This panel is currently inactive.

The MTBE Blue Ribbon Panel was created by a Charter from the Clean Air Act Advisory Committee to provide independent advice and counsel to the Environmental Protection Agency on policy issues associated with the use of MTBE (methyl tertiary-butyl ether) and other oxygenates in gasoline.  The panel held meetings, analyzed issues, conducted reviews, made recommendations, and performed other activities necessary to meet its responsibilities.  The panel was requested to produce a final report by the Charter's expiration date of July 31, 1999.  The objectives of the panel's charter include: 

1. Examine the role of oxygenates in meeting the nation's goal of clean air;
2. Evaluate each product's efficiency in providing clean air benefits and the existence of alternatives;
3. Assess the behavior of oxygenates in the environment; 
4. Review any known health effects; and
5. Compare the cost of production and use, and each product's availability - both at present and in the future. 

The panel also studied the causes of ground water and drinking water contamination from motor vehicle fuels, and explored prevention and cleanup technologies for water and soil.

Membership

Contact Information

Chair
Mr. Daniel Greenbaum
President, Health Effects Institute
Cambridge, MA 02139

Technical Staff Contact
Karen Orehowsky
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Washington, DC 20001