Alpha Natural Resources controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2014
Illegal toxic discharges into Appalachian waterways
Alpha settled enforcement claims involving illegal toxic discharges into hundreds of waterways across Virginia, West Virginia, and other Appalachian states. The resolution included a $27.5 million fine and $200 million for pollution-reduction measures, described by the EPA as the largest coal-company permit-violation case of its kind at that time.
2011
Upper Big Branch mine disaster liabilities
Through the acquisition of Massey Energy, Alpha inherited legal and financial liabilities connected with the 2010 Upper Big Branch mine explosion, which killed 29 miners. Alpha agreed to a settlement with the U.S. Attorney that included compensation for survivors and victims’ families, while mine-safety authorities separately assessed penalties related to safety violations.