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Xiong Y, Bari MA, Xing Z, Du K. Ambient volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in two coastal cities in western Canada: Spatiotemporal variation, source apportionment, and health risk assessment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 706:135970. [PMID: 31846882 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Ambient volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in urban areas is of great interest due to their important roles in the atmospheric photochemistry as well as their potential adverse effects on public health. Limited information is available on the spatiotemporal variation, sources, and health risks of VOCs in the coastal cities of Canada, where the population density is much higher than inland areas. In this study, we investigated ambient VOCs levels, their potential sources and associated health risks in two coastal cities in Metro Vancouver during 2012-2016. Levels of the total measured VOCs were relatively higher in an industrial region in Port Moody (56.7 μg/m3) than an urban area of Burnaby south (38.0 μg/m3). A clear seasonality was observed for VOCs species with significantly higher levels in winter than in summer except for isoprene. Alkanes were the most dominant compounds at both sites accounting for up to 59.4% of the total measured VOCs, followed by halocarbons, aromatics, and alkenes. Industrial-related emissions (30.5%) and traffic-related emissions (35.8%) were the major sources contributing to ambient VOCs in Port Moody and Burnaby south, respectively, as calculated by the positive matrix factorization (PMF) model. A hybrid health risk assessment strategy using deterministic and stochastic approaches revealed that non-cancer risks of ambient VOCs exposure were all below the safe level of 1 at both cities, while the cumulative cancer risks of toxic VOCs exposure in Port Moody (9.2 × 10-5) and Burnaby south (7.6 × 10-5) were significantly higher than the provincial acceptable risk level (1.0 × 10-5). Surprisingly, the probabilities for cumulative cancer risks of VOCs exceeding the US EPA tolerable risk level (1.0 × 10-4) were 33.7% and 18.6% in Port Moody and Burnaby south, respectively. From a risk management perspective, greater emphasis on the reduction of emissions of carbon tetrachloride, benzene, and 1,3-butadiene is highly recommended in both cities of Metro Vancouver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Xiong
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Md Aynul Bari
- Department of Environmental and Sustainable Engineering, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Zhenyu Xing
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Ke Du
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
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Holder C, Hader J, Avanasi R, Hong T, Carr E, Mendez B, Wignall J, Glen G, Guelden B, Wei Y. Evaluating potential human health risks from modeled inhalation exposures to volatile organic compounds emitted from oil and gas operations. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2019; 69:1503-1524. [PMID: 31621516 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2019.1680459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Some states and localities restrict siting of new oil and gas (O&G) wells relative to public areas. Colorado includes a 500-foot exception zone for building units, but it is unclear if that sufficiently protects public health from air emissions from O&G operations. To support reviews of setback requirements, this research examines potential health risks from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released during O&G operations.We used stochastic dispersion modeling with published emissions for 47 VOCs (collected on-site during tracer experiments) to estimate outdoor air concentrations within 2,000 feet of hypothetical individual O&G facilities in Colorado. We estimated distributions of incremental acute, subchronic, and chronic inhalation non-cancer hazard quotients (HQs) and hazard indices (HIs), and inhalation lifetime cancer risks for benzene, by coupling modeled concentrations with microenvironmental penetration factors, human-activity diaries, and health-criteria levels.Estimated exposures to most VOCs were below health criteria at 500-2,000 feet. HQs were < 1 for 43 VOCs at 500 feet from facilities, with lowest values for chronic exposures during O&G production. Hazard estimates were highest for acute exposures during O&G development, with maximum acute HQs and HIs > 1 at most distances from facilities, particularly for exposures to benzene, 2- and 3-ethyltoluene, and toluene, and for hematological, neurotoxicity, and respiratory effects. Maximum acute HQs and HIs were > 10 for highest-exposed individuals 500 feet from eight of nine modeled facilities during O&G development (and 2,000 feet from one facility during O&G flowback); hematologic toxicity associated with benzene exposure was the critical toxic effect. Estimated cancer risks from benzene exposure were < 1.0 × 10-5 at 500 feet and beyond.Implications: Our stochastic use of emissions data from O&G facilities, along with activity-pattern exposure modeling, provides new information on potential public-health impacts due to emissions from O&G operations. The results will help in evaluating the adequacy of O&G setback distances. For an assessment of human-health risks from exposures to air emissions near individual O&G sites, we have utilized a unique dataset of tracer-derived emissions of VOCs detected at such sites in two regions of intense oil-and-gas development in Colorado. We have coupled these emission stochastically with local meteorological data and population and time-activity data to estimate the potential for acute, subchronic, and chronic exposures above health-criteria levels due to air emissions near individual sites. These results, along with other pertinent health and exposure data, can be used to inform setback distances to protect public health.
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Price DJ, Day DA, Pagonis D, Stark H, Algrim LB, Handschy AV, Liu S, Krechmer JE, Miller SL, Hunter JF, de Gouw JA, Ziemann PJ, Jimenez JL. Budgets of Organic Carbon Composition and Oxidation in Indoor Air. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2019; 53:13053-13063. [PMID: 31652057 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b04689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The chemical composition of indoor air at the University of Colorado, Boulder art museum was measured by a suite of gas- and particle-phase instruments. Over 80% of the total observed organic carbon (TOOC) mass (100 μg m-3) consisted of reduced compounds (carbon oxidation state, OSC < -0.5) with high volatility (log10 C* > 7) and low carbon number (nC < 6). The museum TOOC was compared to other indoor and outdoor locations, which increased according to the following trend: remote < rural ≤ urban < indoor ≤ megacity. The museum TOOC was comparable to a university classroom and 3× less than residential environments. Trends in the total reactive flux were remote < indoor < rural < urban < megacity. High volatile organic compound (VOC) concentrations compensated low oxidant concentrations indoors to result in an appreciable reactive flux. Total hydroxyl radical (OH), ozone (O3), nitrate radical (NO3), and chlorine atom (Cl) reactivities for each location followed a similar trend to TOOC. High human occupancy events increased all oxidant reactivities in the museum by 65-125%. The lifetimes of O3, NO3, OH, and Cl reactivities were 13 h, 15 h, 23 days, and 189 days, respectively, corresponding to over 88% of indoor VOC oxidant reactivity being consumed outdoors after ventilation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Harald Stark
- Aerodyne Research Inc. , Billerica , Massachusetts 01821 , United States
| | | | | | | | - Jordan E Krechmer
- Aerodyne Research Inc. , Billerica , Massachusetts 01821 , United States
| | | | - James F Hunter
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Department of Materials Science and Engineering , Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge , Massachusetts 02139 , United States
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McKenzie LM, Allshouse W, Daniels S. Congenital heart defects and intensity of oil and gas well site activities in early pregnancy. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 132:104949. [PMID: 31327466 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.104949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preliminary studies suggest that offspring to mothers living near oil and natural gas (O&G) well sites are at higher risk of congenital heart defects (CHDs). OBJECTIVES Our objective was to address the limitations of previous studies in a new and more robust evaluation of the relationship between maternal proximity to O&G well site activities and births with CHDs. METHODS We employed a nested case-control study of 3324 infants born in Colorado between 2005 and 2011. 187, 179, 132, and 38 singleton births with an aortic artery and valve (AAVD), pulmonary artery and valve (PAVD), conotruncal (CTD), or tricuspid valve (TVD) defect, respectively, were frequency matched 1:5 to controls on sex, maternal smoking, and race and ethnicity yielding 2860 controls. We estimated monthly intensities of O&G activity at maternal residences from three months prior to conception through the second gestational month with our intensity adjusted inverse distance weighted model. We used logistic regression models adjusted for O&G facilities other than wells, intensity of air pollution sources not associated with O&G activities, maternal age and socioeconomic status index, and infant sex and parity, to evaluate associations between CHDs and O&G activity intensity groups (low, medium, and high). RESULTS Overall, CHDs were 1.4 (1.0, 2.0) and 1.7 (1.1, 2.6) times more likely than controls in the medium and high intensity groups, respectively, compared to the low intensity group. PAVDs were 1.7 (0.93, 3.0) and 2.5 (1.1, 5.3) times more likely in the medium and high intensity groups for mothers with an address found in the second gestational month. In rural areas, AAVDs, CTDs, and TVDs were 1.8 (0.97, 3.3) and 2.6 (1.1, 6.1); 2.1 (0.96, 4.5) and 4.0 (1.4, 12); and 3.4 (0.95, 12) and 4.6 (0.81, 26) times more likely than controls in the medium and high intensity groups. CONCLUSIONS This study provides further evidence of a positive association between maternal proximity to O&G well site activities and several types of CHDs, particularly in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M McKenzie
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - William Allshouse
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Stephen Daniels
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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Garcia-Gonzales DA, Popoola O, Bright VB, Paulson SE, Wang Y, Jones RL, Jerrett M. Associations among particulate matter, hazardous air pollutants and methane emissions from the Aliso Canyon natural gas storage facility during the 2015 blowout. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 132:104855. [PMID: 31255256 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.05.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
In October of 2015, a large underground storage well at the Aliso Canyon natural gas storage facility experienced a massive methane leak (also referred to as "natural gas blowout"), which resulted in the largest ever anthropogenic release of methane from a single point source in the United States. Additional sampling conducted during the event revealed unique gas and particle concentrations in ambient air and a characteristic "fingerprint" of metals in the indoor dust samples similar to samples taken at the blowout site. We further investigated the association between the Aliso Canyon natural gas storage site and several measured air pollutants by: (a) conducting additional emission source studies using meteorological data and correlations between particulate matter, methane, and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) collected during the natural gas blowout at distances ranging from 1.2 to 7.3 km due south of well SS25, (b) identifying the unique i/n-pentane ratio signature associated with emissions from the blowout event, and (c) identifying characteristics unique to the homes that tested positive for air pollutants using data collected from extensive indoor environmental assessment surveys. Results of air quality samples collected near Aliso Canyon during the final weeks of the event revealed that elevated levels of several HAP compounds were likely influenced by the active natural gas blowout. Furthermore, the final attempts to plug the well during the days preceding the well kill were associated with particle emissions likely from the well site. Together, this investigation suggests uncontrolled leaks or blowout events at natural gas storage facilities have the potential to release harmful pollutants with adverse health and environmental consequences into proximate communities. With this evidence, our recommendations include facility-specific meteorological and air quality data-collection equipment installed at natural gas storage facilities and support of environmental surveillance after severe off-normal operation events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane A Garcia-Gonzales
- Environmental Health Sciences Division, University of California at Berkeley, 50 University Hall, School of Public Health, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States of America.
| | - Olalekan Popoola
- University of Cambridge, Department of Chemistry, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom.
| | - Vivien B Bright
- University of Cambridge, Department of Chemistry, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom.
| | - Suzanne E Paulson
- Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, 405 Hilgard Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States of America.
| | - Yanwen Wang
- BIC-ESAT and SKL-ESPC, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, 5 Yiheyuan Road Haidian District, Beijing 100871, China; Department of Environmental Health Risk Assessment, National Institute of Environmental Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 7 Panjiayuan South Li, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100021, China.
| | - Roderic L Jones
- University of Cambridge, Department of Chemistry, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom.
| | - Michael Jerrett
- Environmental Health Sciences Division, University of California at Berkeley, 50 University Hall, School of Public Health, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States of America; Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, Fielding School of Public Health University of California, Los Angeles, 650 Charles E. Young Drive South, 56-070 CHS, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States of America; Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health University of California, Los Angeles, 650 Charles E. Young Drive South, 56-070B CHS, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States of America.
