Big Leaks, Little Regulation Lax regulation by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality means oil and gas facilities are able to pollute with impunity. Texas Observer · Sep 1, 2022
Texas is facing its worst drought since 2011. Here’s what you need to know. The drought will likely continue into the fall and winter. The Texas Tribune · Aug 19, 2022
Nearly all unplanned chemical releases in Texas go unpunished Thousands of “emissions events” from chemical plants each year exceed permitted limits, but only a small fraction result in penalties from the state’s environmental agency. The Texas Tribune · Aug 17, 2022
There Are ‘No Real Consequences’ for Toxic Emissions Events In some cases, these “chemical releases” aren’t illegal. In others, state regulators give polluters the benefit of the doubt. Texas Observer · Aug 15, 2022
EPA launches investigation into Texas environment agency’s permitting process for concrete batch plants The federal agency launched the inquiry after complaints from the Harris County Attorney and Lone Star Legal Aid about how the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality issues permits to plants that predominantly impact communities of color. The Texas Tribune · Aug 10, 2022
Concrete Ideas New technology and methods may help clean up the cement and concrete industries—two of Texas’ most conspicuous polluters. Texas Observer · Jul 26, 2022
Smog levels in Texas surge during heat wave, bringing worst summer air quality in a decade Emissions are reacting with the summer heat to create high levels of smog, hazardous air pollution that damages the lungs. But state officials are pushing back on ozone pollution controls proposed by the EPA, arguing such rules would compromise the electric grid. The Texas Tribune · Jul 14, 2022
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Faces A Reckoning Texans are calling out the Texas Commission For Environmental Quality for failing to address environmental injustices throughout the state. Texas Observer · Jun 29, 2022
Texans tell environmental agency: Stop being reluctant to regulate industry A report from the state Sunset Advisory Commission found that Texas Commission on Environmental Quality commissioners have become “reluctant” regulators and often encourage industry to “self police.” The Texas Tribune · Jun 22, 2022
A Bipartisan Win for Texas: Electric School Buses Diesel-fueled engines harm kids’ health and pollute the atmosphere. Texas Observer · Apr 12, 2022
Koch-Owned Plant Finds Legal Ways to Pollute A lawsuit claims Port Arthur's Oxbow plant manipulated SO2 emissions. Texas Observer · Feb 17, 2022