Read more at The Guardian

• 100% Noncompliance: Every fully operational Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal in the U.S. has violated federal pollution limits in recent years, according to an analysis of public records.
• Air Act Breaches: All seven operational LNG terminals were in noncompliance with the Clean Air Act for at least one quarter between October 2022 and July 2025.
  • The most frequent offenders, Sabine Pass and Calcasieu Pass (both in Louisiana), have been out of compliance with air pollution standards since 2022.
• Water Act Breaches: Five of the seven terminals were in noncompliance with the Clean Water Act during the same period, with four breaching regulations for at least two quarters.
  • Violations included the proven emission of illegal amounts of bacteria, zinc, oil, and other pollutants into waterways.
• Major Penalties: The Freeport LNG terminal in Texas received the highest financial penalties ($493,804) following a major explosion in June 2022.
• Industry Claim vs. Reality: The report contradicts the LNG industry’s portrayal of itself as “environmentally friendly,” stating that companies do not consistently comply with air and water laws.
• Trump Administration Action: The findings come as the Trump administration has lifted a pause on LNG exports (previously placed by Joe Biden) and is aiming to fast-track approval for new terminals to boost sales to Europe and Asia.
• Call to Slow Down: Environmental advocates argue that state and federal agencies should be slowing down and scrutinizing new permit applications given the industry’s poor compliance record, rather than speeding up reviews.
• Accelerated Growth and Risk: Four new terminals and one expansion are already under construction, expected to increase the country’s LNG exports by 60% annually, which critics warn will create more opportunities to put communities at risk.
• Consumer and Climate Harm: Increased LNG exports are projected to raise domestic natural gas prices for Americans by more than 30%. Additionally, exported LNG emits far more greenhouse gases than coal, undermining claims that it is a cleaner alternative.