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Jefferson County, Texas, is approving significant petrochemical developments, including Woodside Energy's ammonia plant and Energy Transfer's ethane cracker, despite health risks highlighted by experts. Woodside's facility will produce anhydrous ammonia and is permitted to add nearly 80,000 pounds of nitrogen oxides annually, raising concerns about respiratory issues and smog.

The plant has received a 10-year property-tax exemption and a $209 million tax abatement from local school districts. Meanwhile, the ethane cracker is slated to release nearly 10 million pounds of volatile organic compounds, contributing to health risks such as cancer and respiratory problems.

Local opposition exists, but the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality claims the projects will not adversely affect health or the environment. Jefferson County struggles with ozone pollution, earning an 'F' from the American Lung Association, with existing facilities already contributing to high cancer risks.