south texas
Newsletter
Credit: AvigatorPhotoGrapher/Big Stock Photo
Court overturns approval for South Texas LNG export plants
A federal court in Washington, D.C., has invalidated the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's approval of two massive liquefied natural gas export projects in South Texas, citing significant environmental assessment flaws.
Dylan Baddour reports for Inside Climate News and Berenice Garcia reports for The Texas Tribune.
In short:
- The court ruled that FERC failed to properly evaluate the environmental justice, climate and air pollution impacts of the Rio Grande LNG and Texas LNG projects.
- FERC's inadequate review included an insufficient environmental justice analysis and incorrect air pollution data, leading to procedural violations.
- The projects, worth billions, face opposition from local communities and environmental groups but have support from local political leaders.
Key quote:
"We do not see how the Commission could justify its decision to skip those fundamental procedural steps."
— U.S. Court of Appeals for the Washington, D.C. Circuit
Why this matters:
The ruling underscores the importance of thorough environmental impact assessments for large-scale energy projects, emphasizing legal and community concerns. These projects could significantly impact local ecosystems, prompting a broader debate on balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.
Keep reading...Show less
Newsletter
Credit: William Silver/Big Stock Photo
Water delivery disputes between Mexico and US impact South Texas
As another hot summer approaches, South Texas faces water shortages due to Mexico's failure to meet its obligations under an 80-year-old water treaty.
In short:
- Mexico has not met its water delivery obligations to the U.S. as required by a 1944 treaty.
- Farmers and municipalities in South Texas are preparing for significant water cutbacks.
- Political tensions in Mexico and the U.S. are complicating efforts to resolve the water delivery issue.
Key quote:
“We haven’t gotten any rains or significant inflows. It’s not looking good.”
— Maria-Elena Giner, commissioner of the International Boundary and Water Commission
Why this matters:
Water shortages could severely impact agricultural production and municipal water supplies in South Texas. Farmers are already preparing for the worst, anticipating crop losses that could impact the local economy and food supply. Cities are implementing stringent water conservation measures, urging residents to cut back on usage. Health officials warn that the scarcity could lead to increased health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and young children, who are more susceptible to the effects of extreme heat.
Keep reading...Show less
Border wall settlement won't stop flooding or erosion at Rio Grande, experts say
Federal authorities have reached a deal that gives builders of the privately funded fence control over where to inspect for damage and leeway over which issues they choose to repair.
Another Texas House primary showdown is coming, and it's all about climate policy and Big Oil donations
Jessica Cisneros is mounting another primary challenge against Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Tex.), this time targeting fossil fuel industry donations.
www.sacurrent.com
Since the pandemic, more San Antonians are demanding high quality, locally raised meat
Alamo City residents aren't alone in turning to smaller, independent farms as they look for better sources of meat.
www.washingtonpost.com
Second Saharan dust plume to reach U.S.
The dust has contributed to degraded air quality and lowered visibility in some areas.
`Toxic 100’ air study reveals U.S. super polluters
Just 100 industrial facilities are to blame for more than a third of U.S. toxic air emissions. A new report ranks the biggest offenders.
ORIGINAL REPORTING
MOST POPULAR
CLIMATE
