10 US Oil Refineries Exceeding Limits For Cancer-Causing Benzene: Report

"Studies have shown that populations living around refineries, often people of color and low-income, have worse asthma".

"At least 10 US oil refineries have been emitting cancer-causing benzene above the federal government’s limits, according to a new report from the Environmental Integrity Project.

The group reviewed a year of air monitoring data recorded at the fence lines of 114 refineries, as reported to the Environmental Protection Agency.

The facilities are not breaking the law, but they are required by EPA to analyze the causes of the emissions and try to reduce them.

Eric Schaeffer, the executive director of the Environmental Integrity Project, said while some refineries have made improvements, others are still releasing benzene at harmful rates."

Emily Holden reports for the Guardian February 6, 2020.

Source: Guardian, 02/07/2020