The largest known source of lead emissions is leaded aviation fuel, most commonly used for small aircraft at small, regional airports.

A new study from Oregon State University has found that this fuel leads to more lead pollution in surrounding urban areas and neighborhoods, which can affect human health through poor air quality and soil contamination. The study looked at air quality surrounding regional airports near Hillsboro and Troutdale, two of the top three lead emitters in Oregon.

Alyssa Shiel, an associate professor in the College of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences at OSU, has been studying lead and heavy metal contaminants for nearly a decade. She joins us to share her findings and what concerns they raise.

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News Source : https://www.opb.org/article/2026/09/02/think-out-loud-oregon-state-university-finds-elevated-lead-regional-airports/