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Day M, Pouliot G, Hunt S, Baker KR, Beardsley M, Frost G, Mobley D, Simon H, Henderson BB, Yelverton T, Rao V. Reflecting on progress since the 2005 NARSTO emissions inventory report. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2019; 69:1023-1048. [PMID: 31184543 PMCID: PMC6784547 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2019.1629363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Emission inventories are the foundation for cost-effective air quality management activities. In 2005, a report by the public/private partnership North American Research Strategy for Tropospheric Ozone (NARSTO) evaluated the strengths and weaknesses of North American emissions inventories and made recommendations for improving their effectiveness. This paper reviews the recommendation areas and briefly discusses what has been addressed, what remains unchanged, and new questions that have arisen. The findings reveal that all emissions inventory improvement areas identified by the 2005 NARSTO publication have been explored and implemented to some degree. The U.S. National Emissions Inventory has become more detailed and has incorporated new research into previously under-characterized sources such as fine particles and biomass burning. Additionally, it is now easier to access the emissions inventory and the documentation of the inventory via the internet. However, many emissions-related research needs exist, on topics such as emission estimation methods, speciation, scalable emission factor development, incorporation of new emission measurement techniques, estimation of uncertainty, top-down verification, and analysis of uncharacterized sources. A common theme throughout this retrospective summary is the need for increased coordination among stakeholders. Researchers and inventory developers must work together to ensure that planned emissions research and new findings can be used to update the emissions inventory. To continue to address emissions inventory challenges, industry, the scientific community, and government agencies need to continue to leverage resources and collaborate as often as possible. As evidenced by the progress noted, continued investment in and coordination of emissions inventory activities will provide dividends to air quality management programs across the country, continent, and world. Implications: In 2005, a report by the public/private partnership North American Research Strategy for Tropospheric Ozone (NARSTO) evaluated the strengths and weaknesses of North American air pollution emissions inventories. This paper reviews the eight recommendation areas and briefly discusses what has been addressed, what remains unchanged, and new questions that have arisen. Although progress has been made, many opportunities exist for the scientific agencies, industry, and government agencies to leverage resources and collaborate to continue improving emissions inventories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Day
- 2015-2017 AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellow, Environmental Protection Agency , Washington , DC , USA
| | - George Pouliot
- Office of Research and Development, Environmental Protection Agency , Research Triangle Park , NC , USA
| | - Sherri Hunt
- Office of Research and Development, Environmental Protection Agency , Research Triangle Park , NC , USA
| | - Kirk R Baker
- Office of Air and Radiation, Environmental Protection Agency , Research Triangle Park , NC , USA
| | - Megan Beardsley
- Office of Transportation and Air Quality, Environmental Protection Agency , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
| | - Gregory Frost
- Earth System Research Laboratory, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration , Boulder , CO , USA
| | - David Mobley
- Office of Research and Development, Environmental Protection Agency , Research Triangle Park , NC , USA
- Office of Air and Radiation, Environmental Protection Agency , Research Triangle Park , NC , USA
| | - Heather Simon
- Office of Air and Radiation, Environmental Protection Agency , Research Triangle Park , NC , USA
| | - Barron B Henderson
- Office of Air and Radiation, Environmental Protection Agency , Research Triangle Park , NC , USA
| | - Tiffany Yelverton
- Office of Research and Development, Environmental Protection Agency , Research Triangle Park , NC , USA
| | - Venkatesh Rao
- Office of Air and Radiation, Environmental Protection Agency , Research Triangle Park , NC , USA
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Caron-Beaudoin É, Bouchard M, Wendling G, Barroso A, Bouchard MF, Ayotte P, Frohlich KL, Verner MA. Urinary and hair concentrations of trace metals in pregnant women from Northeastern British Columbia, Canada: a pilot study. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2019; 29:613-623. [PMID: 31089244 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-019-0144-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Northeastern British Columbia (Canada) is an area of intense natural gas exploitation by hydraulic fracturing. Hydraulic fracturing can release contaminants, including trace metals, many of which are known developmental toxicants. To date, there is limited data on human exposure to contaminants in this region. OBJECTIVE We aimed to examine trace metals in urine and hair samples from 29 Indigenous and non-Indigenous pregnant women from two communities (Chetwynd and Dawson Creek) in Northeastern British Columbia. METHODS We recruited 29 pregnant women who provided spot urine samples over five consecutive days and one hair sample. We measured 19 trace metals in pooled urine samples from each participant and in the first 2 cm of hair closest to the scalp. We compared urinary and hair concentrations to those measured in women from the general population using data from the Canadian Health Measure Survey (CHMS), or reference values found in the literature for trace metals not measured in the CHMS. RESULTS Median urinary (0.49 μg/L) and hair (0.16 μg/g) concentrations of manganese were higher in our participants than in the CHMS (<0.05 µg/L in urine) or reference population (0.067 μg/g in hair). In hair, median values for barium (4.48 μg/g), aluminum (4.37 μg/g) and strontium (4.47 μg/g) were respectively 16, 3, and 6 times higher compared with median values in a reference population. Concentrations of barium and strontium in hair were higher in self-identified Indigenous participants (5.9 and 5.46 μg/g, respectively) compared to non-Indigenous participants (3.88 and 2.60 μg/g) (p-values = 0.02 and 0.03). CONCLUSION Our results suggest higher gestational exposure to certain trace metals in our study population compared to reference populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Élyse Caron-Beaudoin
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Université de Montréal, 2375 chemin de la Cote-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1A8, Canada.
- Université de Montréal Public Health Research Institute (IRSPUM), Université de Montréal, 7101, Parc Ave., Montreal, QC, H3N 1X7, Canada.
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Well-Being, Health, Society and Environment (CINBIOSE), Université du Québec à Montréal, C.P. 8888, Succursale Centre-ville, Montreal, QC, H3C 3P8, Canada.
| | - Michèle Bouchard
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Université de Montréal, 2375 chemin de la Cote-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1A8, Canada
- Université de Montréal Public Health Research Institute (IRSPUM), Université de Montréal, 7101, Parc Ave., Montreal, QC, H3N 1X7, Canada
- Chaire d'analyse et de gestion des risques toxicologiques, Université de Montréal, 2900 Edouard Montpetit, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Gilles Wendling
- GW Solutions, Inc. 201-5180 Dublin Way, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 0H2, Canada
| | - Antonio Barroso
- GW Solutions, Inc. 201-5180 Dublin Way, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 0H2, Canada
| | - Maryse F Bouchard
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Université de Montréal, 2375 chemin de la Cote-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1A8, Canada
- Sainte-Justine Hospital Research Centre, 3175 Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, QC, H3S 2G4, Canada
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Centre de toxicologie du Québec, Institut National de la Santé Publique du Québec, 945 avenue Wolfe, Québec, QC, G1V 5B3, Canada
- Axe Santé des Populations et Pratiques Optimales en Santé, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, 1050 Chemin Ste-Foy, Québec, QC, G1S 4L8, Canada
| | - Katherine L Frohlich
- Université de Montréal Public Health Research Institute (IRSPUM), Université de Montréal, 7101, Parc Ave., Montreal, QC, H3N 1X7, Canada
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, École de Santé Publique (ESPUM), Université de Montréal, 7101 Av du Parc, Montréal, QC, H3N 1X9, Canada
| | - Marc-André Verner
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Université de Montréal, 2375 chemin de la Cote-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1A8, Canada
- Université de Montréal Public Health Research Institute (IRSPUM), Université de Montréal, 7101, Parc Ave., Montreal, QC, H3N 1X7, Canada
- Chaire d'analyse et de gestion des risques toxicologiques, Université de Montréal, 2900 Edouard Montpetit, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
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Bernath PF, Bittner DM, Sibert Iii EL. Isobutane Infrared Bands: Partial Rotational Assignments, ab Initio Calculations, and Local Mode Analysis. J Phys Chem A 2019; 123:6185-6193. [PMID: 31251627 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpca.9b03321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
High-resolution infrared spectra of the symmetric top isobutane CH(CH3)3 were assigned with the help of ab initio calculations. The strong parallel band ν5(a1) with an origin at 1396.54741(76) cm-1 and the ν4(a1) mode, the CH2 scissors, at 1478.20363(41) cm-1 were rotationally analyzed. The bands in the C-H stretching region were assigned with the help of an anharmonic calculation and a local mode analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter F Bernath
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , Old Dominion University , Norfolk , Virginia 23529 , United States
| | - Dror M Bittner
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , Old Dominion University , Norfolk , Virginia 23529 , United States
| | - Edwin L Sibert Iii
- Department of Chemistry , University of Wisconsin-Madison , Madison , Wisconsin 53706 , United States
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Haynes EN, Hilbert TJ, Roberts R, Quirolgico J, Shepler R, Beckner G, Veevers J, Burkle J, Jandarov R. Public Participation in Air Sampling and Water Quality Test Kit Development to Enable Citizen Science. Prog Community Health Partnersh 2019; 13:141-151. [PMID: 31178449 DOI: 10.1353/cpr.2019.0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Public participation in environmental data collection is a rapidly growing approach providing opportunity for hands-on public engagement in environmental field studies. This methodology is important when addressing community-identified exposure concerns. OBJECTIVES Our goal was to establish an academic-community partnership between University of Cincinnati (UC) researchers and local officials and residents of Guernsey County, Ohio, to address their interest in assessing environmental quality near proposed and operating natural gas extraction (NGE) waste sites. METHODS A pilot research study was developed using community-based participatory research principles. A community resident was trained to collect air samples. Air was sampled at 10 locations for 63 volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Water quality test kits were developed in partnership with local middle and high school teachers. RESULTS Community partners were involved throughout the project. VOCs were detected at all locations. Nineteen unique VOCs were detected; one was above the recommended exposure level. Findings were reported back to local officials and community members. Water quality test kits were developed and then piloted in middle school and high school classrooms. CONCLUSIONS Academic-community partnerships were instrumental in the identification of sampling locations, obtaining the participation of landowners, and conducting sampling. Measuring the impact of NGE activities on air quality is challenging owing to competing exposures, limited resources, and access to sites. Water quality test kits were found by Guernsey County teachers to be useful tools in the classroom.
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Garcia-Gonzales DA, Shonkoff SB, Hays J, Jerrett M. Hazardous Air Pollutants Associated with Upstream Oil and Natural Gas Development: A Critical Synthesis of Current Peer-Reviewed Literature. Annu Rev Public Health 2019; 40:283-304. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-publhealth-040218-043715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Increased energy demands and innovations in upstream oil and natural gas (ONG) extraction technologies have enabled the United States to become one of the world's leading producers of petroleum and natural gas hydrocarbons. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists 187 hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) that are known or suspected to cause cancer or other serious health effects. Several of these HAPs have been measured at elevated concentrations around ONG sites, but most have not been studied in the context of upstream development. In this review, we analyzed recent global peer-reviewed articles that investigated HAPs near ONG operations to ( a) identify HAPs associated with upstream ONG development, ( b) identify their specific sources in upstream processes, and ( c) examine the potential for adverse health outcomes from HAPs emitted during these phases of hydrocarbon development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane A. Garcia-Gonzales
- Environmental Health Sciences Division, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
| | - Seth B.C. Shonkoff
- PSE Healthy Energy, Oakland, California 94612, USA;,
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
- Environment Energy Technology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Jake Hays
- PSE Healthy Energy, Oakland, California 94612, USA;,
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Michael Jerrett
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095-1772, USA
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Zhang Y, Sun J, Zheng P, Chen T, Liu Y, Han G, Simpson IJ, Wang X, Blake DR, Li Z, Yang X, Qi Y, Wang Q, Wang W, Xue L. Observations of C 1-C 5 alkyl nitrates in the Yellow River Delta, northern China: Effects of biomass burning and oil field emissions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 656:129-139. [PMID: 30504015 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.11.208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Alkyl nitrates (RONO2) are important reservoirs of nitrogen oxides and play key roles in the tropospheric chemistry. Two phases of intensive campaigns were conducted during February-April and June-July of 2017 at a rural coastal site and in open oil fields of the Yellow River Delta region, northern China. C1-C5 alkyl nitrates showed higher concentration levels in summer than in winter-spring (p < 0.01), whilst their parent hydrocarbons showed an opposite seasonal variation pattern. The C3-C5 RONO2 levels in the oil fields were significantly higher than those in the ambient rural air. Alkyl nitrates showed well-defined diurnal variations, elucidating the effects of in-situ photochemical production and regional transport of aged polluted plumes. Backward trajectory analysis and fire maps revealed the significant contribution of biomass burning to the observed alkyl nitrates and hydrocarbons. A simplified sequential reaction model and an observation-based chemical box model were deployed to diagnose the formation mechanisms of C1-C5 RONO2. The C3-C5 RONO2 were mainly produced from the photochemical oxidation of their parent hydrocarbons (i.e., C3-C5 alkanes), whilst C1-C2 RONO2 compounds have additional sources. In addition to parent hydrocarbons, longer alkanes with >4 carbon atoms were also important precursors of alkyl nitrates in the oil fields. This study demonstrates the significant effects of oil field emissions and biomass burning on the volatile organic compounds and alkyl nitrate formation, and provides scientific support for the formulation of control strategies against photochemical air pollution in the Yellow River Delta region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingnan Zhang
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
| | - Jingjing Sun
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
| | - Penggang Zheng
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
| | - Tianshu Chen
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuhong Liu
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
| | - Guangxuan Han
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Process and Ecology Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Isobel J Simpson
- Department of Chemistry, University of California at Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Xinfeng Wang
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
| | - Donald R Blake
- Department of Chemistry, University of California at Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Zeyuan Li
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
| | - Xue Yang
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
| | - Yanbin Qi
- Jilin Weather Modification Office, Changchun, Jilin, China; Joint Laboratory of Weather Modification for Chinese Meteorological Administration and People's Government of Jilin Province (Key Laboratory of Jilin Province), Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Jilin Weather Modification Office, Changchun, Jilin, China; Joint Laboratory of Weather Modification for Chinese Meteorological Administration and People's Government of Jilin Province (Key Laboratory of Jilin Province), Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Wenxing Wang
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
| | - Likun Xue
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China; Ji'nan Institute of Environmental Science, Ji'nan, Shandong, China.
