South Baltimore Activists Celebrate Agreement to End Incineration at Curtis Bay Energy
Maryland has reached a significant settlement with Curtis Bay Energy, which will lead to the cessation of all incineration activities at its facility in South Baltimore. The consent decree, arising from a 2024 complaint by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) concerning air pollution violations, outlines a process to eliminate medical waste incineration at the site.
Youth leader Carlos Sanchez expressed that while the fight continues, this marks a major victory for the community. The settlement includes a transition to a waste transfer station with lower waste thresholds and mandates that Curtis Bay cease all incineration within 90 days of obtaining the necessary permit. It also imposes a $600,000 fine for noncompliance.
Community leaders, including Shashawnda Campbell of the South Baltimore Community Land Trust, welcomed the news but noted the lengthy nature of the fight. MDE Secretary Serena McIlwain emphasized that this victory addresses the pollution crisis impacting vulnerable communities. Activists remain vigilant as they aim to challenge other harmful facilities in Baltimore, particularly focusing on BRESCO, one of the largest trash incinerators in the nation.
A public hearing regarding air and water permit renewals for the plant is scheduled at the Curtis Bay Rec Center.
