Former Texas Commission on Environmental Quality inspector Sheila Serna discusses the severe impact of petrochemical industries on health and environment, particularly in Texas and Louisiana.
Ray Levy Uyeda reports for Prism.
In short:
- Petrochemical facilities in Texas and Louisiana have caused significant pollution and health issues in local communities.
- The industry's influence extends to shaping regulations and public perception, often at the expense of environmental justice.
- Efforts to regulate pollution face challenges due to the industry's deep entrenchment in politics and economics.
Key quote:
"The amount of burden they place on people is just shocking."
— Sheila Serna, former inspector for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
Why this matters:
The pervasive influence of the petrochemical industry raises concerns about public health, environmental justice, and the need for more effective regulatory measures. This issue emphasizes the importance of holding industries accountable for their environmental and health impacts.
For additional context: Lives “devastated’ by petrochemical industry pollution in Texas.
