A leaking or ruptured CO2 pipeline releases a toxic asphyxiant that can harm or kill people and animals, including livestock. CO2 is a colorless and odorless gas that hugs the ground and displaces oxygen. Internal combustion engines do not function, making rescue efforts difficult or nearly impossible.
Carbon dioxide released from a ruptured pipeline can travel two or more miles. At concentrations of four percent, CO2 is considered to be immediately dangerous to life and health by the CDC. Two such ruptures – Satartia, MS in February 2020 and Sulphur, LA in April 2024 – sent people to the hospital, displaced residents and prompted shelter-in-place advisories. Reports state that victims continue to experience health issues from the exposure.
