In an unprecedented move, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District and California Air Resources Board have issued a nearly $82 million fine to Valero Refining Co. for air quality violations. This massive penalty, announced today, stands as the largest in the history of the Air District and signifies a strong stance against environmental non-compliance. According to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, over $64 million of this landmark penalty will be funneled directly to the local community for projects to abate air pollution and improve public health near the Benicia refinery.
The sizable fine is rooted in a 2019 inspection uncovering that Valero failed to report harmful emissions of organic compounds from their hydrogen system, a serious violation of Air District regulations. Not only did the unreported emissions far exceed legal limits, but the toxic compounds detected, which include benzene and xylene, can cause grave health issues like cancer and reproductive harm. The company, it was found, had been aware of these emissions since no less than 2003 yet failed to take action to stem them or make them known. Dr. Philip Fine, executive officer of the Air District, emphasized the district's commitment to safeguarding the health of those living in refinery communities, according to Bay Area Air Quality Management District.
Valero will also be required to implement corrective measures to prevent future infractions as part of the settlement. These include revamping the hydrogen venting system to curtail direct emissions into the atmosphere and instituting comprehensive staff training on Air District regulations. Meanwhile, Steve Young, Benicia Mayor and a member of the Air District Board of Directors, asserted the significance of this penalty, asserting that it sends a strong message about the necessity and expectation for adherence to air quality standards.
