| MTBE, Methyl Tert Butyl Ether, a | | | | MTBE is a known carcinogen. Many |
| gasoline additive, is being found in | | | | studies regarding health effects of MTBE |
| drinking water all over the United | | | | are currently underway. Cancer, |
| States due to fuel spills, leaking gas | | | | Lymphoma, leukemia, testicular tumors, |
| tanks and leaking underground gasoline | | | | thyroid tumors and kidney tumors are a |
| storage tanks. MTBE has been used in | | | | few of the known health effects at this |
| gasoline since 1979 to replace lead as | | | | time, however, little is known about |
| an octane enhancer as it helps prevent | | | | the health effects of low level long |
| engine knock. | | | | term exposure. |
| MTBE is contaminating our air, water, | | | | MTBE, in heavier concentrations, causes |
| and soil. MTBE mixes well with water. | | | | bad taste and odor in drinking water. |
| Rain distributes MTBE nationwide. Storm | | | | If MTBE is present at levels of 20 - 40 |
| runoff carries it into our streams, | | | | ppb drinking water tastes and smells |
| rivers, and reservoirs. MTBE is very | | | | like turpentine. |
| transient as it washes easily through | | | | At this time, 20 - 40 ppb is considered |
| soil resulting in groundwater | | | | an acceptable level. |
| contamination. Cleanup is virtually | | | | There are a few drinking water filters |
| impossible due to the vast | | | | on the market today that can effectively |
| contamination. | | | | reduce MTBE. |