The Cost of Aviation Lead Pollution

Miki Barnes, LCSW
January 4, 2017

The article Lead Emissions in Planes May be Costing Billions in Lost Wages discusses the economic impact of lead pollution.

Specific to Oregon, the EPA has identified Hillsboro Airport as the largest source of lead emissions in Oregon. This facility emits 0.8 tons of lead per year during the landing and take-off phase of flight. Pre-flight run-ups are also a major source of lead pollution, however the Port of Portland opted not to include these emissions in their estimates. Other Port owned and operated airports - Portland International and Troutdale - also release lead into the environment on a routine basis, as do the many general aviation airports located throughout the state.