Think you know the real cost of filling up your tank? Gas stations have been keeping a dirty little secret that’s costing both your wallet and the planet. From leaking underground tanks to toxic air pollution, the hidden environmental impact of gas stations will make you think twice about topping off.
1. Underground Storage Tank Leaks
One of the biggest environmental hazards posed by gas stations is leaking underground storage tanks. These tanks, which hold thousands of gallons of gasoline and diesel fuel, are prone to corrosion and cracking over time. When they leak, toxic chemicals like benzene and MTBE can seep into the surrounding soil and groundwater, contaminating drinking water sources and harming wildlife.
Shockingly, it’s estimated that almost every gas station will eventually experience a leak from its underground tanks. Across the U.S., there are over 60,000 contaminated sites waiting to be cleaned up, with a price tag of around $22 billion. And while newer tanks are less likely to leak than older ones, no tank is immune to deterioration and failure over time.
As a consumer, you can help reduce the demand for gasoline and the need for these risky underground tanks by cutting down on driving when possible. Consider carpooling, taking public transit, biking or walking for shorter trips. And when you do need to fill up, look for gas stations that have newer tanks and leak detection systems in place.
You can also support efforts to phase out gas stations in favor of cleaner transportation options like electric vehicle charging stations. The more we transition away from fossil fuels, the less we’ll have to worry about the ticking time bombs lurking beneath gas stations.
2. Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
It’s not just what’s happening underground that’s cause for concern at gas stations. Every time you fill up your tank, harmful pollutants are released into the air, contributing to smog, respiratory problems, and climate change. Gas stations are a major source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other toxic chemicals that can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, and even cancer.
What’s more, the transportation sector, of which gas stations are a key part, is responsible for a whopping 29% of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. Every gallon of gasoline burned emits around 20 pounds of carbon dioxide, a major contributor to global warming. By enabling the continued use of fossil fuel vehicles, gas stations are directly fueling the climate crisis.
To minimize your exposure to gas station air pollution, try not to linger near the pumps longer than necessary. Use the hold-open clip on the nozzle to avoid breathing in fumes, and consider wearing a mask if you’re particularly sensitive. Better yet, switch to an electric or hybrid vehicle to dramatically reduce your tailpipe emissions.
You can also support policies and regulations aimed at reducing air pollution from gas stations, such as vapor recovery systems that capture escaping fumes. But ultimately, the best solution is to phase out gas stations altogether in favor of cleaner energy sources.
3. Lack of Liability for Environmental Damage
Despite the well-documented environmental risks posed by gas stations, many oil companies have managed to dodge responsibility for cleaning up the messes they’ve made. For decades, the petroleum industry was aware of the dangers of leaking underground storage tanks, but lobbied against regulations and shifted liability onto independent gas station owners through sneaky fine print in contracts.
Even when federal rules were finally put in place in the 1980s, many station owners couldn’t afford the costly upgrades and were forced to close up shop. Rather than step up to clean up their own environmental disasters, oil giants like Exxon and Shell cut ties with contaminated properties, leaving taxpayers and local communities to foot the bill.
Some states have passed laws to hold polluters accountable for their messes, but far too many contaminated gas station sites still sit idle, leaching toxins into the environment with no cleanup in sight. As a consumer, you can pressure your elected officials to crack down on negligent oil companies and beef up regulations to prevent future gas station pollution.
You can also vote with your wallet by patronizing gas stations owned by more responsible companies, or better yet, ditching gasoline altogether for cleaner energy sources. The more we can move away from fossil fuels, the less power and influence companies will have to shirk their environmental responsibilities.
4. Hazardous Waste
It’s not just gasoline that makes gas stations environmental hazards. Many of the products sold at gas stations, from motor oil to antifreeze to windshield washer fluid, contain toxic chemicals that can harm human health and the environment if not disposed of properly. When these substances leak or get dumped down storm drains, they can contaminate soil, groundwater, and waterways.
What’s more, many gas stations don’t have adequate systems in place to safely collect and dispose of hazardous waste like used oil and oil filters. In some cases, employees may simply dump these substances out back or into the nearest dumpster to avoid the hassle and expense of proper disposal. This can lead to serious environmental contamination and legal liability for the gas station owner.