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Tzompa-Sosa ZA, Henderson BH, Keller CA, Travis K, Mahieu E, Franco B, Estes M, Helmig D, Fried A, Richter D, Weibring P, Walega J, Blake DR, Hannigan JW, Ortega I, Conway S, Strong K, Fischer EV. Atmospheric implications of large C 2-C 5 alkane emissions from the U.S. oil and gas industry. JOURNAL OF GEOPHYSICAL RESEARCH. ATMOSPHERES : JGR 2019; 124:1148-1169. [PMID: 32832312 PMCID: PMC7433792 DOI: 10.1029/2018jd028955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Emissions of C2-C5 alkanes from the U.S. oil and gas sector have changed rapidly over the last decade. We use a nested GEOS-Chem simulation driven by updated 2011NEI emissions with aircraft, surface and column observations to 1) examine spatial patterns in the emissions and observed atmospheric abundances of C2-C5 alkanes over the U.S., and 2) estimate the contribution of emissions from the U.S. oil and gas industry to these patterns. The oil and gas sector in the updated 2011NEI contributes over 80% of the total U.S. emissions of ethane (C2H6) and propane (C3H8), and emissions of these species are largest in the central U.S. Observed mixing ratios of C2-C5 alkanes show enhancements over the central U.S. below 2 km. A nested GEOS-Chem simulation underpredicts observed C3H8 mixing ratios in the boundary layer over several U.S. regions and the relative underprediction is not consistent, suggesting C3H8 emissions should receive more attention moving forward. Our decision to consider only C4-C5 alkane emissions as a single lumped species produces a geographic distribution similar to observations. Due to the increasing importance of oil and gas emissions in the U.S., we recommend continued support of existing long-term measurements of C2-C5 alkanes. We suggest additional monitoring of C2-C5 alkanes downwind of northeastern Colorado, Wyoming and western North Dakota to capture changes in these regions. The atmospheric chemistry modeling community should also evaluate whether chemical mechanisms that lump larger alkanes are sufficient to understand air quality issues in regions with large emissions of these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z A Tzompa-Sosa
- Department of Atmospheric Science, Colorado State University, Colorado, USA
| | - B H Henderson
- Air Quality Modeling Group, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, US Environmental Protection Agency, USA
| | - C A Keller
- Universities Space Research Association / GESTAR, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Maryland, USA
- Global Modeling and Assimilation Office, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland, USA
| | - K Travis
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - E Mahieu
- Institut d'Astrophysique et de Géophysique, Université de Liège, Quartier Agora, Liège, Belgium
| | - B Franco
- Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Atmospheric Spectroscopy, Service de Chimie Quantique et Photophysique, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M Estes
- Air Modeling and Data Analysis Section, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Texas, USA
| | - D Helmig
- Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research, University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - A Fried
- Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research, University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - D Richter
- Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research, University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - P Weibring
- Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research, University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - J Walega
- Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research, University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - D R Blake
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - J W Hannigan
- National Center for Atmospheric Research, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - I Ortega
- National Center for Atmospheric Research, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - S Conway
- Department of Physics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - K Strong
- Department of Physics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - E V Fischer
- Department of Atmospheric Science, Colorado State University, Colorado, USA
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Gorchov Negron AM, McDonald BC, McKeen SA, Peischl J, Ahmadov R, de Gouw JA, Frost GJ, Hastings MG, Pollack IB, Ryerson TB, Thompson C, Warneke C, Trainer M. Development of a Fuel-Based Oil and Gas Inventory of Nitrogen Oxides Emissions. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2018; 52:10175-10185. [PMID: 30071716 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b02245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we develop an alternative Fuel-based Oil and Gas inventory (FOG) of nitrogen oxides (NO x) from oil and gas production using publicly available fuel use records and emission factors reported in the literature. FOG is compared with the Environmental Protection Agency's 2014 National Emissions Inventory (NEI) and with new top-down estimates of NO x emissions derived from aircraft and ground-based field measurement campaigns. Compared to our top-down estimates derived in four oil and gas basins (Uinta, UT, Haynesville, TX/LA, Marcellus, PA, and Fayetteville, AR), the NEI overestimates NO x by over a factor of 2 in three out of four basins, while FOG is generally consistent with atmospheric observations. Challenges in estimating oil and gas engine activity, rather than uncertainties in NO x emission factors, may explain gaps between the NEI and top-down emission estimates. Lastly, we find a consistent relationship between reactive odd nitrogen species (NO y) and ambient methane (CH4) across basins with different geological characteristics and in different stages of production. Future work could leverage this relationship as an additional constraint on CH4 emissions from oil and gas basins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan M Gorchov Negron
- Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences , Brown University , Providence , Rhode Island 02912 , United States
| | - Brian C McDonald
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences , University of Colorado , Boulder , Colorado 80309 , United States
- Chemical Sciences Division , NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory , Boulder , Colorado 80305 , United States
| | - Stuart A McKeen
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences , University of Colorado , Boulder , Colorado 80309 , United States
- Chemical Sciences Division , NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory , Boulder , Colorado 80305 , United States
| | - Jeff Peischl
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences , University of Colorado , Boulder , Colorado 80309 , United States
- Chemical Sciences Division , NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory , Boulder , Colorado 80305 , United States
| | - Ravan Ahmadov
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences , University of Colorado , Boulder , Colorado 80309 , United States
- Global Systems Division , NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory , Boulder , Colorado 80305 , United States
| | - Joost A de Gouw
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences , University of Colorado , Boulder , Colorado 80309 , United States
- Chemical Sciences Division , NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory , Boulder , Colorado 80305 , United States
| | - Gregory J Frost
- Chemical Sciences Division , NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory , Boulder , Colorado 80305 , United States
| | - Meredith G Hastings
- Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences , Brown University , Providence , Rhode Island 02912 , United States
| | - Ilana B Pollack
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences , University of Colorado , Boulder , Colorado 80309 , United States
- Chemical Sciences Division , NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory , Boulder , Colorado 80305 , United States
| | - Thomas B Ryerson
- Chemical Sciences Division , NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory , Boulder , Colorado 80305 , United States
| | - Chelsea Thompson
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences , University of Colorado , Boulder , Colorado 80309 , United States
- Chemical Sciences Division , NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory , Boulder , Colorado 80305 , United States
| | - Carsten Warneke
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences , University of Colorado , Boulder , Colorado 80309 , United States
- Chemical Sciences Division , NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory , Boulder , Colorado 80305 , United States
| | - Michael Trainer
- Chemical Sciences Division , NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory , Boulder , Colorado 80305 , United States
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McMullin TS, Bamber AM, Bon D, Vigil DI, Van Dyke M. Exposures and Health Risks from Volatile Organic Compounds in Communities Located near Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Activities in Colorado (U.S.A.). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15071500. [PMID: 30012994 PMCID: PMC6069077 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15071500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The study objective was to use a preliminary risk based framework to evaluate the sufficiency of existing air data to answer an important public health question in Colorado: Do volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted into the air from oil and gas (OG) operations result in exposures to Coloradoans living at or greater than current state setback distances (500 feet) from OG operations at levels that may be harmful to their health? We identified 56 VOCs emitted from OG operations in Colorado and compiled 47 existing air monitoring datasets that measured these VOCs in 34 locations across OG regions. From these data, we estimated acute and chronic exposures and compared these exposures to health guideline levels using maximum and mean air concentrations. Acute and chronic non-cancer hazard quotients were below one for all individual VOCs. Hazard indices combining exposures for all VOCs were slightly above one. Lifetime excess cancer risk estimates for benzene were between 1.0 × 10−5–3.6 × 10−5 and ethylbenzene was 7.3 × 10−6. This evaluation identified a small sub-set of VOCs, including benzene and n-nonane, which should be prioritized for additional exposure characterization in site-specific studies that collect comprehensive time-series measurements of community scale exposures to better assess community exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tami S McMullin
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 4300 Cherry Creek Drive S, Denver, CO 80246, USA.
| | - Alison M Bamber
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 4300 Cherry Creek Drive S, Denver, CO 80246, USA.
| | - Daniel Bon
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 4300 Cherry Creek Drive S, Denver, CO 80246, USA.
| | - Daniel I Vigil
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 4300 Cherry Creek Drive S, Denver, CO 80246, USA.
| | - Michael Van Dyke
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 4300 Cherry Creek Drive S, Denver, CO 80246, USA.
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65
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Akachukwu D, Gbadegesin MA, Ojimelukwe PC, Atkinson CJ. Biochar Remediation Improves the Leaf Mineral Composition of Telfairia occidentalis Grown on Gas Flared Soil. PLANTS 2018; 7:plants7030057. [PMID: 30011801 PMCID: PMC6161101 DOI: 10.3390/plants7030057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 06/24/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluates the effects of remediation of gas flared soil by biochar on the nutritional composition of cultivated Telfairia occidentalis leaves, relative to non-gas flared soil. Gas flared soils are degraded due to the presence of heavy metals, noxious gases, carbon soot and acidic rain. Biochar produced from oil palm fibre was applied at five different amounts: 0 t ha−1, 7.1 t ha−1, 13.9 t ha−1, 20.9 t ha−1 and 28.0 t ha−1 to containerized soils (both gas flared and control soil), inside a greenhouse, which were allowed to mineralize for two weeks. Two viable seeds of T. occidentalis per replicate were sown. After eight weeks of growth, leaves were harvested, dried and chemically analyzed. Application of biochar significantly increased leaf ash and crude fibre content of Telfairia occidentalis. Plants from soil treated with 13.9 t ha−1 of biochar had the highest concentrations of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C and E irrespective of soil type. Maximum increase in leaf vitamin and mineral content was obtained from leaves cultivated on gas flared soil treated with 13.9 t ha−1 and 7.1 t ha−1 of biochar respectively. The results show that biochar treatment can increase leaf mineral concentrations and that this effect is dependent on the amount of biochar application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Akachukwu
- Department of Biochemistry, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Umuahia P.M.B 7267, Abia State, Nigeria.
| | - Michael Adedapo Gbadegesin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 90001, Oyo State, Nigeria.
| | - Philippa Chinyere Ojimelukwe
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Umuahia P.M.B 7267, Abia State, Nigeria.
| | - Christopher John Atkinson
- Department of Agriculture, Health and Environment, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Chatham ME4 4TB, UK.
