ExxonMobil request to increase pollution at Baytown facility to go to trial
AUSTIN, Texas — A judge with the Texas State Office of Administrative Hearings on Thursday ordered ExxonMobil to face a contested case hearing over its application to increase emissions at its Baytown, Texas, olefins plant. The judge ruled that Environment Texas and its members who live in Baytown are affected by Exxon’s air pollution enough to be granted “party status” in the upcoming hearing. Exxon is seeking a permit to burn more gas and make more chemicals at its Baytown manufacturing facility.
“ExxonMobil’s Baytown facility is already one of the biggest polluters in the nation and now it wants permission to pollute even more,” said Environment Texas Executive Director Luke Metzger. “As our members have testified, Exxon is not a good neighbor to Baytown residents and the state of Texas should reject this permit application.”
ExxonMobil has applied to the TCEQ for a permit to build a new ethylene unit at the Baytown Olefins Plant, which produces chemicals used to produce plastic packaging and other products. The permit would allow ExxonMobil to increase greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1,453,293 tons per year, as well as increasing hazardous air pollution in the local community. Environment Texas member Shirley Williams testified that even before this proposed expansion, “the smell is so bad I don’t go outside unless I absolutely have to.” Environment Texas member Mike Szumski testified that Exxon has “ruined my life” with its constant pollution.
A contested case hearing is a trial-like process which can occur when community members disagree with a permit or project. The state administrative law judge will rule on whether or not the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) should grant the permit. The Environmental Integrity Project is representing Environment Texas in the challenge.
“Plastic is another lifeline for the fossil fuel industry. ExxonMobil shouldn’t be allowed to increase any emissions; instead it should invest in complying with current environmental standards,” said Yvette Arellano, Director, Fenceline Watch.
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