Environmental Impacts of De-Icing Studied

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is studying the environmental impacts of aircraft de-icing fluid on the environment, specifically their relative toxicity to aquatic life. A recent study confirmed that additives are responsible for increased toxicity, according to the study published in Environmental Science & Technology, which compared nine different formulations and found that de-icing ingredients (ethylene glycol and propylene glycol) were not responsible for all increased toxicity pointing to the proprietary ingredients, known only to the manufacturer as culprits. Research in the 1990s linked toxicity to the proprietary additives. Despite this, products compared in the study revealed that manufacturers are still using toxic additives. "This study suggests that some de-icers -- products that remove snow and ice buildup – that are currently in use are safer for the environment than the de-icers used in the 1990's," said Steve Corsi, USGS scientist and lead author of this study. "But the toxicity profiles of anti-icers -- products that prevent ice and snow buildup -- have not changed significantly." The U.S. EPA acknowledges that there is environmental impact and is studying guidelines in preparation for regulatory action limiting airport runoff. Airports have imposed methods to reduce runoff and capture chemicals but not all have done so. Consequently, the impact varies depending on the airport and climate. "Certainly, the primary concern of an airline passenger is a safe arrival at their destination," said Corsi. "Airports have improved spent de-icer collection systems and airlines are considering application methods to reduce the amount of fluids applied. Ultimately, it will take a combined effort from fluid manufacturers, airlines, and airports to continue reducing the environmental impact of aircraft de-icers and anti-icers while maintaining the highest level of safety." More