Texas has updated regulations for oilfield waste disposal, but critics say loopholes remain for toxic waste pits on private land.
Martha Pskowski reports for Inside Climate News.
In short:
- The new rules require companies to register toxic waste pits but stop short of mandating landowner notification or liners for most pits.
- Updated standards for commercial oilfield waste landfills include stricter construction, bonding and financial security requirements.
- Critics argue the changes fail to adequately address risks of groundwater contamination and the disposal of toxic byproducts from fracking.
Key quote:
“It is surprising when you realize the latitude the operators have to manage this waste without very much regulation.”
— Gabriel Rio, CEO of Milestone Environmental Services, a Houston-based oilfield waste management company
Why this matters:
Oilfield waste, including toxic byproducts from fracking, poses risks to groundwater and ecosystems, particularly when buried in unregulated pits. Stronger oversight is critical to protect public health and property, as Texas leads the nation in oil and gas production.
Related: Texas debates over new oil and gas waste rule heat up