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66
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Zhang N, Huang H, Duan X, Zhao J, Su B. Quantitative association analysis between PM 2.5 concentration and factors on industry, energy, agriculture, and transportation. Sci Rep 2018; 8:9461. [PMID: 29930284 PMCID: PMC6013430 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-27771-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid urbanization is causing serious PM2.5 (particulate matter ≤2.5 μm) pollution in China. However, the impacts of human activities (including industrial production, energy production, agriculture, and transportation) on PM2.5 concentrations have not been thoroughly studied. In this study, we obtained a regression formula for PM2.5 concentration based on more than 1 million PM2.5 recorded values and data from meteorology, industrial production, energy production, agriculture, and transportation for 31 provinces of mainland China between January 2013 and May 2017. We used stepwise regression to process 49 factors that influence PM2.5 concentration, and obtained the 10 primary influencing factors. Data of PM2.5 concentration and 10 factors from June to December, 2017 was used to verify the robustness of the model. Excluding meteorological factors, production of natural gas, industrial boilers, and ore production have the highest association with PM2.5 concentration, while nuclear power generation is the most positive factor in decreasing PM2.5 concentration. Tianjin, Beijing, and Hebei provinces are the most vulnerable to high PM2.5 concentrations caused by industrial production, energy production, agriculture, and transportation (IEAT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hong Huang
- Institute of Public Safety Research, Department of Engineering Physics, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoli Duan
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Jinlong Zhao
- Institute of Public Safety Research, Department of Engineering Physics, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Boni Su
- Electric Power Planning & Engineering Institute, Beijing, China.
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67
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McKenzie LM, Blair B, Hughes J, Allshouse WB, Blake NJ, Helmig D, Milmoe P, Halliday H, Blake DR, Adgate JL. Ambient Nonmethane Hydrocarbon Levels Along Colorado's Northern Front Range: Acute and Chronic Health Risks. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2018; 52:4514-4525. [PMID: 29584423 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b05983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Oil and gas (O&G) facilities emit air pollutants that are potentially a major health risk for nearby populations. We characterized prenatal through adult health risks for acute (1 h) and chronic (30 year) residential inhalation exposure scenarios to nonmethane hydrocarbons (NMHCs) for these populations. We used ambient air sample results to estimate and compare risks for four residential scenarios. We found that air pollutant concentrations increased with proximity to an O&G facility, as did health risks. Acute hazard indices for neurological (18), hematological (15), and developmental (15) health effects indicate that populations living within 152 m of an O&G facility could experience these health effects from inhalation exposures to benzene and alkanes. Lifetime excess cancer risks exceeded 1 in a million for all scenarios. The cancer risk estimate of 8.3 per 10 000 for populations living within 152 m of an O&G facility exceeded the United States Environmental Protection Agency's 1 in 10 000 upper threshold. These findings indicate that state and federal regulatory policies may not be protective of health for populations residing near O&G facilities. Health risk assessment results can be used for informing policies and studies aimed at reducing and understanding health effects associated with air pollutants emitted from O&G facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M McKenzie
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health , Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus , Aurora , Colorado 80045 , United States
| | - Benjamin Blair
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health , Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus , Aurora , Colorado 80045 , United States
| | - John Hughes
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health , University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus , Aurora , Colorado 80045 , United States
| | - William B Allshouse
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health , Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus , Aurora , Colorado 80045 , United States
| | - Nicola J Blake
- Department of Chemistry , University of California , Irvine , California 92617 , United States
| | - Detlev Helmig
- Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR) , University of Colorado Boulder , Boulder , Colorado 80309 , United States
| | - Pam Milmoe
- Boulder County Public Health , 1333 Iris Avenue , Boulder , Colorado 80304 , United States
| | | | - Donald R Blake
- Department of Chemistry , University of California , Irvine , California 92617 , United States
| | - John L Adgate
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health , Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus , Aurora , Colorado 80045 , United States
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68
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Bari MA, Kindzierski WB. Ambient volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in communities of the Athabasca oil sands region: Sources and screening health risk assessment. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 235:602-614. [PMID: 29331893 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.12.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 11/26/2017] [Accepted: 12/17/2017] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
An investigation of ambient levels and sources of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and associated public health risks was carried out at two northern Alberta oil sands communities (Fort McKay and Fort McMurray located < 25 km and >30 km from oil sands development, respectively) for the period January 2010-March 2015. Levels of total detected VOCs were comparatively similar at both communities (Fort McKay: geometric mean = 22.8 μg/m3, interquartile range, IQR = 13.8-41 μg/m3); (Fort McMurray: geometric mean = 23.3 μg/m3, IQR = 12.0-41 μg/m3). In general, methanol (24%-50%), alkanes (26%-32%) and acetaldehyde (23%-30%) were the predominant VOCs followed by acetone (20%-24%) and aromatics (∼9%). Mean and maximum ambient concentrations of selected hazardous VOCs were compared to health risk screening criteria used by United States regulatory agencies. The Positive matrix factorization (PMF) model was used to identify and apportion VOC sources at Fort McKay and Fort McMurray. Five sources were identified at Fort McKay, where four sources (oil sands fugitives, liquid/unburned fuel, ethylbenzene/xylene-rich and petroleum processing) were oil sands related emissions and contributed to 70% of total VOCs. At Fort McMurray six sources were identified, where local sources other than oil sands development were also observed. Contribution of aged air mass/regional transport including biomass burning emissions was ∼30% of total VOCs at both communities. Source-specific carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk values were also calculated and were below acceptable and safe levels of risk, except for aged air mass/regional transport (at both communities), and ethylbenzene/xylene-rich (only at Fort McMurray).
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Aynul Bari
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 3-57 South Academic Building, 11405-87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9 Canada.
| | - Warren B Kindzierski
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 3-57 South Academic Building, 11405-87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9 Canada
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69
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Sarkar S, Fan WH, Jia S, Blake DR, Reid JS, Lestari P, Yu LE. A quantitative assessment of distributions and sources of tropospheric halocarbons measured in Singapore. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 619-620:528-544. [PMID: 29156272 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.11.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Revised: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/08/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This work reports the first ground-based atmospheric measurements of 26 halocarbons in Singapore, an urban-industrial city-state in Southeast (SE) Asia. A total of 166 whole air canister samples collected during two intensive 7 Southeast Asian Studies (7SEAS) campaigns (August-October 2011 and 2012) were analyzed for C1-C2 halocarbons using gas chromatography-electron capture/mass spectrometric detection. The halocarbon dataset was supplemented with measurements of selected non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs), C1-C5 alkyl nitrates, sulfur gases and carbon monoxide to better understand sources and atmospheric processes. The median observed atmospheric mixing ratios of CFCs, halons, CCl4 and CH3CCl3 were close to global tropospheric background levels, with enhancements in the 1-17% range. This provided the first measurement evidence from SE Asia of the effectiveness of Montreal Protocol and related national-scale regulations instituted in the 1990s to phase-out ozone depleting substances (ODS). First- and second-generation CFC replacements (HCFCs and HFCs) dominated the atmospheric halocarbon burden with HFC-134a, HCFC-22 and HCFC-141b exhibiting enhancements of 39-67%. By combining near-source measurements in Indonesia with receptor data in Singapore, regionally transported peat-forest burning smoke was found to impact levels of several NMHCs (ethane, ethyne, benzene, and propane) and short-lived halocarbons (CH3I, CH3Cl, and CH3Br) in a subset of the receptor samples. The strong signatures of these species near peat-forest fires were potentially affected by atmospheric dilution/mixing during transport and by mixing with substantial urban/regional backgrounds at the receptor. Quantitative source apportionment was carried out using positive matrix factorization (PMF), which identified industrial emissions related to refrigeration, foam blowing, and solvent use in chemical, pharmaceutical and electronics industries as the major source of halocarbons (34%) in Singapore. This was followed by marine and terrestrial biogenic activity (28%), residual levels of ODS from pre-Montreal Protocol operations (16%), seasonal incidences of peat-forest smoke (13%), and fumigation related to quarantine and pre-shipment (QPS) applications (7%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayantan Sarkar
- NUS Environmental Research Institute, National University of Singapore, 5A Engineering Drive 1, Singapore 117411, Singapore.
| | - Wei Hong Fan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, 1 Engineering Drive 2, Singapore 117576, Singapore
| | - Shiguo Jia
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, 1 Engineering Drive 2, Singapore 117576, Singapore
| | - Donald R Blake
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, 1102 Natural Sciences 2, Irvine, CA 92697-2025, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Reid
- Naval Research Laboratory, Marine Meteorology Division, 7 Grace Hopper Avenue Stop 2, Monterey, CA 93943-5502, USA
| | - Puji Lestari
- Environmental Engineering Department, Institut Teknologi Bandung, JL. Ganesha No. 10, Bandung 40132, Indonesia
| | - Liya E Yu
- NUS Environmental Research Institute, National University of Singapore, 5A Engineering Drive 1, Singapore 117411, Singapore; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, 1 Engineering Drive 2, Singapore 117576, Singapore
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70
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Bolden AL, Schultz K, Pelch KE, Kwiatkowski CF. Exploring the endocrine activity of air pollutants associated with unconventional oil and gas extraction. Environ Health 2018; 17:26. [PMID: 29558955 PMCID: PMC5861625 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-018-0368-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the last decade unconventional oil and gas (UOG) extraction has rapidly proliferated throughout the United States (US) and the world. This occurred largely because of the development of directional drilling and hydraulic fracturing which allows access to fossil fuels from geologic formations that were previously not cost effective to pursue. This process is known to use greater than 1,000 chemicals such as solvents, surfactants, detergents, and biocides. In addition, a complex mixture of chemicals, including heavy metals, naturally-occurring radioactive chemicals, and organic compounds are released from the formations and can enter air and water. Compounds associated with UOG activity have been linked to adverse reproductive and developmental outcomes in humans and laboratory animal models, which is possibly due to the presence of endocrine active chemicals. METHODS Using systematic methods, electronic searches of PubMed and Web of Science were conducted to identify studies that measured chemicals in air near sites of UOG activity. Records were screened by title and abstract, relevant articles then underwent full text review, and data were extracted from the studies. A list of chemicals detected near UOG sites was generated. Then, the potential endocrine activity of the most frequently detected chemicals was explored via searches of literature from PubMed. RESULTS Evaluation of 48 studies that sampled air near sites of UOG activity identified 106 chemicals detected in two or more studies. Ethane, benzene and n-pentane were the top three most frequently detected. Twenty-one chemicals have been shown to have endocrine activity including estrogenic and androgenic activity and the ability to alter steroidogenesis. Literature also suggested that some of the air pollutants may affect reproduction, development, and neurophysiological function, all endpoints which can be modulated by hormones. These chemicals included aromatics (i.e., benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene), several polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and mercury. CONCLUSION These results provide a basis for prioritizing future primary studies regarding the endocrine disrupting properties of UOG air pollutants, including exposure research in wildlife and humans. Further, we recommend systematic reviews of the health impacts of exposure to specific chemicals, and comprehensive environmental sampling of a broader array of chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley L. Bolden
- The Endocrine Disruption Exchange (TEDX), www.TEDX.org, Eckert, Colorado USA
| | - Kim Schultz
- The Endocrine Disruption Exchange (TEDX), www.TEDX.org, Eckert, Colorado USA
| | - Katherine E. Pelch
- The Endocrine Disruption Exchange (TEDX), www.TEDX.org, Eckert, Colorado USA
| | - Carol F. Kwiatkowski
- The Endocrine Disruption Exchange (TEDX), www.TEDX.org, Eckert, Colorado USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado USA
- Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina USA
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Ghosh B. Impact of Changes in Oil and Gas Production Activities on Air Quality in Northeastern Oklahoma: Ambient Air Studies in 2015-2017. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2018; 52:3285-3294. [PMID: 29439573 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b05726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
A total of three ground-based ambient air studies were conducted in February through March of 2015, 2016, and 2017 at the Phillips 66 Research Center in northeastern Oklahoma. C2-C12 nonmethane hydrocarbons (NMHCs) were measured using whole-air sampling and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. In 2016 and 2017, online methane and ethane measurements were also conducted. Strong methane-ethane correlation identified oil and gas (O&G) upstream and midstream operations to be the primary methane source. C2-C5 alkanes were the dominant NMHCs whose average mixing ratio peaked in 2016 before dropping in 2017. This observation is attributed to regional O&G upstream operations, which peaked in 2015. Mean mixing ratios of C2-C5 alkanes ranged from 0.99 to 16.99 ppb. Measured ratios of i-C5/ n-C5 were 0.97 ± 0.03, 1.18 ± 0.04, and 1.06 ± 0.02 in 2015, 2016, and 2017, respectively, indicating that O&G upstream and midstream operations were their primary source. Photochemical age was estimated using observed ratio between hexane and propane. Emission ratios of NMHCs at zero photochemical age were calculated, which resembled the composition reported in the literature for natural gas field condensate tank flashing. Back-trajectory analysis showed that hydrocarbon-rich plumes came from the south and west directions, where O&G upstream and midstream operations are abundant. High OH reactivity values were calculated from C2-C6 alkanes mixing ratios, with the average reactivity for the 3 years being 1.55, 1.88, and 1.16 s-1. This indicates that VOC emissions from O & G operations may contribute to ozone production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buddhadeb Ghosh
- Phillips 66 Research Center , Highway 60 and 123, Bartlesville , Oklahoma 74003 , United States
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72
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Saunders PJ, McCoy D, Goldstein R, Saunders AT, Munroe A. A review of the public health impacts of unconventional natural gas development. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2018; 40:1-57. [PMID: 27921191 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-016-9898-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/13/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The public health impact of hydraulic fracturing remains a high profile and controversial issue. While there has been a recent surge of published papers, it remains an under-researched area despite being possibly the most substantive change in energy production since the advent of the fossil fuel economy. We review the evidence of effects in five public health domains with a particular focus on the UK: exposure, health, socio-economic, climate change and seismicity. While the latter would seem not to be of significance for the UK, we conclude that serious gaps in our understanding of the other potential impacts persist together with some concerning signals in the literature and legitimate uncertainties derived from first principles. There is a fundamental requirement for high-quality epidemiological research incorporating real exposure measures, improved understanding of methane leakage throughout the process, and a rigorous analysis of the UK social and economic impacts. In the absence of such intelligence, we consider it prudent to incentivise further research and delay any proposed developments in the UK. Recognising the political realities of the planning and permitting process, we make a series of recommendations to protect public health in the event of hydraulic fracturing being approved in the UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- P J Saunders
- University of Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, UK.
