WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) declared its commitment today, March 14, 2024, to diminish toxic air pollution originating from gasoline distribution facilities, encompassing storage tanks, loading operations, and equipment leaks.

Highlighting the importance of these regulations, Joseph Goffman, Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation, emphasized their role in safeguarding public health, particularly in communities near gas distribution facilities, which often comprise people of color and low-income individuals. The rules, specifically excluding gas stations, are estimated to slash emissions of air toxics like benzene, hexane, toluene, and xylene by 2,220 tons annually, along with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by 45,400 tons yearly.

Impacts on Health and Environment

Exposure to toxic air pollutants can heighten the risk of cancer and other severe health conditions over a lifetime. These pollutants, including benzene, hexane, toluene, and xylene, can lead to a spectrum of health problems such as damage to the immune system, neurological issues, and respiratory complications. Additionally, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) possess short- and long-term adverse health effects, with evaporated VOCs contributing to the formation of secondary pollutants like ozone and secondary organic aerosol, which exacerbate fine particle pollution.

Regulatory Measures

The final rule necessitates gasoline distribution facilities to adopt cost-effective practices and control technologies to curtail emissions from storage tanks, loading operations, and equipment leaks. EPA has also solidified New Source Performance Standards for Bulk Gasoline Terminals, aiming to optimize emissions reduction systems for loading operations and equipment leaks.

Considerations and Projected Outcomes

EPA has meticulously assessed feedback received during the public comment period, integrating several adjustments to augment environmental protection while minimizing adverse impacts on small businesses and gas prices. By reducing air emissions such as leaks at these facilities, EPA anticipates annualized cost savings, offering mutual benefits for companies, consumers, and environmental justice communities.