Clean Air

In Arlington, Texas, residents grapple with methane emissions from local oil and gas wells. A federal rule requires operators to reduce methane leaks, but as Texas gathers public input for its state plan, concerns about health impacts persist. The rule aims to reduce pollution, but enforcement challenges loom.

The Air Sensor Summit on Sept. 19 in Dallas, hosted by city partners, will discuss low-cost air sensors. It features speakers from EPA and academia. The city has installed 24 sensors through D-CAMP to supplement existing monitors, addressing local air quality concerns. The free event includes lunch.

Residents of Grayson County oppose a proposed 660-acre cement plant by Black Mountain Cement in Dorchester, citing health and environmental concerns. The plant, linked to pollution, water threats, and economic disruption, faces public opposition, including from local mayors, before an upcoming TCEQ meeting.

As the Dallas-Fort Worth air quality improvement plan nears completion, officials aim to secure $105-$185M for transportation-focused pollution reduction through EPA grants. Initiatives include clean vehicle incentives, enhanced transit, road upgrades, and more. The grant targets the second-highest funding tier to avoid direct competition with the state of Texas.

Dallas-Fort Worth residents can provide input on the regional climate action plan through public meetings and an online survey. NCTCOG is developing a plan funded by the EPA to improve air quality and reduce emissions. Public feedback will shape finalized strategies focusing on energy and transportation.

A minority-owned neighborhood in southern Dallas took a moment to celebrate after an asphalt batch plant closed down in June. But following the victory, now residents of Joppa — pronounced Joppy by locals — are facing down another polluting foe.

Two days in Southeast Texas’ Big Thicket provided a rare escape from urban noise, highlighting the pervasive effects of human-generated noise pollution. Research indicates such noise harms health and wildlife, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural quiet. Places like Lennox Woods offer peaceful retreats, underscoring the need for advocacy.

The 2023 EPA Brownfields Cleanup Grant provides $1M for asbestos and contaminant removal from Fort Worth Convention Center. The cleanup, part of a $606M renovation and expansion, precedes arena demolition in 2026, promoting community revitalization and economic growth in Fort Worth.

Communities across Texas have urged the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to tighten regulations on concrete batch plants due to pollution concerns. Proposed permit changes aim to reduce emissions, but critics argue they don't fully address health impacts or cumulative pollution. If approved, new rules take effect next January.

A report criticized Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for being “reluctant” regulators, favoring industry self-policing. Texans testified about its ineffectiveness, urging reform for transparency and accountability, especially in communities of color. Lawmakers debated recommendations, highlighting tensions between regulation, cost, and public trust.