Richmond Chevron refinery poses higher cancer risk, report says

Key Points:

• A preliminary health assessment by the Bay Area Air District found that residents near the Chevron refinery in Richmond face a cancer risk of 37 in a million, exceeding the district's threshold of 10 in a million, along with elevated risks of other diseases from short-term exposure.
• The main pollutants contributing to health risks are benzo[a]pyrene, from leaks at pipe fittings and storage tanks, and benzene from the refinery’s wastewater treatment system.
• If confirmed after public input, Chevron will be required to implement pollution reduction measures or install the best available pollution controls at the refinery.
• Chevron disputes the findings, claiming the assessment overstates emissions and includes outdated equipment data, while the Bay Area Air District emphasizes the importance of community feedback before finalizing the report.
• The district will hold a community meeting on September 21 to discuss the findings and accept public comments until November 23; Richmond’s mayor supports ensuring corporate environmental and social responsibility.