By Jennifer A. Dlouhy | Bloomberg
The Biden administration has taken a significant step in addressing the issue of metal pollution by declaring emissions from airplanes running on leaded aviation fuel as a threat to public health. The use of leaded aviation fuel, primarily in small piston-engine aircraft, has been linked to developmental delays, kidney disease, and other health concerns.
The endangerment finding comes from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and focuses on the leaded aviation fuel used in small piston-engine aircraft, where the metal is critical for performance enhancement.
Also see: Long Beach pursues plan to reduce leaded fuel at airport
Unlike commercial aircraft, jet fuel does not contain lead, and the use of lead in gasoline for cars and trucks has been banned for decades. As a result, lead emissions in the air have significantly decreased by 99% since 1980. However, around 220,000 older small planes that rely on aviation gasoline containing lead remain a major source of pollution.
In a news release, EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan stated, “Exposure to lead can cause irreversible and life-long health effects in children.” This declaration allows the administration to propose new standards to protect communities from the serious threat of lead pollution from aircraft.
The EPA finding itself does not ban or restrict the use, sale, or availability of leaded aviation fuel. However, it triggers a legal obligation under the Clean Air Act to propose standards for addressing lead emissions from the affected aircraft engines. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration has the authority to impose requirements concerning fuels and additives that can limit lead emissions. Both agencies will announce timelines for these regulatory actions as soon as possible.
Also see: Over FAA’s objection, Santa Clara County’s airports will switch to unleaded gas for small planes
Last August, Long Beach Airport became the fourth airport in the region to start using unleaded aviation fuel, contributing to environmental sustainability.
According to data from the Environmental Protection Agency, Long Beach Airport ranks second in the country for lead pollution out of more than 20,000 airports, with planes emitting nearly 1,600 pounds of lead each year.
To address this issue, the Long Beach City Council directed officials to collaborate with airport authorities and other stakeholders on a plan aimed at reducing lead pollution from planes. The council expressed particular concern for children living or attending school near the runways.
The impact of any new standards could be significant in states like Alaska, Colorado, and Florida, where piston-engine aircraft are more prevalent.
Environmental advocates first petitioned the federal government for an endangerment finding almost two decades ago.
Supporters argue that implementing new limits is crucial for safeguarding the health of residents near airports. A 2021 study revealed 20% higher blood lead levels in thousands of children living near one facility in Santa Clara County that serves as an example.
There is no known safe amount of lead exposure, as even a small amount in the blood has been linked to impaired cognitive ability, posing a particular risk to children.
Staff writer Christina Merino contributed to this report.
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