On October 15, 2025, Governor Jeff Landry issued Executive Order JML 25-119, titled “CO₂ Capture and Storage Limits and Moratorium.” At first glance, this order might seem like a proactive measure in response to public concerns about carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) projects. However, it is just a bunch of words and more greenwashing that fails to address the legitimate fears of Louisianans regarding environmental safety and property rights.
The moratorium on CCS does not go far enough.
The executive order presents itself as a moratorium on new Class VI carbon storage applications but does little to alleviate the ongoing risks posed by existing CCS projects. Currently, there are 31 active applications for 104 Class VI injection wells, with one already approved in Hackberry. While the moratorium halts new applications, it conveniently overlooks existing projects that continue to pose significant threats to our environment and communities. The most alarming concern is the potential contamination of the Chicot Aquifer, a vital source of drinking water for hundreds of thousands in central and southwest Louisiana—a detail the governor neglects to mention.
CCS puts our groundwater at risk.
The Chicot Aquifer serves as a critical water supply across multiple parishes, including Calcasieu, Rapides, and Vernon, providing approximately 48% of Louisiana’s groundwater. With at least 31 ongoing Class VI CO₂ injection projects located near or directly above the aquifer’s recharge zone, the risks are alarming. Injected carbon dioxide can permeate geological faults and abandoned wellbores, forming carbonic acid that poses a threat to both soil and potable water. By ignoring these serious hazards, the governor is failing in his constitutional duty to protect public health and safety.
Enough is enough with this state doing the industry’s bidding and putting profit before people. We, the people of Louisiana, do not want carbon capture scams and CCS; we want clean water and clean air.
It is time for the Governor to side with the people and immediately suspend all Class VI well activities, including those currently approved or pending. As we advocate for the health and safety of our communities, we call on our leaders to prioritize the voices of the people over corporate agendas.
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