In a move reflecting the ongoing industrial boom, Texas coast's petrochemical sector gears up for growth with a new lake initiative.
Dylan Baddour reports for Inside Climate News.
In short:
- Texas regulators have greenlit a 2,500-acre reservoir to supply water to burgeoning chemical plants and refineries, aiming to meet their escalating demand.
- Formosa Plastics eyes expansion in Texas following stalled efforts in Louisiana, hinting at a significant boost in industrial activity around Lavaca Bay.
- Environmental concerns rise as Formosa Plastics, known for previous pollution violations, seeks to increase its footprint and water usage amid opposition.
Key quote:
“Formosa got such hell from people in Louisiana stopping them that they keep it very quiet when they are trying to expand."
— Diane Wilson, a retired Gulf Coast fisherwoman
Why this matters:
Often, petrochemical plants are located near lower-income communities and communities of color, who bear the brunt of pollution and health risks associated with these facilities. This raises significant environmental justice concerns, as these communities may lack the resources to advocate for cleaner environments or relocate to less polluted areas.
Be sure to read EHN journalist Cami Ferrell’s new piece: Fossil fuels and petrochemicals may be making us sicker.
