Texans turn to Europe to thwart methane gas terminals

In an innovative cross-continental alliance, Texas residents are partnering with Europeans to block the construction of environmentally harmful liquefied natural gas export terminals on their native wetlands.

Aaron Cantú reports for Capital & Main.

In short:

• Texas residents are collaborating with European activists to discourage the construction of LNG terminals in South Texas that threaten local ecosystems and community health.
• These terminals would significantly increase greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to the emissions from 46 million cars annually.
• Activists aim to influence European energy policy by highlighting the social and environmental costs of importing fracked gas from the U.S.

Key quote:

"We’re going to try everything we can, and yell at any company, bank or investor who is involved."

— Bekah Hinojosa, co-founder of South Texas Environmental Justice Network

Why this matters:

While LNG terminals can create jobs and stimulate economic activity in the short term, some argue that the long-term benefits may not outweigh the potential costs and risks, particularly if the terminals contribute to environmental degradation or compromise public safety.