| | - D McCoy
- Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - R Goldstein
- West Midlands Public Health Training Scheme, Birmingham, UK
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73
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Caron-Beaudoin É, Valter N, Chevrier J, Ayotte P, Frohlich K, Verner MA. Gestational exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Northeastern British Columbia, Canada: A pilot study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 110:131-138. [PMID: 29122312 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Northeastern British Columbia (Canada) is an area of intense hydraulic fracturing for unconventional natural gas exploitation. There have been multiple reports of air and water contamination by volatile organic compounds in the vicinity of gas wells. Although these chemicals are known developmental toxicants, no biomonitoring effort has been carried out in the region. OBJECTIVE To evaluate gestational exposure to benzene and toluene in the Peace River Valley, Northeastern British Columbia (Canada). METHODS Urine samples were collected over five consecutive days from 29 pregnant women. Metabolites of benzene (s-phenylmercapturic acid (S-PMA) and trans, trans-muconic acid (t,t-MA)) and toluene (s-benzylmercapturic acid (S-BMA)) were measured in pooled urine samples from each participant. Levels of benzene metabolites were compared to those from the general Canadian population and from a biomonitoring study of residents from an area of active gas exploitation in Pavillion, Wyoming (USA). Levels measured in participants from the two recruitment sites, and self-identifying as Indigenous or non-Indigenous, were also compared. RESULTS Whereas the median S-PMA level (0.18μg/g creatinine) in our study was similar to that in the general Canadian population, the median t,t-MA level (180μg/g creatinine) was approximately 3.5 times higher. Five women had t,t-MA levels above the biological exposure index® proposed by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The median urinary S-BMA level in our pilot study was 7.00μg/g creatinine. Urinary metabolite levels were slightly higher in self-identifying Indigenous women, but this difference was only statistically significant for S-PMA. DISCUSSION Urinary t,t-MA levels, but not S-PMA levels, measured in our study are suggestive of a higher benzene exposure in participating pregnant women from the Peace River Valley than in the general Canadian population. Given the small sample size and limitations of t,t-MA measurements (e.g., non-specificity), more extensive monitoring is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Élyse Caron-Beaudoin
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, 2375 chemin de la Cote-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1A8, Canada; Université de Montréal Public Health Research Institute (IRSPUM), Université de Montréal, 7101, Parc Ave., Montreal, QC H3N 1X7, Canada; INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, 531 boulevard des Prairies, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada; Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Well-Being, Health, Society and Environment (CINBIOSE), Université du Québec à Montréal, C.P. 8888, Succursale Centre-ville, Montreal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada.
| | - Naomi Valter
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, 2375 chemin de la Cote-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1A8, Canada; Université de Montréal Public Health Research Institute (IRSPUM), Université de Montréal, 7101, Parc Ave., Montreal, QC H3N 1X7, Canada
| | - Jonathan Chevrier
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University Faculty of Medecine, 1020 Pine Avenue West, room 42, Montreal, QC H3A 1A2, Canada
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Centre de toxicologie du Québec, Institut National de la Santé Publique du Québec, 945 avenue Wolfe, Québec, QC G1V 5B3, Canada; Axe Santé des Populations et Pratiques Optimales en Santé, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, 1050 Chemin Ste-Foy, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada
| | - Katherine Frohlich
- Université de Montréal Public Health Research Institute (IRSPUM), Université de Montréal, 7101, Parc Ave., Montreal, QC H3N 1X7, Canada; Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, 7101 Av du Parc, Montréal, QC H3N 1X9, Canada
| | - Marc-André Verner
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, 2375 chemin de la Cote-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1A8, Canada; Université de Montréal Public Health Research Institute (IRSPUM), Université de Montréal, 7101, Parc Ave., Montreal, QC H3N 1X7, Canada
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Czolowski ED, Santoro RL, Srebotnjak T, Shonkoff SBC. Toward Consistent Methodology to Quantify Populations in Proximity to Oil and Gas Development: A National Spatial Analysis and Review. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2017; 125:086004. [PMID: 28858829 PMCID: PMC5783652 DOI: 10.1289/ehp1535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Higher risk of exposure to environmental health hazards near oil and gas wells has spurred interest in quantifying populations that live in proximity to oil and gas development. The available studies on this topic lack consistent methodology and ignore aspects of oil and gas development of value to public health-relevant assessment and decision-making. OBJECTIVES We aim to present a methodological framework for oil and gas development proximity studies grounded in an understanding of hydrocarbon geology and development techniques. METHODS We geospatially overlay locations of active oil and gas wells in the conterminous United States and Census data to estimate the population living in proximity to hydrocarbon development at the national and state levels. We compare our methods and findings with existing proximity studies. RESULTS Nationally, we estimate that 17.6 million people live within 1,600m (∼1 mi) of at least one active oil and/or gas well. Three of the eight studies overestimate populations at risk from actively producing oil and gas wells by including wells without evidence of production or drilling completion and/or using inappropriate population allocation methods. The remaining five studies, by omitting conventional wells in regions dominated by historical conventional development, significantly underestimate populations at risk. CONCLUSIONS The well inventory guidelines we present provide an improved methodology for hydrocarbon proximity studies by acknowledging the importance of both conventional and unconventional well counts as well as the relative exposure risks associated with different primary production categories (e.g., oil, wet gas, dry gas) and developmental stages of wells. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP1535.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Seth B C Shonkoff
- PSE Healthy Energy , Oakland, California, USA
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy and Management, University of California, Berkeley , Berkeley, California, USA
- Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
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Li SM, Leithead A, Moussa SG, Liggio J, Moran MD, Wang D, Hayden K, Darlington A, Gordon M, Staebler R, Makar PA, Stroud CA, McLaren R, Liu PSK, O'Brien J, Mittermeier RL, Zhang J, Marson G, Cober SG, Wolde M, Wentzell JJB. Differences between measured and reported volatile organic compound emissions from oil sands facilities in Alberta, Canada. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:E3756-E3765. [PMID: 28439021 PMCID: PMC5441713 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1617862114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Large-scale oil production from oil sands deposits in Alberta, Canada has raised concerns about environmental impacts, such as the magnitude of air pollution emissions. This paper reports compound emission rates (E) for 69-89 nonbiogenic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for each of four surface mining facilities, determined with a top-down approach using aircraft measurements in the summer of 2013. The aggregate emission rate (aE) of the nonbiogenic VOCs ranged from 50 ± 14 to 70 ± 22 t/d depending on the facility. In comparison, equivalent VOC emission rates reported to the Canadian National Pollutant Release Inventory (NPRI) using accepted estimation methods were lower than the aE values by factors of 2.0 ± 0.6, 3.1 ± 1.1, 4.5 ± 1.5, and 4.1 ± 1.6 for the four facilities, indicating underestimation in the reported VOC emissions. For 11 of the combined 93 VOC species reported by all four facilities, the reported emission rate and E were similar; but for the other 82 species, the reported emission rate was lower than E The median ratio of E to that reported for all species by a facility ranged from 4.5 to 375 depending on the facility. Moreover, between 9 and 53 VOCs, for which there are existing reporting requirements to the NPRI, were not included in the facility emission reports. The comparisons between the emission reports and measurement-based emission rates indicate that improvements to VOC emission estimation methods would enhance the accuracy and completeness of emission estimates and their applicability to environmental impact assessments of oil sands developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Meng Li
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4;
| | - Amy Leithead
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - Samar G Moussa
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - John Liggio
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - Michael D Moran
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - Daniel Wang
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1A 0H3
| | - Katherine Hayden
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - Andrea Darlington
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - Mark Gordon
- Centre for Research in Earth and Space Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3
| | - Ralf Staebler
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - Paul A Makar
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - Craig A Stroud
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - Robert McLaren
- Centre for Atmospheric Chemistry, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3
| | - Peter S K Liu
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - Jason O'Brien
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - Richard L Mittermeier
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - Junhua Zhang
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - George Marson
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - Stewart G Cober
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
| | - Mengistu Wolde
- Flight Research Laboratory, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1A 0R6
| | - Jeremy J B Wentzell
- Air Quality Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada M3H 5T4
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Ren X, Hall DL, Vinciguerra T, Benish SE, Stratton PR, Ahn D, Hansford JR, Cohen MD, Sahu S, He H, Grimes C, Salawitch RJ, Ehrman SH, Dickerson RR. Methane emissions from the Marcellus Shale in southwestern Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia based on airborne measurements. JOURNAL OF GEOPHYSICAL RESEARCH. ATMOSPHERES : JGR 2017; 122:4639-4653. [PMID: 28603681 PMCID: PMC5439486 DOI: 10.1002/2016jd026070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2016] [Revised: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/05/2017] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Natural gas production in the U.S. has increased rapidly over the past decade, along with concerns about methane (CH4) leakage (total fugitive emissions), and climate impacts. Quantification of CH4 emissions from oil and natural gas (O&NG) operations is important for establishing scientifically sound, cost-effective policies for mitigating greenhouse gases. We use aircraft measurements and a mass balance approach for three flight experiments in August and September 2015 to estimate CH4 emissions from O&NG operations in the southwestern Marcellus Shale region. We estimate the mean ± 1σ CH4 emission rate as 36.7 ± 1.9 kg CH4 s-1 (or 1.16 ± 0.06 Tg CH4 yr-1) with 59% coming from O&NG operations. We estimate the mean ± 1σ CH4 leak rate from O&NG operations as 3.9 ± 0.4% with a lower limit of 1.5% and an upper limit of 6.3%. This leak rate is broadly consistent with the results from several recent top-down studies but higher than the results from a few other observational studies as well as in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency CH4 emission inventory. However, a substantial source of CH4 was found to contain little ethane (C2H6), possibly due to coalbed CH4 emitted either directly from coalmines or from wells drilled through coalbed layers. Although recent regulations requiring capture of gas from the completion venting step of the hydraulic fracturing appear to have reduced losses, our study suggests that for a 20 year time scale, energy derived from the combustion of natural gas extracted from this region will require further controls before it can exert a net climate benefit compared to coal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinrong Ren
- Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic ScienceUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
- Air Resources LaboratoryNational Oceanic and Atmospheric AdministrationCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Dolly L. Hall
- Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic ScienceUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Timothy Vinciguerra
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Sarah E. Benish
- Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic ScienceUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Phillip R. Stratton
- Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic ScienceUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Doyeon Ahn
- Department of Chemistry and BiochemistryUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | | | - Mark D. Cohen
- Air Resources LaboratoryNational Oceanic and Atmospheric AdministrationCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Sayantan Sahu
- Department of Chemistry and BiochemistryUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Hao He
- Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic ScienceUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Courtney Grimes
- Department of Chemistry and BiochemistryUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Ross J. Salawitch
- Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic ScienceUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
- Department of Chemistry and BiochemistryUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
