Working with clients and nature to develop measurable decommissioning plans for CCR facilities

Nature-based Solutions for Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) Facilities

Coal ash, or coal combustion residuals (CCRs) are created when power plants burn coal to generate electricity. There are around 500 CCR facilities in the United States. Many are unlined, potentially exposing coal ash to groundwater. With the slow phase-out of coal burning plants, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is looking to close many of these facilities over the next 15 years.

Working with our CCR client, we developed a concept with quantifiable ecosystems services that could replenish and restore the site habitats using a variety of nature-based solutions—a 250-acre mosaic of pollinator grasslands, low-lying wetlands, and multitiered forests. Potential to enhance recreational resources included four miles of trails, educational signage, and river frontage access. The value of these resources included $3.8 million in natural capital improvements and 1,000 to 1,600 tonnes of potential CO2 removal.

With a plan in hand, our client was able to consider various nature-based options as part of their CCR decommissioning plans. This information will help with future stakeholder open houses, public relations initiatives, alignment with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals, and creating additional land value.