'It does not have to be this way. These disasters are preventable.'
Not all Port Neches residents blame TPC Group for the explosions, because many Texans tend to accept them unfailingly as 'part of the risks of living and doing business' with the petrochemical industry.
Port Neches residents, Grist's economy."
So, even after the series of explosions at the Texas Petroleum Chemicals Group plant the day before Thanksgiving that caused orders to evacuate and shelter in place, she writes, "many are hesitant to blame TPC Group for the blast."
Dr. Elena Craft, the senior director for climate and health at the Environmental Defense Fund, says "that because violations and safety incidents happen so regularly at petrochemical plants, especially in 'oil-friendly' Texas, residents have come to accept it as part of the risks of living and doing business in the area."
"It does not have to be this way," she adds. "These disasters are preventable in large parts, the state could be doing more and having a job shouldn’t cost you your life, livelihood or your health.”
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