- Earth System Science Interdisciplinary CenterUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Sheryl H. Ehrman
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Russell R. Dickerson
- Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic ScienceUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
- Earth System Science Interdisciplinary CenterUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
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Thompson TM, Shepherd D, Stacy A, Barna MG, Schichtel BA. Modeling to Evaluate Contribution of Oil and Gas Emissions to Air Pollution. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2017; 67:445-461. [PMID: 27819534 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2016.1251508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Oil and gas production in the Western United States has increased considerably over the past 10 years. While many of the still limited oil and gas impact assessments have focused on potential human health impacts, the typically remote locations of production in the Intermountain West suggests that the impacts of oil and gas production on national parks and wilderness areas (Class I and II areas) could also be important. To evaluate this, we utilize the Comprehensive Air quality Model with Extensions (CAMx) with a year-long modeling episode representing the best available representation of 2011 meteorology and emissions for the Western United States. The model inputs for the 2011 episodes were generated as part of the Three State Air Quality Study (3SAQS). The study includes a detailed assessment of oil and gas (O&G) emissions in Western States. The year-long modeling episode was run both with and without emissions from O&G production. The difference between these two runs provides an estimate of the contribution of the O&G production to air quality. These data were used to assess the contribution of O&G to the 8 hour average ozone concentrations, daily and annual fine particulate concentrations, annual nitrogen deposition totals and visibility in the modeling domain. We present the results for the Class I and II areas in the Western United States. Modeling results suggest that emissions from O&G activity are having a negative impact on air quality and ecosystem health in our National Parks and Class I areas. IMPLICATIONS In this research, we use a modeling framework developed for oil and gas evaluation in the western United States to determine the modeled impacts of emissions associated with oil and gas production on air pollution metrics. We show that oil and gas production may have a significant negative impact on air quality and ecosystem health in some national parks and other Class I areas in the western United States. Our findings are of particular interest to federal land managers as well as regulators in states heavy in oil and gas production as they consider control strategies to reduce the impact of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tammy M Thompson
- a Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , CO , USA
| | - Donald Shepherd
- b Air Resources Division , National Park Service , Lakewood , CO , USA
| | - Andrea Stacy
- b Air Resources Division , National Park Service , Lakewood , CO , USA
| | - Michael G Barna
- a Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , CO , USA
- c Air Resources Division , National Park Service , Fort Collins , CO , USA
| | - Bret A Schichtel
- a Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , CO , USA
- c Air Resources Division , National Park Service , Fort Collins , CO , USA
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Hill EA, Chrisler WB, Beliaev AS, Bernstein HC. A flexible microbial co-culture platform for simultaneous utilization of methane and carbon dioxide from gas feedstocks. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2017; 228:250-256. [PMID: 28092828 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2016.12.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Revised: 12/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/31/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
A new co-cultivation technology is presented that converts greenhouse gasses, CH4 and CO2, into microbial biomass. The methanotrophic bacterium, Methylomicrobium alcaliphilum 20z, was coupled to a cyanobacterium, Synechococcus PCC 7002 via oxygenic photosynthesis. The system exhibited robust growth on diverse gas mixtures ranging from biogas to those representative of a natural gas feedstock. A continuous processes was developed on a synthetic natural gas feed that achieved steady-state by imposing coupled light and O2 limitations on the cyanobacterium and methanotroph, respectively. Continuous co-cultivation resulted in an O2 depleted reactor and does not require CH4/O2 mixtures to be fed into the system, thereby enhancing process safety considerations over traditional methanotroph mono-culture platforms. This co-culture technology is scalable with respect to its ability to utilize different gas streams and its biological components constructed from model bacteria that can be metabolically customized to produce a range of biofuels and bioproducts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric A Hill
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, USA
| | - William B Chrisler
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, USA
| | - Alex S Beliaev
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, USA
| | - Hans C Bernstein
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, USA; The Gene and Linda Voiland School of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
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Childhood hematologic cancer and residential proximity to oil and gas development. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170423. [PMID: 28199334 PMCID: PMC5310851 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Oil and gas development emits known hematological carcinogens, such as benzene, and increasingly occurs in residential areas. We explored whether residential proximity to oil and gas development was associated with risk for hematologic cancers using a registry-based case-control study design. Methods Participants were 0–24 years old, living in rural Colorado, and diagnosed with cancer between 2001–2013. For each child in our study, we calculated inverse distance weighted (IDW) oil and gas well counts within a 16.1-kilometer radius of residence at cancer diagnosis for each year in a 10 year latency period to estimate density of oil and gas development. Logistic regression, adjusted for age, race, gender, income, and elevation was used to estimate associations across IDW well count tertiles for 87 acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) cases and 50 non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) cases, compared to 528 controls with non-hematologic cancers. Findings Overall, ALL cases 0–24 years old were more likely to live in the highest IDW well count tertiles compared to controls, but findings differed substantially by age. For ages 5–24, ALL cases were 4.3 times as likely to live in the highest tertile, compared to controls (95% CI: 1.1 to 16), with a monotonic increase in risk across tertiles (trend p-value = 0.035). Further adjustment for year of diagnosis increased the association. No association was found between ALL for children aged 0–4 years or NHL and IDW well counts. While our study benefited from the ability to select cases and controls from the same population, use of cancer-controls, the limited number of ALL and NHL cases, and aggregation of ages into five year ranges, may have biased our associations toward the null. In addition, absence of information on O&G well activities, meteorology, and topography likely reduced temporal and spatial specificity in IDW well counts. Conclusion Because oil and gas development has potential to expose a large population to known hematologic carcinogens, further study is clearly needed to substantiate both our positive and negative findings. Future studies should incorporate information on oil and gas development activities and production levels, as well as levels of specific pollutants of interest (e.g. benzene) near homes, schools, and day care centers; provide age-specific residential histories; compare cases to controls without cancer; and address other potential confounders, and environmental stressors.
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80
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Evans JM, Helmig D. Investigation of the influence of transport from oil and natural gas regions on elevated ozone levels in the northern Colorado front range. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2017; 67:196-211. [PMID: 27629587 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2016.1226989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2016] [Revised: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The Northern Colorado Front Range (NCFR) has been in exceedance of the ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) since 2004, which has led to much debate over the sources of ozone precursors to the region, as this area is home to both the Denver, CO, metropolitan area and the Denver-Julesburg Basin, which has experienced rapid growth of oil and natural gas (O&NG) operations and associated emissions. Several recent studies have reported elevated levels of atmospheric volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as a result of O&NG emissions and the potential for significant ozone production from these emissions, despite implementation of stricter O&NG VOC emissions regulations in 2008. Approximately 88% of 1-hr elevated ozone events (>75 ppbv) occur during June-August, indicating that elevated ozone levels are driven by regional photochemistry. Analyses of surface ozone and wind observations from two sites, namely, South Boulder and the Boulder Atmospheric Observatory, both near Boulder, CO, show a preponderance of elevated ozone events associated with east-to-west airflow from regions with O&NG operations in the N-ESE, and a relatively minor contribution of transport from the Denver Metropolitan area to the SE-S. Transport from upwind areas associated with abundant O&NG operations accounts for on the order of 65% (mean for both sites) of 1-hr averaged elevated ozone levels, while the Denver urban corridor accounts for 9%. These correlations contribute to mounting evidence that air transport from areas with O&NG operation has a significant impact on ozone and air quality in the NCFR. IMPLICATIONS This article builds on several previous pieces of research that implied significant contributions from oil and natural gas emissions on ozone production in the Northern Colorado Front Range. By correlating increased ozone events with transport analyses we show that there is a high abundance of transport events with elevated ozone originating from the Denver-Julesburg oil and natural gas basin. These findings will help air quality regulators to better assess contributing sources to ozone production and in directing policies to curb ozone pollution in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason M Evans
- a Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR), University of Colorado Boulder , Boulder , CO , USA
| | - Detlev Helmig
- a Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR), University of Colorado Boulder , Boulder , CO , USA
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81
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Cossel KC, Waxman EM, Finneran IA, Blake GA, Ye J, Newbury NR. Gas-phase broadband spectroscopy using active sources: progress, status, and applications. JOURNAL OF THE OPTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA. B, OPTICAL PHYSICS 2017; 34:104-129. [PMID: 28630530 PMCID: PMC5473295 DOI: 10.1364/josab.34.000104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Broadband spectroscopy is an invaluable tool for measuring multiple gas-phase species simultaneously. In this work we review basic techniques, implementations, and current applications for broadband spectroscopy. We discuss components of broad-band spectroscopy including light sources, absorption cells, and detection methods and then discuss specific combinations of these components in commonly-used techniques. We finish this review by discussing potential future advances in techniques and applications of broad-band spectroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin C. Cossel
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, 325 Broadway, Boulder, Colorado 80305, USA
| | - Eleanor M. Waxman
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, 325 Broadway, Boulder, Colorado 80305, USA
| | - Ian A. Finneran
- Division of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125
| | - Geoffrey A. Blake
- Division of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125
| | - Jun Ye
- JILA, National Institute of Standards and Technology and University of Colorado, Department of Physics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Nathan R. Newbury
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, 325 Broadway, Boulder, Colorado 80305, USA
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82
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Oxidative Stress and Genotoxicity of Long-Term Occupational Exposure to Low Levels of BTEX in Gas Station Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13121212. [PMID: 27929445 PMCID: PMC5201353 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13121212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Revised: 11/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Atmospheric benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX) can lead to multiple health injuries. However, what remains uncertain is the effect of long-term exposure to low levels of BTEX. Thus, we determined the BTEX levels in the air from the refueling and office areas in gas stations. Then we collected workers’ (200 refueling vs. 52 office workers) peripheral blood samples to analyze the serum total-superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels. DNA damage was analyzed by the comet assay and micronucleus test in buccal epithelial cells. We found that the levels of BTEX in refueling areas were significantly higher than those in office areas (p < 0.001). The serum T-SOD and GSH of refueling workers were significantly lower than those in office workers (p < 0.001). By contrast, the serum MDA and 8-OHdG of refueling workers were significantly higher than those of office workers (p < 0.001, MDA; p = 0.025, 8-OHdG). Furthermore, tail and Olive tail moments in refueling workers were longer (p = 0.004, tail moment; p = 0.001, Olive tail moment), and the micronucleus rate was higher (p < 0.001) than those in office workers. Taken together, long-term exposure to low levels of BTEX may reduce the antioxidant ability and increase the risk of DNA damage in refueling workers of gas stations.
