"DEP saw an increase in emissions of volatile organic compounds from 2,800 tons in 2011 to 4,000 tons in 2012. Most of that increase came from compressor station engines, as well as from pumps and equipment leaks. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports that volatile organic compounds ""include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects."" Lung-damaging pollution is created by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds, especially during warmer times of the year. ""There are some significant emissions, as we expected when we decided to require the emission inventory,"" Mr. Rudawski said during a meeting of the Air Quality Technical Advisory Committee."
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