Gas Stations: Soil Polluters And Their Underground Storage Tanks

Gas stations are a major contributor to soil pollution, which poses a significant threat to both human and environmental health. Soil pollution from gas stations can occur through various means, including underground pipes or tanks that rust or leak, releasing toxic contaminants into the surrounding soil and groundwater. The constant spilling of gasoline and the evaporation of toxic fumes also contribute to soil pollution. Additionally, the presence of hazardous chemicals, such as benzene and MTBE, in gasoline further exacerbates the problem. These chemicals have been linked to adverse health effects, including cancer, asthma, and birth defects. With a significant number of gas stations leaking and the challenges of cleanup efforts, the issue of soil pollution from gas stations is a pressing environmental concern that requires attention and action.

Gasoline leaks from underground tanks and pipes

UST leaks can occur due to various factors, including corrosion, physical damage, mechanical or electrical failures, and human error. Corrosion, caused by the chemical composition of the stored fuel, the pH level of the soil, or the presence of water, can lead to tank and pipe degradation over time. Physical damage can result from vehicle traffic, construction, or natural disasters like floods and earthquakes. Mechanical or electrical component failures, such as faulty shutoff valves or insecure hose connections, can also cause leaks. Additionally, human error during handling, transport, or maintenance of the tanks can inadvertently lead to spills or leaks.

The consequences of UST leaks can be severe, including groundwater contamination, damage to ecosystems, and potential harm to human health. The leaked fuel can destroy habitats and kill wildlife. Moreover, the contaminated groundwater may contain toxic fumes and chemicals, such as benzene, a known carcinogen. The fumes from these leaks can rise through cracks in nearby buildings, posing risks of fire and explosion and adverse health effects for occupants.

To address UST leaks, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented strict regulations and procedures. These include requirements for leak detection systems, spill and overfill protection, and corrosion protection. Modern tanks are made of fiberglass, which is more resistant to corrosion, and are often double-walled with interstitial monitoring devices to detect leaks promptly. Additionally, routine maintenance, regular inspections, and quick response plans are crucial for preventing and mitigating the impact of leaks.

While the EPA's focus has shifted towards prevention, the challenge of detecting leaks, especially in older stations, remains. The cleanup process for contaminated soil and groundwater can be costly and time-consuming, impacting the profitability of gas stations and the health of the surrounding environment. As a result, there is a growing movement to ban the construction of new gas stations in favour of a fossil-free future.

Toxic fumes from volatile chemicals

Gas stations emit toxic air pollution linked to asthma, birth defects, and cancer. The burning of gasoline produces greenhouse gases that contribute to warming in our atmosphere, and the byproducts have been linked to asthma and cancer. Gas stations also frequently leak petroleum, contaminating nearby groundwater, soil, and air, and causing damage to nearby properties.

The constant spilling of gasoline and the evaporation of leaked gasoline from underground tanks and pipes contribute to the release of toxic vapors. These fumes can spread through the soil and even reach nearby residential buildings, as seen in the case of a student apartment construction in Eugene. Gas stations with a history of leaking can leave behind contaminated soil containing high levels of gasoline-related compounds, even after remediation efforts.

To mitigate the impact of toxic fumes, vapor recovery systems can be installed at the underground tank's filling point. These systems use carbon to absorb the released vapors. Additionally, the EPA has outlined methods for leak detection, such as secondary containment with interstitial monitoring, automatic tank gauging systems, and groundwater monitoring. However, the responsibility for cleanup efforts has sometimes fallen on taxpayers, as gas station owners or insurance companies may be unwilling or unable to bear the costs.

The contamination of soil and groundwater by toxic fumes from gas stations poses a significant threat to the environment and human health. It underscores the importance of transitioning to cleaner energy sources and reducing our reliance on gasoline, as well as implementing effective measures to prevent and address pollution from existing gas stations.

MTBE and other carcinogens in groundwater

Gas stations are a major source of soil and groundwater pollution. One of the most concerning contaminants is methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE), a compound that was previously added to gasoline by oil companies to increase its oxygen content and improve combustion in car engines. MTBE is a known animal carcinogen and a possible human carcinogen, although its potential health effects on humans are still being studied.

MTBE has been detected in groundwater across the United States, and its presence can make drinking water supplies undrinkable due to its offensive taste and odor. It is highly soluble in water, approximately 28 to 42 times more so than benzene, and can spread laterally, creating a wide and long contaminant plume. This means that even small amounts of MTBE can contaminate large volumes of water. The contamination of groundwater by MTBE is primarily due to leaking underground storage tanks and pipelines, as well as transport accidents, leaking tanks, and overfilling at gas stations.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized the issue of MTBE contamination and is taking steps to address it. In 1999, an EPA panel recommended reducing the use of MTBE as a gasoline additive due to the toxic hazards it poses to drinking water. The EPA has also included MTBE in its unregulated contaminant monitoring regulations and is considering setting health standards for it. Additionally, the EPA has outlined methods for detecting leaks from underground tanks, such as secondary containment with interstitial monitoring and automatic tank gauging systems.