As a consumer, you can reduce the hazardous waste generated by gas stations by properly disposing of your own used oil, antifreeze, and other automotive fluids at designated recycling centers or auto parts stores. Never dump these substances down storm drains or onto the ground. You can also choose gas stations that have proper waste collection facilities and responsible disposal practices.
Businesses can also play a role by implementing environmentally friendly practices like oil filter recycling and oil water separators. By properly managing hazardous waste, gas stations can minimize their environmental impact and protect public health.
5. Water Pollution
Gasoline spills and leaks aren’t just a problem for soil – they can also seriously pollute nearby waterways. Runoff from gas stations can carry oil, grease, heavy metals, and other contaminants into storm drains, which often empty directly into rivers, lakes and oceans without any treatment. This can have devastating impacts on aquatic ecosystems and human health.
Spilled gasoline can also seep through cracks in pavement and into groundwater, potentially contaminating drinking water sources. Many gas stations are located in close proximity to wells and reservoirs, putting these vital resources at risk. Once groundwater is polluted with gasoline chemicals, it can be extremely difficult and costly to clean up.
To help prevent gas station water pollution, choose locations that have proper spill containment and stormwater management systems in place. Avoid filling up near water bodies, and always clean up any drips or spills at the pump promptly. If you spot a gas station with poor housekeeping practices that could lead to pollution, report it to local environmental authorities.
Policymakers can also support stronger regulations and enforcement of gas station water pollution prevention, such as requiring the use of double-walled tanks, leak detection systems, and regular inspections. We all have a responsibility to protect our precious water resources from contamination.
6. Deceptive Pricing Practices
Some gas stations engage in misleading pricing practices that lure in customers with the promise of a discount, only to charge them more than expected. One common tactic is to advertise a low cash price on signs visible from the street, but charge a higher price for credit and debit card purchases, which most consumers use.
In the case of Shell Oil, the company has been accused of deceptive “bait-and-switch” pricing. Consumers see the enticing cash discount and assume it applies when they pay with a debit card, since the funds are withdrawn directly from their bank account. But Shell quietly classifies debit as equivalent to credit, charging the higher price while the unwitting customer is none the wiser.
Other gas stations may advertise a price that’s only available with a car wash purchase, club membership, or other hidden strings attached. Some may charge more for premium grades than the usual price difference seen at other stations. These deceptive practices dupe consumers into paying more than they bargained for and erode trust.
As a savvy consumer, always read the fine print on gas station signage and advertising. Don’t assume that debit transactions qualify for a cash discount. If you see a great deal, ask the attendant or cashier if there are any special conditions. And always review your receipt before leaving the station to spot any discrepancies between the posted and charged price.
7. Toxic Fumes Near Homes and Schools
Many gas stations are located in close proximity to residential neighborhoods, schools, and daycares, exposing vulnerable populations to toxic fumes. A study found that gas stations may emit up to 10 times more cancer-causing benzene than previously thought. Those living or attending school nearby are at higher risk of breathing in these hazardous chemicals daily.
Gas station owners are supposed to use vapor recovery systems on pumps to limit toxic emissions, but these systems can fail or be improperly maintained. Leaks and spills can also allow fumes to escape into the surrounding area. The health effects of long-term benzene exposure include blood disorders like leukemia, anemia, and bone marrow damage.
If you live or spend time near a gas station, pay attention to any unusual odors or visible fumes that could indicate a problem with emissions controls. Report suspected vapor leaks to the gas station manager and local health department. Consider using an air purifier in your home and limiting time spent outdoors nearby, especially during peak fueling times.
Advocate for stricter zoning laws that prohibit gas stations from being built near homes and schools. Support the transition to electric vehicles and a phase-out of gas stations altogether to protect community health. No one should have to breathe in toxic fumes just to live or learn near a gas station.
So, there you have it – the dirty secrets that gas stations don’t want you to know about. From leaking tanks to deceptive prices to toxic fumes, the true cost of gasoline is often hidden from consumers. But by making informed choices and speaking out for change, we can hold gas stations accountable and pave the way for a cleaner, greener future beyond fossil fuels. The more we know, the more we can protect our health, our environment, and our wallets at the pump.
