Today, the Air District announced its disapproval of Fenceline Air Monitoring Plans from all five Bay Area refineries for noncompliance with Refining Emissions Tracking Rule requirements. Refineries must now vigilantly monitor, record, and publicly communicate the concentration levels of multiple compounds across their property lines, per the Bay Area Air Quality Management District.

To comply with the Refining Emissions Tracking Rule, Fenceline Air Monitoring Plans must meticulously describe the equipment used for monitoring. Procedures for data quality assurance, quality control, and reporting also should be detailed. The rejections underscore the Air District's initiative to better cater to communities largely affected by air pollution and bolster its emissions, as well as air quality measurement programs.

One should keep in mind that fenceline monitoring is simply a part of many tools used by the Air District in order to measure air pollutant concentrations and facility emissions. The need for improvements in monitoring methods and a consistent dedication to fenceline monitoring arises from the realization that air pollution typically poses a significant threat to vulnerable communities, which often bear the cost of industrial activities. Despite the plans' rejection, the Air District will work with the refineries to make the necessary corrections.

Real-time fenceline monitoring data has already been made accessible to the public via the Fenceline Monitoring Program website. The commitment to transparency hopes to help empower the communities, also it proves to be a valuable resource for individuals interested in air quality and pollution control.

It is necessary, to closely maintain a vigilant watch on developments regarding the Fenceline Air Monitoring Plans and the adjustments required by refineries.