Gasoline vapors contain cancer-causing agents and contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, or smog, which aggravates asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and other respiratory ailments.  Preventing these vapors from escaping to the air ensures a healthier environment for everyone in Massachusetts.

Stage II Vapor Recovery combines special nozzles, hoses and pumps to capture gasoline vapors that are displaced when vehicles are being refueled, thus preventing those fumes from entering the atmosphere. 

Massachusetts began requiring large dispensers of gasoline to install Stage II systems in 1991.  Today, all but the very smallest of facilities are required to have Stage II equipment in place.