SELC recognized as GASP’s Partner of the Year

SELC is honored to be recognized as Partner of the Year by GASP, the Greater-Birmingham Alliance to Stop Pollution, a nonprofit advancing healthy air and environmental justice throughout Alabama. 

SELC and GASP have worked together for years to reduce harmful emissions from two coke plants in north Birmingham, both of which have polluted the air and impacted the quality of life for surrounding Black neighborhoods for decades.

“We are honored to receive this award from GASP as a longtime partner and fellow advocate fighting for the right to clean air, especially for north Birmingham communities who have been subjected to polluting industries in their own backyards for far too long,” says Senior Attorney Sarah Stokes, who works out of SELC’s Birmingham office. 

Beyond SELC’s settlement with ABC Coke, Bluestone Coke has also ceased operations. If Bluestone Coke were to start up again, they would have to do it in compliance with the Clean Air Act, with surrounding communities’ safety and wellbeing in mind. 

Since 2018, SELC has also represented GASP in proceedings challenging Alabama Power’s punitive rooftop solar fees that make it difficult for residential customers and small businesses to produce their own energy and reduce their electric bills. As a result, these fees have hindered solar growth statewide. 

“SELC and GASP remain committed to doing this important collaborative work together and we will continue to stand up for Alabamians facing environmental injustices,” adds Stokes.