SpaceX has issued a strong rebuttal, categorically denying claims and defending its environmental practices, following a report the company has been contaminating local waters with pollutants, including mercury at its Starbase facility in Boca Chica, Texas.
The report came from CNBC, which cited internal documents and communications between Texas regulators and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The report suggested that SpaceX’s water deluge system, essential for managing the intense heat generated during rocket launches, had been discharging mercury and other pollutants into nearby waters without proper authorization. These allegations were further supported by findings from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), which documented multiple instances of unauthorized wastewater discharge.
SpaceX took to X to defend itself against the allegations, saying the report is factually incorrect and misrepresent the company’s operations.
According to SpaceX, their water deluge system uses only clean, potable water, which is never exposed to industrial processes that could lead to contamination. The company also said that the system is designed to vaporize the majority of the water used during launches, significantly reducing any potential environmental impact.
SpaceX further pointed out that it has been working closely with both the TCEQ and the EPA throughout the development and testing of its water deluge system. The company says that regulatory personnel were present during the initial tests and that SpaceX operates under the Texas Multi-Sector General Permit.
This permit, SpaceX argues, covers all aspects of their water management practices, and the company insists that it has always complied with the relevant environmental regulations.
SpaceX also highlighted its rigorous environmental monitoring practices. The company conducts regular testing of soil, air, and water samples around the launch pad, all of which are analyzed by independent, accredited laboratories. These tests, according to SpaceX, have consistently shown negligible traces of contaminants, with mercury levels well below the limits set by the EPA for drinking water.
Additionally, SpaceX says it has implemented a series of protective measures to prevent any potential environmental harm. These include power-washing the launch pad before each use of the deluge system, capturing runoff in specially lined retention ponds, and hauling off any excess water for proper disposal.
The company claims that these steps, combined with the minimal amount of water released during operations, ensure that the environmental impact is negligible.
You can read SpaceX’s full response below.
CNBC’s story on Starship’s launch operations in South Texas is factually inaccurate.
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) August 12, 2024
Starship’s water-cooled flame deflector system is critical equipment for SpaceX’s launch operations. It ensures flight safety and protects the launch site and surrounding area.
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