Environmental activists in South Texas are opposing SpaceX’s expansion near Boca Chica Beach, citing pollution concerns and loss of public access to the area.
Berenice Garcia reports for The Texas Tribune.
In short:
- A coalition of locals and environmental groups is protesting SpaceX’s increased activity, fearing harm to Boca Chica Beach’s ecosystem.
- The Federal Aviation Administration has paused some of SpaceX’s operations after concerns over water pollution and improper permits.
- SpaceX is seeking approval to launch 25 rockets per year from the site, which could further limit public beach access.
Key quote:
“SpaceX has always been polluting. And I think people are kind of brainwashed into thinking that rockets –– constructing rockets, testing rockets and blowing up rockets –– that somehow that's not causing pollution.”
— Christopher Basaldú, a member of the Carrizo/Comecrudo Tribe
Why this matters:
SpaceX’s operations raise serious environmental concerns, including water contamination and loss of access to natural spaces. Increased rocket launches could exacerbate these issues, affecting both local communities and wildlife.
Related: SpaceX allegedly contaminates Texas waters with mercury
