Regional Information on Ethylene Oxide
EPA is addressing ethylene oxide based on the results of the latest National Air Toxics Assessment (NATA), which identified the chemical as a potential concern in several areas across the country. NATA is the Agency’s nationwide air toxics screening tool, designed to help EPA and state, local and tribal air agencies identify areas, pollutants or types of sources for further examination. The 2014 NATA estimates that ethylene oxide significantly contributes to potential elevated cancer risks in some census tracts across the U.S. (less than 1 percent of the total number of tracts). These elevated risks are largely driven by an EPA risk value that was updated in late 2016.
EPA is working with industry, and state, local and tribal air agencies as we address ethylene oxide emissions. Information is available for the following areas: