Midwest Carbon Capture Pipeline Faces Legislative Hurdles, Eminent Domain Concerns

The United States is rapidly expanding carbon dioxide pipeline networks as part of carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) efforts, but recent studies and political developments reveal significant challenges and controversies. Research shows that these pipelines are disproportionately routed through marginalized and economically disadvantaged communities, raising environmental justice concerns and highlighting a need for policy reform. In the Midwest, a proposed $8.9 billion, 2,500-mile pipeline by Summit Carbon Solutions faces new obstacles after South Dakota banned the use of eminent domain for such projects, prompting Iowa lawmakers to demand similar action before approving the state budget. While the project aims to lower carbon emissions from ethanol plants and make them more competitive in the renewable fuels market, it faces opposition from farmers and court challenges, alongside questions of fairness in siting and land acquisition. These developments illustrate the complex intersection of climate mitigation, property rights, and social equity in the U.S. transition to net-zero emissions. The situation underscores growing calls for both legislative action and broader consideration of who bears the burden of new climate infrastructure.