In their application, they say that certain Best Available Control Technology [to limit emissions] is not “economically reasonable” to install. To Exxon, economics weighs more important than the health of our citizens.
Exxon has paid an extra fee to get their permit application on a fast track. It is important that we slow it down to allow us and the TCEQ to assess its impact on our community. PCU has asked for a public meeting in Portland. We have asked Senator Zaffirini and Representative Lozano to ask for the same. We intend to check on whether or not they will respond to their constituents. You should do the same.
If a Public Meeting is held, people get to ask Exxon/SABIC and the TCEQ questions, any questions that concern you. They do not have to be technical or cite any regulations. They can be as simple as “my son [or mom] has asthma [or a respiratory disease], how will these emissions affect his/her health?” Or, “I am now surrounded by industry, what will these combined emissions do to my health?’ Or, “Our region is close to non-attainment in air quality standards (ozone), how will almost 3 million tons of greenhouse gases per year affect that status and me?”
The almost 3 million tons in greenhouses gases stated above was reported by the Caller times. Based upon our initial review of the application, we believe that to be understated. They also reported 917.79 tons of Volatile Organic Compounds will be emitted per year. That does NOT include the 2,532 tons of other pollutants, including sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxides, sulfuric acid, ammonia, and microscopic particulate matter that can be inhaled in a single breath.
These numbers are from Exxon’s application. They are their own numbers. We have consistently warned folks of what the potential could be, but even our expectations were below the mark on the largest steam cracker in the world. Of course, Exxon consistently told us all “we don’t know what the emissions will be, wait for our technical people to file the request with TCEQ”.
If, and when, this meeting is held, it is vitally important for all to show up. Everyone. The PCU does not need to be thanked with facebook posts. We need you to demonstrate that you are concerned about these emissions or the discharge of potentially contaminated water into our bays. We know that Exxon watches every move we make. Since we began the opposition, they have watched our every move. They handed out green shirts to oppose our red shirts. Within hours of our asking for a Public Meeting with TCEQ, Exxon stated to the media that they “invite the public participation” to show how much support there is for the project. That is NOT the purpose of a Public Meeting on the application for a permit. The purpose of this meeting is to ask questions within the jurisdiction of TCEQ’s inquiry. How will the plant’s emissions affect the quality of our air? How will it affect me, my spouse, my mom or dad, and my children?
In their application, they say that certain Best Available Control Technology [to limit emissions] is not “economically reasonable” to install. To Exxon, economics weighs more important than the health of our citizens.
So, let us prepare for the next stage of this battle. Think about how it impacts you and your loved ones. We have already shown you how to make comments. Do so. We will have more in the days ahead. Stay strong. Be vocal. Be involved. Show up when we get the chance. Ask questions and demand answers.
We know there are folks that are tired and are looking for other alternatives to maintain the quality of life that they enjoyed, and looked forward to, in our community. Well, while you are here, we are with you. Stay with us.