Blue Origin's Proposed Wastewater Discharge Into The Indian River Lagoon: Environmental Concerns ...

Background Document: Blue Origin's Proposed Wastewater Discharge into the Indian River Lagoon ### Introduction Blue Origin, a prominent spaceflight company founded by Jeff Bezos in 2000 (Blue Origin, n. d.), has submitted a draft permit application to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to discharge thousands of gallons of industrial wastewater into the Indian River Lagoon. The proposed discharge has sparked concerns among locals, environmentalists, and wildlife enthusiasts.

### The Indian River Lagoon The Indian River Lagoon is a vital estuary located on the east coast of Florida, stretching approximately 156 miles (251 km) from the Ponce de Leon Inlet in the north to the Jupiter Inlet in the south (Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program, n. d.). The lagoon is a critical habitat for numerous species of fish, shellfish, and wildlife, including the endangered manatee (Trichechus manatus) (U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, n. d.). However, the lagoon has faced significant environmental challenges, including pollution, algal blooms, and habitat degradation.

Pollution in the Indian River Lagoon Pollution in the Indian River Lagoon has been a persistent issue, with pollutants from agricultural runoff, sewage, and industrial activities ← →

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – A major spaceflight company is asking for a new permit to get rid of wastewater from rocket testing, cleaning, and cooling.

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