The majority of petrochemical production in the United States has always taken place on the Gulf Coast. But, with low-priced shale gas from fracking in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia, the industry sees the Ohio River Valley as a manufacturing goldmine. Twenty-nine new gas-fired power plants are projected or under construction in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia.

Kathy Ferguson is a community organizer in the Ohio River Valley. She sits down with Rev Yearwood to discuss how we can fight against the petrochemical industry in the Midwest.

Land in the Black community continues to be haggled away by politicians and business people who don’t live in these communities but look to profit through petrochemicals production. Petrochemicals contribute to air contamination, water pollution, and land deterioration, while greenhouse gases released also contribute to global climate change. Several studies have shown an increased amount of people with cancer living near these facilities. 

The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Instagram.