SpaceX under fire for environmental breaches at Texas launch site

SpaceX is currently facing scrutiny for environmental violations at its Starbase facility in south Texas. According to a CNBC report , the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have issued notices to SpaceX for unauthorized releases of industrial wastewater during rocket launches.

Documents obtained by CNBC indicate that an August 2023 complaint led TCEQ to uncover several instances where SpaceX operated without the necessary wastewater management approvals.

By March 2024, the EPA found that SpaceX had violated the Clean Water Act , intensifying scrutiny of its environmental practices.

SpaceX disputed these claims , calling them "factually inaccurate" in a post on X and asserting that its launch operations are safe. The company highlighted the use of potable water and measures to prevent contamination, asserting compliance with TCEQ’s general permit for its water deluge system.

In response to these regulatory concerns, SpaceX said it has actively engaged with regulatory bodies. After discussions, the company stated that the EPA has permitted ongoing operations while it seeks an individual permit for future expansions.

CNBC also reported concerns from environmental experts about potential mercury contamination and its risks to local wildlife and ecosystems. SpaceX refuted the claims, citing test results showing no detectable harmful substances.

SpaceX is continuing its Starship program , aiming to send people to the moon and eventually Mars. It is working to secure the necessary environmental approvals critical to maintaining its launch schedule while under close regulatory and public scrutiny.

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