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83
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Marrero JE, Townsend-Small A, Lyon DR, Tsai TR, Meinardi S, Blake DR. Estimating Emissions of Toxic Hydrocarbons from Natural Gas Production Sites in the Barnett Shale Region of Northern Texas. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:10756-10764. [PMID: 27580823 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b02827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Oil and natural gas operations have continued to expand and move closer to densely populated areas, contributing to growing public concerns regarding exposure to hazardous air pollutants. During the Barnett Shale Coordinated Campaign in October, 2013, ground-based whole air samples collected downwind of oil and gas sites revealed enhancements in several potentially toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when compared to background values. Molar emissions ratios relative to methane were determined for hexane, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX compounds). Using methane leak rates measured from the Picarro mobile flux plane (MFP) system and a Barnett Shale regional methane emissions inventory, the rates of emission of these toxic gases were calculated. Benzene emissions ranged between 51 ± 4 and 60 ± 4 kg h-1. Hexane, the most abundantly emitted pollutant, ranged from 642 ± 45 to 1070 ± 340 kg h-1. While observed hydrocarbon enhancements fall below federal workplace standards, results may indicate a link between emissions from oil and natural gas operations and concerns about exposure to hazardous air pollutants. The larger public health risks associated with the production and distribution of natural gas are of particular importance and warrant further investigation, particularly as the use of natural gas increases in the United States and internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josette E Marrero
- NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, California 94035, United States
| | - Amy Townsend-Small
- Departments of Geology and Geography, University of Cincinnati , Cincinnati, Ohio 45221, United States
| | - David R Lyon
- Environmental Defense Fund, Austin, Texas 78701, United States
| | - Tracy R Tsai
- Picarro, Inc., Santa Clara, California 95054, United States
| | - Simone Meinardi
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine , Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Donald R Blake
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine , Irvine, California 92697, United States
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84
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Das K, Mendiratta S, Datta A, Gajewska MJ, Garribba E, Akitsu T, Sinha C. A New CuII
Coordination Polymer: Structural Elucidation, EPR and Sensing Studies for Detection of Volatile Organic Solvents. ChemistrySelect 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.201600390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kuheli Das
- Department of Chemistry; Jadavpur University; Kolkata - 700032 India
| | - Shruti Mendiratta
- Institute of Chemistry; Academia Sinica; Nankang Taipei - 115 Taiwan
| | - Amitabha Datta
- Institute of Chemistry; Academia Sinica; Nankang Taipei - 115 Taiwan
| | | | - Eugenio Garribba
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Farmacia; Università di Sassari; Via Vienna 2 I-07100 Sassari Italy
| | - Takashiro Akitsu
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science; Tokyo University of Science; 1-3 Kagurazaka Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8601 Japan
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85
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Webb E, Hays J, Dyrszka L, Rodriguez B, Cox C, Huffling K, Bushkin-Bedient S. Potential hazards of air pollutant emissions from unconventional oil and natural gas operations on the respiratory health of children and infants. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2016; 31:225-243. [PMID: 27171386 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2014-0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Research on air pollutant emissions associated with unconventional oil and gas (UOG) development has grown significantly in recent years. Empirical investigations have focused on the identification and measurement of oil and gas air pollutants [e.g. volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter (PM), methane] and the influence of UOG on local and regional ambient air quality (e.g. tropospheric ozone). While more studies to better characterize spatial and temporal trends in exposure among children and newborns near UOG sites are needed, existing research suggests that exposure to air pollutants emitted during lifecycle operations can potentially lead to adverse respiratory outcomes in this population. Children are known to be at a greater risk from exposure to air pollutants, which can impair lung function and neurodevelopment, or exacerbate existing conditions, such as asthma, because the respiratory system is particularly vulnerable during development in-utero, the postnatal period, and early childhood. In this article, we review the literature relevant to respiratory risks of UOG on infants and children. Existing epidemiology studies document the impact of air pollutant exposure on children in other contexts and suggest impacts near UOG. Research is sparse on long-term health risks associated with frequent acute exposures - especially in children - hence our interpretation of these findings may be conservative. Many data gaps remain, but existing data support precautionary measures to protect the health of infants and children.
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86
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Liggio J, Li SM, Hayden K, Taha YM, Stroud C, Darlington A, Drollette BD, Gordon M, Lee P, Liu P, Leithead A, Moussa SG, Wang D, O’Brien J, Mittermeier RL, Brook JR, Lu G, Staebler RM, Han Y, Tokarek TW, Osthoff HD, Makar PA, Zhang J, L. Plata D, Gentner DR. Oil sands operations as a large source of secondary organic aerosols. Nature 2016; 534:91-4. [DOI: 10.1038/nature17646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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87
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Carpenter DO. Hydraulic fracturing for natural gas: impact on health and environment. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2016; 31:47-51. [PMID: 26943595 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2015-0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Shale deposits exist in many parts of the world and contain relatively large amounts of natural gas and oil. Recent technological developments in the process of horizontal hydraulic fracturing (hydrofracturing or fracking) have suddenly made it economically feasible to extract natural gas from shale. While natural gas is a much cleaner burning fuel than coal, there are a number of significant threats to human health from the extraction process as currently practiced. There are immediate threats to health resulting from air pollution from volatile organic compounds, which contain carcinogens such as benzene and ethyl-benzene, and which have adverse neurologic and respiratory effects. Hydrogen sulfide, a component of natural gas, is a potent neuro- and respiratory toxin. In addition, levels of formaldehyde are elevated around fracking sites due to truck traffic and conversion of methane to formaldehyde by sunlight. There are major concerns about water contamination because the chemicals used can get into both ground and surface water. Much of the produced water (up to 40% of what is injected) comes back out of the gas well with significant radioactivity because radium in subsurface rock is relatively water soluble. There are significant long-term threats beyond cancer, including exacerbation of climate change due to the release of methane into the atmosphere, and increased earthquake activity due to disruption of subsurface tectonic plates. While fracking for natural gas has significant economic benefits, and while natural gas is theoretically a better fossil fuel as compared to coal and oil, current fracking practices pose significant adverse health effects to workers and near-by residents. The health of the public should not be compromized simply for the economic benefits to the industry.
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88
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Yu Y, Ma JP, Zhao CW, Yang J, Zhang XM, Liu QK, Dong YB. Copper(I) Metal–Organic Framework: Visual Sensor for Detecting Small Polar Aliphatic Volatile Organic Compounds. Inorg Chem 2015; 54:11590-2. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.5b02150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yu
- College of Chemistry, Chemical
Engineering and Materials Science, Collaborative Innovation Center
of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong,
Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, P. R. China
| | - Jian-Ping Ma
- College of Chemistry, Chemical
Engineering and Materials Science, Collaborative Innovation Center
of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong,
Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, P. R. China
| | - Chao-Wei Zhao
- College of Chemistry, Chemical
Engineering and Materials Science, Collaborative Innovation Center
of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong,
Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, P. R. China
| | - Jing Yang
- College of Chemistry, Chemical
Engineering and Materials Science, Collaborative Innovation Center
of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong,
Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Meng Zhang
- College of Chemistry, Chemical
Engineering and Materials Science, Collaborative Innovation Center
of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong,
Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, P. R. China
| | - Qi-Kui Liu
- College of Chemistry, Chemical
Engineering and Materials Science, Collaborative Innovation Center
of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong,
Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Bin Dong
- College of Chemistry, Chemical
Engineering and Materials Science, Collaborative Innovation Center
of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong,
Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, P. R. China
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89
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Ahmadi M, John K. Statistical evaluation of the impact of shale gas activities on ozone pollution in North Texas. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2015; 536:457-467. [PMID: 26232756 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.06.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 06/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decade, substantial growth in shale gas exploration and production across the US has changed the country's energy outlook. Beyond its economic benefits, the negative impacts of shale gas development on air and water are less well known. In this study the relationship between shale gas activities and ground-level ozone pollution was statistically evaluated. The Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area in north-central Texas was selected as the study region. The Barnett Shale, which is one the most productive and fastest growing shale gas fields in the US, is located in the western half of DFW. Hourly meteorological and ozone data were acquired for fourteen years from monitoring stations established and operated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The area was divided into two regions, the shale gas region (SGR) and the non-shale gas (NSGR) region, according to the number of gas wells in close proximity to each monitoring site. The study period was also divided into 2000-2006 and 2007-2013 because the western half of DFW has experienced significant growth in shale gas activities since 2007. An evaluation of the raw ozone data showed that, while the overall trend in the ozone concentration was down over the entire region, the monitoring sites in the NSGR showed an additional reduction of 4% in the annual number of ozone exceedance days than those in the SGR. Directional analysis of ozone showed that the winds blowing from areas with high shale gas activities contributed to higher ozone downwind. KZ-filtering method and linear regression techniques were used to remove the effects of meteorological variations on ozone and to construct long-term and short-term meteorologically adjusted (M.A.) ozone time series. The mean value of all M.A. ozone components was 8% higher in the sites located within the SGR than in the NSGR. These findings may be useful for understanding the overall impact of shale gas activities on the local and regional ozone pollution.
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90
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Morgott DA. Anthropogenic and biogenic sources of Ethylene and the potential for human exposure: A literature review. Chem Biol Interact 2015; 241:10-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2015.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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91
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Lan X, Talbot R, Laine P, Torres A, Lefer B, Flynn J. Atmospheric Mercury in the Barnett Shale Area, Texas: Implications for Emissions from Oil and Gas Processing. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2015; 49:10692-10700. [PMID: 26218013 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b02287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Atmospheric mercury emissions in the Barnett Shale area were studied by employing both stationary measurements and mobile laboratory surveys. Stationary measurements near the Engle Mountain Lake showed that the median mixing ratio of total gaseous mercury (THg) was 138 ppqv (140 ± 29 ppqv for mean ± S.D.) during the June 2011 study period. A distinct diurnal variation pattern was observed in which the highest THg levels appeared near midnight, followed by a monotonic decrease until midafternoon. The influence of oil and gas (ONG) emissions was substantial in this area, as inferred from the i-pentane/n-pentane ratio (1.17). However, few THg plumes were captured by our mobile laboratory during a ∼3700 km survey with detailed downwind measurements from 50 ONG facilities. One compressor station and one natural gas condensate processing facility were found to have significant THg emissions, with maximum THg levels of 963 and 392 ppqv, respectively, and the emissions rates were estimated to be 7.9 kg/yr and 0.3 kg/yr, respectively. Our results suggest that the majority of ONG facilities in this area are not significant sources of THg; however, it is highly likely that a small number of these facilities contribute a relatively large amount of emissions in the ONG sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Lan
- Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science, Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Houston , Houston, Texas 77004, United States
| | - Robert Talbot
- Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science, Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Houston , Houston, Texas 77004, United States
| | - Patrick Laine
- Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science, Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Houston , Houston, Texas 77004, United States
| | - Azucena Torres
- Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science, Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Houston , Houston, Texas 77004, United States
| | - Barry Lefer
- Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science, Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Houston , Houston, Texas 77004, United States
| | - James Flynn
- Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science, Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Houston , Houston, Texas 77004, United States
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92
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Goetz JD, Floerchinger C, Fortner EC, Wormhoudt J, Massoli P, Knighton WB, Herndon SC, Kolb CE, Knipping E, Shaw SL, DeCarlo PF. Atmospheric emission characterization of Marcellus shale natural gas development sites. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2015; 49:7012-20. [PMID: 25897974 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b00452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Limited direct measurements of criteria pollutants emissions and precursors, as well as natural gas constituents, from Marcellus shale gas development activities contribute to uncertainty about their atmospheric impact. Real-time measurements were made with the Aerodyne Research Inc. Mobile Laboratory to characterize emission rates of atmospheric pollutants. Sites investigated include production well pads, a well pad with a drill rig, a well completion, and compressor stations. Tracer release ratio methods were used to estimate emission rates. A first-order correction factor was developed to account for errors introduced by fenceline tracer release. In contrast to observations from other shale plays, elevated volatile organic compounds, other than CH4 and C2H6, were generally not observed at the investigated sites. Elevated submicrometer particle mass concentrations were also generally not observed. Emission rates from compressor stations ranged from 0.006 to 0.162 tons per day (tpd) for NOx, 0.029 to 0.426 tpd for CO, and 67.9 to 371 tpd for CO2. CH4 and C2H6 emission rates from compressor stations ranged from 0.411 to 4.936 tpd and 0.023 to 0.062 tpd, respectively. Although limited in sample size, this study provides emission rate estimates for some processes in a newly developed natural gas resource and contributes valuable comparisons to other shale gas studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Douglas Goetz
