SpaceX recently conducted a “full-pressure test” of its new Flame Deflector system at its Starship Super Heavy launch site in South Texas. However, the company did not apply for the necessary environmental permits that would allow it to discharge industrial process wastewater into the surrounding area, as required by the federal Clean Water Act.
The flame deflector system is designed to diffuse heat, sound, and energy generated by orbital test flights and launches of SpaceX’s largest rocket. The company hopes this rocket will eventually transport people and equipment to the moon and Mars.
Although SpaceX has not disclosed the amount of water used in the system test or where the water will run off and what it contains, the Starbase facility, which includes manufacturing operations, is located near wetlands crucial for endangered species and the indigenous population.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the state’s environmental regulator, confirmed that SpaceX had not applied for a Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) permit for its Starbase facility. SpaceX has previously obtained three stormwater permit authorizations.
Environmental engineer Eric Roesch stated that industrial process water is regulated under the Clean Water Act and that the discharge of this wastewater can degrade water quality and the biological integrity of surrounding wetlands over time.
Proper treatment and disposal of wastewater from industrial processes are required when permits are granted. Failure to obtain permits can result in criminal enforcement actions, including prison time and fines.
The incident raises concerns about SpaceX’s environmental impact, as previous tests resulted in explosions and damage to sensitive habitats. A lawsuit has been filed against the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) over authorizing SpaceX’s launches without a thorough environmental assessment.
It remains to be seen whether SpaceX’s activities violated environmental laws, as the TCEQ is currently evaluating the situation.
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