Trump-Backed LNG Expansion in Louisiana Sparks Environmental Concerns

The Plaquemines LNG export terminal in Louisiana is seeking to expand under a new Trump administration 'emergency' permitting process. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers granted the terminal fast-tracked permitting after President Donald Trump declared a 'national energy emergency.' The expansion would make the facility the largest LNG export terminal in North America, increasing its production capacity from 1.4 trillion cubic feet to around 2.3 trillion cubic feet per year.

The Army Corps cut the public comment period from 30 days to just 10 days, ending July 2, and is expected to quickly approve the expansion. Environmentalists warn that this expedited review could reduce scrutiny of dredging, in-water construction, and filling marshlands in a region suffering from rapid land loss.

Plaquemines LNG released about 8.1 million tons of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases per year, making it one of the state's biggest polluters. The terminal's expansion would increase emissions to at least 9 million tons of greenhouse gases per year, with some using carbon capture and sequestration technology.

U.S. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise celebrated the rapid development of the Plaquemines site, saying it will spur economic activity and create jobs.