- †Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Cody Floerchinger
- ‡Aerodyne Research, Inc., Billerica, Massachusetts 01821, United States
| | - Edward C Fortner
- ‡Aerodyne Research, Inc., Billerica, Massachusetts 01821, United States
| | - Joda Wormhoudt
- ‡Aerodyne Research, Inc., Billerica, Massachusetts 01821, United States
| | - Paola Massoli
- ‡Aerodyne Research, Inc., Billerica, Massachusetts 01821, United States
| | - W Berk Knighton
- §Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana 59717, United States
| | - Scott C Herndon
- ‡Aerodyne Research, Inc., Billerica, Massachusetts 01821, United States
| | - Charles E Kolb
- ‡Aerodyne Research, Inc., Billerica, Massachusetts 01821, United States
| | - Eladio Knipping
- ∥Electric Power Research Institute, Palo Alto, California 94304, United States
| | - Stephanie L Shaw
- ∥Electric Power Research Institute, Palo Alto, California 94304, United States
| | - Peter F DeCarlo
- †Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- ⊥Department of Chemistry, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
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93
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Bolden AL, Kwiatkowski CF, Colborn T. New Look at BTEX: Are Ambient Levels a Problem? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2015; 49:5261-76. [PMID: 25873211 DOI: 10.1021/es505316f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 217] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) are retrieved during fossil fuel extraction and used as solvents in consumer and industrial products, as gasoline additives, and as intermediates in the synthesis of organic compounds for many consumer products. Emissions from the combustion of gasoline and diesel fuels are the largest contributors to atmospheric BTEX concentrations. However, levels indoors (where people spend greater than 83% of their time) can be many times greater than outdoors. In this review we identified epidemiological studies assessing the noncancer health impacts of ambient level BTEX exposure (i.e., nonoccupational) and discussed how the health conditions may be hormonally mediated. Health effects significantly associated with ambient level exposure included sperm abnormalities, reduced fetal growth, cardiovascular disease, respiratory dysfunction, asthma, sensitization to common antigens, and more. Several hormones including estrogens, androgens, glucocorticoids, insulin, and serotonin may be involved in these health outcomes. This analysis suggests that all four chemicals may have endocrine disrupting properties at exposure levels below reference concentrations (i.e., safe levels) issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These data should be considered when evaluating the use of BTEX in consumer and industrial products and indicates a need to change how chemicals present at low concentrations are assessed and regulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley L Bolden
- †The Endocrine Disruption Exchange (TEDX), Paonia, Colorado 81428, United States
| | - Carol F Kwiatkowski
- †The Endocrine Disruption Exchange (TEDX), Paonia, Colorado 81428, United States
- ‡Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Theo Colborn
- †The Endocrine Disruption Exchange (TEDX), Paonia, Colorado 81428, United States
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Swarthout RF, Russo RS, Zhou Y, Miller BM, Mitchell B, Horsman E, Lipsky E, McCabe DC, Baum E, Sive BC. Impact of Marcellus Shale natural gas development in southwest Pennsylvania on volatile organic compound emissions and regional air quality. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2015; 49:3175-84. [PMID: 25594231 DOI: 10.1021/es504315f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The Marcellus Shale is the largest natural gas deposit in the U.S. and rapid development of this resource has raised concerns about regional air pollution. A field campaign was conducted in the southwestern Pennsylvania region of the Marcellus Shale to investigate the impact of unconventional natural gas (UNG) production operations on regional air quality. Whole air samples were collected throughout an 8050 km(2) grid surrounding Pittsburgh and analyzed for methane, carbon dioxide, and C1-C10 volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Elevated mixing ratios of methane and C2-C8 alkanes were observed in areas with the highest density of UNG wells. Source apportionment was used to identify characteristic emission ratios for UNG sources, and results indicated that UNG emissions were responsible for the majority of mixing ratios of C2-C8 alkanes, but accounted for a small proportion of alkene and aromatic compounds. The VOC emissions from UNG operations accounted for 17 ± 19% of the regional kinetic hydroxyl radical reactivity of nonbiogenic VOCs suggesting that natural gas emissions may affect compliance with federal ozone standards. A first approximation of methane emissions from the study area of 10.0 ± 5.2 kg s(-1) provides a baseline for determining the efficacy of regulatory emission control efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert F Swarthout
- Natural Resources and Earth System Science Program, University of New Hampshire , Durham, New Hampshire 03824, United States
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95
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McLeod JD, Brinkman GL, Milford JB. Emissions implications of future natural gas production and use in the U.S. and in the Rocky Mountain region. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2014; 48:13036-13044. [PMID: 25329514 DOI: 10.1021/es5029537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Enhanced prospects for natural gas production raise questions about the balance of impacts on air quality, as increased emissions from production activities are considered alongside the reductions expected when natural gas is burned in place of other fossil fuels. This study explores how trends in natural gas production over the coming decades might affect emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) for the United States and its Rocky Mountain region. The MARKAL (MARKet ALlocation) energy system optimization model is used with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's nine-region database to compare scenarios for natural gas supply and demand, constraints on the electricity generation mix, and GHG emissions fees. Through 2050, total energy system GHG emissions show little response to natural gas supply assumptions, due to offsetting changes across sectors. Policy-driven constraints or emissions fees are needed to achieve net reductions. In most scenarios, wind is a less expensive source of new electricity supplies in the Rocky Mountain region than natural gas. U.S. NOx emissions decline in all the scenarios considered. Increased VOC emissions from natural gas production offset part of the anticipated reductions from the transportation sector, especially in the Rocky Mountain region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey D McLeod
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder , Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
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96
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Macey GP, Breech R, Chernaik M, Cox C, Larson D, Thomas D, Carpenter DO. Air concentrations of volatile compounds near oil and gas production: a community-based exploratory study. Environ Health 2014; 13:82. [PMID: 25355625 PMCID: PMC4216869 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-13-82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Horizontal drilling, hydraulic fracturing, and other drilling and well stimulation technologies are now used widely in the United States and increasingly in other countries. They enable increases in oil and gas production, but there has been inadequate attention to human health impacts. Air quality near oil and gas operations is an underexplored human health concern for five reasons: (1) prior focus on threats to water quality; (2) an evolving understanding of contributions of certain oil and gas production processes to air quality; (3) limited state air quality monitoring networks; (4) significant variability in air emissions and concentrations; and (5) air quality research that misses impacts important to residents. Preliminary research suggests that volatile compounds, including hazardous air pollutants, are of potential concern. This study differs from prior research in its use of a community-based process to identify sampling locations. Through this approach, we determine concentrations of volatile compounds in air near operations that reflect community concerns and point to the need for more fine-grained and frequent monitoring at points along the production life cycle. METHODS Grab and passive air samples were collected by trained volunteers at locations identified through systematic observation of industrial operations and air impacts over the course of resident daily routines. A total of 75 volatile organics were measured using EPA Method TO-15 or TO-3 by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Formaldehyde levels were determined using UMEx 100 Passive Samplers. RESULTS Levels of eight volatile chemicals exceeded federal guidelines under several operational circumstances. Benzene, formaldehyde, and hydrogen sulfide were the most common compounds to exceed acute and other health-based risk levels. CONCLUSIONS Air concentrations of potentially dangerous compounds and chemical mixtures are frequently present near oil and gas production sites. Community-based research can provide an important supplement to state air quality monitoring programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregg P Macey
- />Center for Health, Science, and Public Policy, Brooklyn Law School, Brooklyn, New York USA
| | - Ruth Breech
- />Global Community Monitor, Richmond, California USA
| | - Mark Chernaik
- />Environmental Law Alliance Worldwide, Eugene, Oregon USA
| | - Caroline Cox
- />Center for Environmental Health, Oakland, California USA
| | - Denny Larson
- />Global Community Monitor, Richmond, California USA
| | - Deb Thomas
- />Powder River Basin Resource Council, Clark, Wyoming USA
| | - David O Carpenter
- />Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, Rensselaer, New York USA
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97
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High winter ozone pollution from carbonyl photolysis in an oil and gas basin. Nature 2014; 514:351-4. [PMID: 25274311 DOI: 10.1038/nature13767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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98
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Sommariva R, Blake RS, Cuss RJ, Cordell RL, Harrington JF, White IR, Monks PS. Observations of the release of non-methane hydrocarbons from fractured shale. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2014; 48:8891-8896. [PMID: 24978099 DOI: 10.1021/es502508w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The organic content of shale has become of commercial interest as a source of hydrocarbons, owing to the development of hydraulic fracturing ("fracking"). While the main focus is on the extraction of methane, shale also contains significant amounts of non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs). We describe the first real-time observations of the release of NMHCs from a fractured shale. Samples from the Bowland-Hodder formation (England) were analyzed under different conditions using mass spectrometry, with the objective of understanding the dynamic process of gas release upon fracturing of the shale. A wide range of NMHCs (alkanes, cycloalkanes, aromatics, and bicyclic hydrocarbons) are released at parts per million or parts per billion level with temperature- and humidity-dependent release rates, which can be rationalized in terms of the physicochemical characteristics of different hydrocarbon classes. Our results indicate that higher energy inputs (i.e., temperatures) significantly increase the amount of NMHCs released from shale, while humidity tends to suppress it; additionally, a large fraction of the gas is released within the first hour after the shale has been fractured. These findings suggest that other hydrocarbons of commercial interest may be extracted from shale and open the possibility to optimize the "fracking" process, improving gas yields and reducing environmental impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Sommariva
- Department of Chemistry, University of Leicester , Leicester LE1 7RH, United Kingdom
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99
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Helmig D, Thompson CR, Evans J, Boylan P, Hueber J, Park JH. Highly elevated atmospheric levels of volatile organic compounds in the Uintah Basin, Utah. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2014; 48:4707-15. [PMID: 24624890 DOI: 10.1021/es405046r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Oil and natural gas production in the Western United States has grown rapidly in recent years, and with this industrial expansion, growing environmental concerns have arisen regarding impacts on water supplies and air quality. Recent studies have revealed highly enhanced atmospheric levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from primary emissions in regions of heavy oil and gas development and associated rapid photochemical production of ozone during winter. Here, we present surface and vertical profile observations of VOC from the Uintah Basin Winter Ozone Studies conducted in January-February of 2012 and 2013. These measurements identify highly elevated levels of atmospheric alkane hydrocarbons with enhanced rates of C2-C5 nonmethane hydrocarbon (NMHC) mean mole fractions during temperature inversion events in 2013 at 200-300 times above the regional and seasonal background. Elevated atmospheric NMHC mole fractions coincided with build-up of ambient 1-h ozone to levels exceeding 150 ppbv (parts per billion by volume). The total annual mass flux of C2-C7 VOC was estimated at 194 ± 56 × 10(6) kg yr(-1), equivalent to the annual VOC emissions of a fleet of ∼100 million automobiles. Total annual fugitive emission of the aromatic compounds benzene and toluene, considered air toxics, were estimated at 1.6 ± 0.4 × 10(6) and 2.0 ± 0.5 × 10(6) kg yr(-1), respectively. These observations reveal a strong causal link between oil and gas emissions, accumulation of air toxics, and significant production of ozone in the atmospheric surface layer.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Helmig
- Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR), University of Colorado , Boulder, Colorado 80309-0450, United States
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100
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Field RA, Soltis J, Murphy S. Air quality concerns of unconventional oil and natural gas production. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2014; 16:954-969. [PMID: 24699994 DOI: 10.1039/c4em00081a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Increased use of hydraulic fracturing ("fracking") in unconventional oil and natural gas (O & NG) development from coal, sandstone, and shale deposits in the United States (US) has created environmental concerns over water and air quality impacts. In this perspective we focus on how the production of unconventional O & NG affects air quality. We pay particular attention to shale gas as this type of development has transformed natural gas production in the US and is set to become important in the rest of the world. A variety of potential emission sources can be spread over tens of thousands of acres of a production area and this complicates assessment of local and regional air quality impacts. We outline upstream activities including drilling, completion and production. After contrasting the context for development activities in the US and Europe we explore the use of inventories for determining air emissions. Location and scale of analysis is important, as O & NG production emissions in some US basins account for nearly 100% of the pollution burden, whereas in other basins these activities make up less than 10% of total air emissions. While emission inventories are beneficial to quantifying air emissions from a particular source category, they do have limitations when determining air quality impacts from a large area. Air monitoring is essential, not only to validate inventories, but also to measure impacts. We describe the use of measurements, including ground-based mobile monitoring, network stations, airborne, and satellite platforms for measuring air quality impacts. We identify nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds (VOC), ozone, hazardous air pollutants (HAP), and methane as pollutants of concern related to O & NG activities. These pollutants can contribute to air quality concerns and they may be regulated in ambient air, due to human health or climate forcing concerns. Close to well pads, emissions are concentrated and exposure to a wide range of pollutants is possible. Public health protection is improved when emissions are controlled and facilities are located away from where people live. Based on lessons learned in the US we outline an approach for future unconventional O & NG development that includes regulation, assessment and monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Field
- Department of Atmospheric Science, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071, USA.
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