Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST)

Definition

Leaking Underground Storage Tanks (LUST) refer to underground storage tanks, usually found at gas stations, that have developed leaks. These tanks can release hazardous substances such as petroleum products and other chemicals into the surrounding environment. The leaks can cause soil contamination and groundwater pollution, posing significant risks to both environmental and human health.

Examples

Gas Stations: Many gas stations have underground tanks for storing gasoline and diesel. If these tanks develop leaks, the petrol can seep into the ground, contaminating the soil and groundwater.
Chemical Plants: Underground storage tanks at chemical manufacturing facilities can store various hazardous substances. Leaks from these tanks can result in the release of dangerous chemicals into the environment.
Military Bases: Military bases often have underground storage tanks for storing jet fuel and other hazardous materials. LUSTs at these locations can be particularly troublesome due to the toxic nature of substances involved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes leaks in underground storage tanks?

Various factors can lead to leaks in underground storage tanks, including corrosion, faulty installation, improper maintenance, and structural failures.

How are LUSTs detected?

Leaking underground storage tanks are typically detected through soil and groundwater testing, monitoring wells, and the use of advanced leak detection technologies.

What are the environmental impacts of LUSTs?

The primary environmental impacts of LUSTs include soil contamination, groundwater pollution, and the potential to harm aquatic ecosystems and human health by releasing hazardous substances like petroleum products.

What regulations govern LUSTs?

In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) governs underground storage tanks through the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). States may also have additional regulations and cleanup programs for LUSTs.

What are the remediation methods for LUST sites?

Common remediation methods include soil excavation, groundwater treatment, chemical oxidation, and bioremediation, depending on the extent and type of contamination.

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS): A document detailing the potential environmental effects of a proposed project, required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
Bioremediation: A method of treating pollutants by encouraging the growth of microorganisms that can break down contaminants.
EPA (Environmental Protection Agency): The federal agency responsible for regulating and ensuring environmental protection laws are followed.
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA): A federal law regulating the management of hazardous waste from its creation to its disposal.

Online Resources

References

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2020). “Underground Storage Tanks (USTs)”. EPA Website
National Ground Water Association. (2019). “Groundwater Protection Initiatives”. NGWA

Suggested Books for Further Study

“Fundamentals of Environmental Chemistry” by Stanley E. Manahan
“Groundwater and Wells” by Fletcher G. Driscoll
“Hazardous Waste Management” by Michael D. LaGrega, Philip L. Buckingham, and Jeffrey C. Evans

Real Estate Basics: Leaking Underground Storage Tank Fundamentals Quiz

### Which of the following is commonly stored in underground storage tanks at gas stations? - [ ] Water - [x] Gasoline - [ ] Waste oil - [ ] Soil > **Explanation:** Gasoline is commonly stored in underground storage tanks at gas stations. When these tanks leak, they can contaminate the surrounding environment. ### What government agency regulates underground storage tanks in the United States? - [x] The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - [ ] The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) - [ ] The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) - [ ] The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) > **Explanation:** In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates underground storage tanks through federal laws such as the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). ### What type of contamination primarily results from LUST incidents? - [ ] Air pollution - [x] Soil and groundwater pollution - [ ] Noise pollution - [ ] Light pollution > **Explanation:** LUST incidents primarily result in soil and groundwater pollution, posing significant environmental and health risks due to the release of hazardous substances such as petroleum. ### What is a common method for detecting leaks in underground storage tanks? - [x] Soil and groundwater testing - [ ] Satellite imagery - [ ] Air quality monitoring - [ ] Acoustic sensors > **Explanation:** Soil and groundwater testing are common methods used to detect leaks in underground storage tanks, as they help identify contamination by hazardous substances. ### What is bioremediation? - [ ] A method of incinerating waste - [x] A method of treating pollutants using microorganisms - [ ] A type of chemical oxidation - [ ] A process for designing tanks > **Explanation:** Bioremediation is a method of treating pollutants by encouraging the growth of microorganisms that can break down contaminants in the environment. ### What typically causes leaks in underground storage tanks? - [x] Corrosion, faulty installation, and structural failures - [ ] Earthquakes only - [ ] Excessive water pressure - [ ] Air pollution > **Explanation:** Leaks in underground storage tanks can be caused by factors like corrosion, faulty installation, improper maintenance, and structural failures. ### What does the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulate? - [x] The management of hazardous waste, including underground storage tanks - [ ] The levels of air pollution - [ ] The design of residential buildings - [ ] Financial oversight for real estate deals > **Explanation:** The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulates the management of hazardous waste, including the installation, maintenance, and cleanup of underground storage tanks. ### What is the primary environmental impact of a LUST? - [x] Soil and groundwater contamination - [ ] Air pollution - [ ] Increased greenhouse gases - [ ] Deforestation > **Explanation:** The primary environmental impact of a LUST is soil and groundwater contamination, which can pose significant risks to ecosystems and human health. ### What is a common remediation method for LUST contamination? - [x] Groundwater treatment - [ ] Overhead irrigation - [ ] Chemical incineration - [ ] Wind turbines > **Explanation:** Groundwater treatment is a common remediation method used to address contamination resulting from LUSTs, removing or neutralizing hazardous substances in the groundwater. ### Which sector is most likely to have underground storage tanks that can potentially leak? - [ ] Agriculture - [x] Gas stations and fuel storage facilities - [ ] Residential homes - [ ] The food service industry > **Explanation:** Gas stations and fuel storage facilities are most likely to have underground storage tanks that can potentially leak, leading to environmental contamination.