EPA says vapor-capturing rubber boot for gas pumps unnecessary

qiangzi

Monday, May 14, 2012

Washington, D.C. - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that the systems used at gas station pumps to capture harmful gasoline vapors while refueling cars, the vapor-capturing rubber boot, can be phased out. Modern vehicles are equipped to capture those emissions. Beginning later this year, states may begin the process of phasing out vapor recovery systems at the pump since approximately 70 percent of all vehicles are equipped with on-board systems that capture these vapors. This final rule will ensure that air quality and public health are protected while potentially saving the approximately 31,000 affected gas stations located in mostly urban areas more than $3,000 each year when fully implemented. This final rule responds to public comments on EPA’s July 2011 proposal, and will take effect upon publication in the Federal Register.