HOUSTON – In a new report, the Environmental Integrity Project (EIP) unveiled growing health and environmental risks as plastics production facilities release toxic wastewater into Texas waterways.
The report highlights the failure of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate wastewater from plastics plants, resulting in significant harm to public health and ecosystems.
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(( Quiz answers at bottom of article ))
According to EIP, the plastics manufacturing industry dumps almost a half billion gallons of wastewater per day into U.S. waterways, and a failure of EPA oversight means that most plants have no limits on the amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, 1,4-dioxane, dioxins, and other harmful pollutants they are allowed to release.
The report found chemicals such as benzene, chromium, and other hazardous pollutants in wastewater discharged by plastics plants.
What are nurdles and microplastics?
Plastic nurdles and microplastics are washing up along Texas shores and being found in waterways.
According to EIP, dozens of plastics manufacturers across the country make tiny plastic pellets called “nurdles” – as well as plastic flakes, beads, and powders – that are molded into consumer plastic goods. Although absolute numbers are not known, releases of these plastic particles into waterways are common.
How does it impact your health?
These toxins, linked to cancer, liver damage, and other severe health issues, often enter waterways that provide drinking water for Texans and support aquatic life.
Residents in low-income neighborhoods and communities of color bear the brunt of this pollution. Over two-thirds of pollution from plastic production impacts communities of color, according to EIP.
Many live near plastics plants clustered along the Gulf Coast and the Houston Ship Channel, regions home to one of the nation’s largest petrochemical hubs.
Texas wildlife and agriculture
Beyond human health, Texas’ waterways and wildlife are under threat as well. Pollutants from plastics production can ruin aquatic ecosystems, harming fish populations and disrupting the food chain. This pollution also threatens the livelihoods of fishermen and agricultural communities who depend on clean water sources.
The report criticizes the EPA for failing to update pollution standards for plastics plants, some of which date back decades. Current regulations do not account for modern production methods or the full scope of toxic discharges, leaving communities vulnerable.
Local advocacy groups are calling for more robust regulations and increased monitoring of industrial discharges. They also urge Texans to reduce reliance on single-use plastics to limit demand for new production.
Residents can participate in cleanup efforts and support organizations working to hold polluters accountable. Some community leaders are pushing for legislation to strengthen oversight and improve transparency around industrial wastewater discharges.
For more information, visit the Environmental Integrity Project’s website at environmentalintegrity.org.
Quiz answers:
1) Nurdles
2) All of the above
3) All of the above