EPA has a moral obligation to protect the health of our communities and our neighbors. Again, we are grateful for the progress their new standard on reducing soot represents – our air and neighborhoods will be cleaner. We also know that our communities deserve even stronger protection.

Rev. Dr. Kipp Gilmore-Clough, Senior Pastor

Joy Bergey, Environmental Justice Liaison

Chestnut Hill United Church