US phasing out rubber fittings

The US government and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) intend to phase out rubber boots used on petrol pump handles that capture harmful vapours while refuelling cars. EPA says the removal is necessary because more than 70% of cars on the road are now equipped with on-board systems that capture the harmful vapours.

About 31,000 petrol stations in mostly urban areas in the US will be affected, resulting in savings of US$3,000 apiece. In the early 1990s, petrol stations that didn’t meet air quality standards were required to use the vapour recovery systems. The new ruling will help most drivers who find the fuel nozzle incompatible with their vehicles.