Coal Tar Sealants
Prevention of storm water runoff pollutants from contaminating San Antonio’s river and creek channels goes beyond proper disposal of hazardous commercial waste materials and runoff pollutant best management practices. Mitigation also begins at the level of construction and selection of building materials which come into direct contact with rainfall runoff.
The City of San Antonio identifies coal tar pavement sealant products used in the construction of paved commercial lots as emitting specific environmental/health-hazardous chemical components whose long-term exposure via storm water runoff conveyance has been scientifically linked to increased incidence of certain adverse health impacts in human beings and aquatic invertebrates (insects and other small creatures that live in stream and lakes who are are particularly susceptible to contamination). Invertebrates are an important part to the food chain and are often monitored as indicators of stream quality. Pavement construction product retailers, applicators and paved property owners are strongly urged to learn more about the use and environmental/health impacts of these products in order to make conscious decisions to help reduce and prevent their application during construction of new or rehabilitated paved lots.
Downloadable Handout (PDF): Coal Tar Pavement Sealants and Storm Water Runoff.
More information on coal tar pavement sealants, impacts and product alternatives can be found by accessing the information tabs below: