A recent endangerment finding from the EPA confirmed that airborne emissions from lead-based fuels threaten human health and public welfare. How does this long-overdue regulatory action impact flyers and the planet?
Lead in Aviation Is an Overlooked Concern
The EPA has been researching the public health and environmental impact of lead from aviation for years. It is not a facet of every aircraft. However, there are around 190,000 small piston-engine planes in the U.S. that account for about 70% of the atmosphere’s lead concentration. Most commercial aircraft use jet fuel, which also tarnishes the planet.
Small airplanes only support two to 10 passengers, but they release noteworthy pollutants, primarily harming children living near airports. Their susceptible immune systems take the brunt of the impact with long-term, incurable conditions. Recent research discovered Californian children growing up in these regions have 21% more lead in their blood. The airborne particles travel much farther, making nearby communities prone to inhaling it.
Everyone could experience ailments from exposure, including respiratory and neurodevelopmental concerns. Alleviating the unnecessary burden on medical professionals and the Earth is vital for quantifying the benefits of this transition. Otherwise, buy-in will be even more of a challenge.
Regulations and Progress in Lead Emission Reduction
In 2023, the EPA will work with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to hold hearings and create new policies for fuel standards that are less damaging to the planet and its people. The FAA only certifies compliant fuel use rather than establishes rules, so it is collaborating with more relevant partners to make comprehensive changes.
Recent research with the Piston Aviation Fuels Initiative investigated viable alternatives to the industry-standard 100-octane low-lead (100LL) gasoline. Current fuels prevent engines from sudden damage, so a product with similar protective qualities is critical for safety.
The study presented alternatives with caveats, such as combustion problems or groundwater pollution potential. Aromatics like toluene have low toxicity but might be incompatible. Oxygenates like ethanol are octane enhancers but are not widely permitted and have an odor.
The Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions (EAGLE) project is another method for funding, researching and transitioning away from 100LL fuel. Expanding funding opportunities to public and private sources was the goal. After the industry generates solutions, the FAA will test and regulate the most successful alternative for a lead-free future.
Considerations for Development
Investing time and resources into sustainable air fuels (SAFs) must take center stage, too. Focusing on unleaded fuel is progress but not the stopping point. Aviation’s overall impact is one of the most prominent on the planet, making more climate-considerate action necessary.
Taking lead out of small aircraft will remove most of this pollutant from the atmosphere. However, the nation must heal the existing damage. Airborne lead disproportionately impacts less-privileged communities and marginalized populations for several reasons, including:
- Lower-quality water sanitation.
- Reduced financial and geographical access to health care.
- Tendency to work in sectors with high pollutant exposure.
- Racial justice oversights.
Additionally, the cost of living is typically cheaper near airports due to inconveniences like sound and air pollution. The situation forces families to make a decision between a more reasonable rent payment versus being strapped but less in the way of pollution. Healing communities of injustices should be a priority while transitioning out of lead-based fuels.
Eliminating Lead from the Atmosphere
While taking lead out of all aircraft fuels is a catalyst for a healthier atmosphere, it should only be the start. Reducing carbon dioxide output from small-piston engines requires firmer regulations and innovations in sustainable aircraft design. Worldwide collaboration will forge tomorrow’s aircraft with fuel that considers the planet’s wellness instead of destroying it.
About the author: Jane works as an environmental and energy writer. She is also the founder and editor-in-chief of Environment.co.
Energy in Demand - Sustainable Energy - Rod Janssen 