Port Arthur LNG project permitting

Permit revoked for Sempra Energy's LNG project in Texas, raising pollution concerns

The Port Arthur liquefied natural gas (LNG) project faces a setback as a federal court withdraws a crucial permit, highlighting concerns over pollution issues in minority communities.

Lylla Younes reports for Grist.


In short:

  • Federal court revokes essential permit for Sempra Energy's LNG facility in Port Arthur, Texas.
  • The decision addresses pollution concerns in predominantly Black and Latino neighborhoods.
  • The revoked permit stalls advancement of a significant LNG project.

Key quote: “Every step in this fight, we’ve won by standing up for Port Arthur communities of color to breathe free from toxic pollution.”

— John Beard, environmental advocate and former refinery worker.

Why this matters: The Gulf coast has seen an enormous LNG buildout in the past decade, raising concerns about emissions of both greenhouse gases and a variety of toxic chemicals that pollute nearby communities. The court's decision highlights a national conversation around continued use of fossil fuels and their impacts on community health.

Learn more at EHN about the environmental justice dimensions of energy production:

Your turn: What are the best ways to meet energy needs while protecting community health and the environment?

AI-based tools helped produce this text, with human oversight and editing.

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