Canada Plans to Reduce VOC Emissions from Petroleum Sectors

By Fatemeh Bamdad, PhD, Senior Regulatory Specialist, Supply Chain team, UL Solutions

On February 24, 2024, a proposed regulation was published in the Canada Gazette Part I to reduce the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from liquid petroleum storage and loading facilities.

The proposed rule would address the fugitive VOC emissions from petroleum and petrochemical operations which are one of the largest sources of uncontrolled VOC releases. Emitted VOCs react with other pollutants under sunlight and generate ground-level ozone and fine particulate matters which lead to smog formation. Considering the proximity of these storage and loading facilities to the indigenous communities and residential areas, the proposed regulation will result in remarkable improvements in human health and the environment.

The facilities subject to the proposal would include petroleum liquid terminals and bulk plants, refineries, upgraders and petrochemical facilities. The regulated facilities would be required to install, inspect, and maintain emission control equipment. The proposal would also require record-keeping and reporting requirements for the operators of the regulated facilities.

The proposal is open for comments until April 24, 2024. Interested parties are encouraged to share their comments on the proposed regulations or file a notice of objection through the online commenting feature or by mail.

*Note: The reader is strongly encouraged to read the full text of the proposed regulations for complete details.

Reference:

Reduction in the Release of Volatile Organic Compounds (Storage and Loading of Volatile Petroleum Liquids) Regulations. Canada Gazette, Part I, Vol. 158, No. 8, February 24, 2024.