Other carcinogens and toxic compounds found in groundwater near gas stations include benzene, which is known to cause various types of cancer, and lead, which can be especially harmful to young children who may ingest lead-contaminated soil. Gasoline leaks and spills can also contaminate groundwater, and the constant spilling of gasoline during the filling process can contribute to significant pollution.

The presence of gas stations has been linked to increased risks of exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and BTEX chemicals, which are associated with harm to multiple systems in the human body, including the nervous, reproductive, and respiratory systems. The contamination of groundwater and soil by these carcinogens and toxic compounds poses a significant threat to human and environmental health, highlighting the importance of implementing measures to reduce pollution from gas stations and remediate existing contamination.

Lead contamination in soil

Soil is an extremely important part of every ecosystem, providing a home to many microbes and essential nutrients to plants. However, gas stations pose a significant threat to soil health and can cause soil pollution in several ways. One of the primary causes of lead contamination in soil is the historic use of leaded gasoline. Although leaded gasoline has been phased out in many countries, the lead residue in the soil can be resurfaced by human activity and become airborne. Gas stations that previously used leaded gasoline or stored it in underground tanks may have contaminated the surrounding soil.

Underground storage tanks and pipes can rust or leak over time, slowly releasing lead and other contaminants into the surrounding soil. Additionally, constant spilling and leakage of gasoline can also lead to significant soil pollution. Gasoline contains toxic chemicals, and when it evaporates, it releases toxic fumes that can contaminate the air and settle back down onto the soil.

The presence of lead-contaminated soil poses a significant health risk, especially to young children who may play in the dirt and inadvertently ingest lead-contaminated soil. Lead exposure in children has been linked to lower IQ, increased violence, and various health issues. Even small amounts of lead can build up in their bodies over time and cause damage to their developing systems.

To address lead contamination in soil, several measures can be taken. It is recommended to cover bare soil with sand, wood chips, stone, or sod to prevent direct contact. In areas where children play, it is crucial to prioritize soil testing and cleanup to ensure their safety. Additionally, planting gardens or vegetable patches away from older buildings with lead paint or busy roads can help reduce the risk of lead contamination in the soil.

While lead contamination in soil is a concerning issue, it is important to note that plants generally do not absorb lead purposefully as it is not a plant nutrient. However, the surfaces of plant leaves and roots may become covered with lead-contaminated soil and dust, so thorough washing before consumption is essential.

Health risks for residents and workers

Gas stations have been linked to soil pollution, which poses a significant risk to the health of both residents and workers. Soil pollution can occur due to underground pipes or storage tanks that rust or leak over time, slowly releasing contaminants into the surrounding area. The constant spilling and evaporation of gasoline also contribute to soil pollution. This pollution is not limited to the gas station premises but can extend to nearby buildings and even groundwater sources.

The health risks associated with soil pollution from gas stations are far-reaching. Gasoline and its byproducts contain toxic chemicals, including benzene, which is a known carcinogen. Long-term exposure to benzene has been linked to various cancers, such as leukemia, multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It is also associated with harm to the nervous, reproductive, immune, respiratory, cardiovascular, and fetal developmental systems. The toxic fumes released during the gas filling process or from leaks can be inhaled by residents and workers, increasing their risk of developing cancer and respiratory issues.

Children are especially vulnerable to the health risks associated with soil pollution. Lead, a toxic substance previously added to gasoline, can contaminate soil near old gas stations. Young children who play in contaminated soil and then put their hands or objects into their mouths are at risk of lead exposure. Repeated exposure to lead can cause lead buildup in their bodies, leading to serious health issues.

Additionally, the contamination of groundwater sources by petroleum and its derivatives is a significant concern. Groundwater is the source of drinking water for nearly half of the US population. When petroleum or its derivatives leak from underground storage tanks, they can contaminate groundwater, posing risks to residents who rely on wells for their drinking water. The consumption of contaminated water can lead to various health issues, although the specific effects would depend on the type and concentration of the contaminant.

The clean-up of polluted sites is essential to mitigate the health risks associated with soil pollution from gas stations. However, it is a costly and time-consuming process, often taking years or even decades to complete. During the clean-up process, residents and workers may still be exposed to the contaminants, underscoring the importance of thorough and expeditious remediation efforts.

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