LOUISVILLE, Ky. —
Louisville might soon be exempt from mandates to sell reformulated gas at the pump, which will save drivers money at the pump.
The city has submitted a request to the Environmental Protection Agency to withdraw from the program requiring reformulated gas at all pumps.
Reformulated gas is a type of gasoline that burns cleaner than regular gasoline does. This type of gas reduces pollution emissions and helps improve air quality.
Reformulated gas also costs more at the pump.
This federal mandate has required local gas stations to sell reformulated gas for almost 30 years.
It was established as part of the 1990 Clean Air Act amendments. The first phase of the program began in 1995, and the current phase began in 2000.
According to the EPA, cities like Louisville, with high smog levels, are required to use reformulated gas. EPA officials say roughly 25 percent of gas sold in the U.S. is reformulated.
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg said during a press conference that Louisville has made enough progress in improving air quality to qualify for this exemption.
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Reformulated gasoline (RFG) is a type of gasoline specifically formulated to burn more cleanly and reduce harmful emissions compared to conventional gasoline. It's a key component of efforts to improve air quality, particularly in areas with high levels of smog.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
What it is:
RFG is gasoline that has been engineered to reduce emissions of pollutants that contribute to smog and other air quality problems.
It is designed to reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen oxides (NOx), all of which are precursors to ozone formation.
RFG also reduces emissions of some toxic air pollutants.
How it works:
RFG achieves cleaner burning through specific fuel specifications and the use of additives.
These specifications often include limits on benzene, sulfur, and other components that can contribute to emissions.
The blending process to create RFG may involve more refining steps than conventional gasoline, potentially increasing its cost.
Why it's used:
The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 mandated the use of RFG in areas with the highest levels of smog, known as ozone non-attainment areas.
By reducing harmful emissions, RFG helps to improve air quality and protect public health, particularly for those living in or near urban areas.
Key features:
RFG is a key strategy for reducing smog, especially in urban areas, according to the U.S. EPA.
It is estimated to have significantly reduced emissions of VOCs and NOx from mobile sources.
The RFG program is a key component of the overall strategy to reduce smog and improve air quality in the United States.
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) also has its own RFG program, with specific standards for California gasoline.
