The Lone Star Chapter stands behind establishing surface water quality standards for salinity that support aquatic life and protect the Texas coast from desalination plant discharge and petrochemical industrial pollution. We will continue to fight to prohibit the discharge of pre-production plastic pollution to protect waterways from visible and invisible plastic pollution.
2025 Legislative Goal Summary
- Establish surface water quality standards for salinity that protect aquatic ecosystems and coastal areas from seawater desalination and petrochemical pollution.
- Prohibit the discharge of pre-production plastic pellets to curb visible and invisible pollution in Texas waterways.
- Increase funding for the Texas Water Fund.
- Support clarification and enhanced county powers including protection of natural resources, ability to enforce building codes and flood management protections and establish drainage fees and powers.
- Seek additional funding for the new statewide plugging program for abandoned water wells.
- Prioritize recycling of produced water from oil and gas operations in the oil and gas field and prohibit the discharge of produced water in Texas waterways.
- Fund studies on groundwater-surface water interaction to quantify the impact of groundwater withdrawals and water management on surface water rights.
2025 Bill Highlights
Currently, the Sierra Club Lone Star Chapter supports:
- HB 1145 - Morales Shaw, Penny: Relating to a study regarding the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in hydraulic fracturing.
Texas Water Facts
1. Salinity and Surface Water Standards Are Essential for Coastal Health
High salinity levels caused by industrial discharges and seawater desalination threaten aquatic ecosystems and coastal environments. Enhanced salinity standards can protect biodiversity and sustain marine life near industrial zones and desalination outflows. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) revised surface water standards in 2022 to incorporate new criteria but lacks specific protections for salinity impacts on sensitive habitats.
2. Seawater Desalination Plants Can Disrupt Aquatic Ecosystems
Seawater desalination discharge includes brine with high salinity and chemical residues, potentially causing toxic effects on marine life. Proper monitoring and salinity management practices are essential to mitigate these risks and preserve the integrity of coastal waters.
3. Plastic Pellet Pollution Harms Waterways and Wildlife
Pre-production plastics—including pellets (nurdles), powders, and flakes—are a major pollutant in Texas waterways, harming aquatic species and ecosystems. More stringent monitoring and discharge regulations will reduce both visible and microplastic contamination, protecting ecosystems and human health.
4. Water Pollution and Environmental Justice in Texas
Residents in low-income neighborhoods and communities of color bear the brunt of water pollution. Over two-thirds of pollution from plastic production impacts communities of color. Advocating for stronger water protection standards is essential to ensure equitable access to safe, clean water for all Texans, particularly those living in marginalized areas.
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