SACRAMENTO - The Air Resources Board (ARB) has announced today that it has settled 19 cases in the second half of 2013 involving air quality violations by companies manufacturing or selling consumer products that exceeded California’s standards for smog contributing gases known as volatile organic compounds. The products ranged from nail polish removers and bathroom cleaners to charcoal lighter materials and air fresheners. The violations amounted to over 11 tons of excess VOC emissions.

The amount collected went to the California Air Pollution Control Fund to support air quality projects and research to improve California’s air quality.

“Consumers unknowingly contribute to ozone formation when they purchase non-compliant items, which is why companies must sell products that adhere to ARB regulations that help protect air quality,” said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden.

The fines totaled $233,175. The five companies paying the highest amounts were:

• Bumble and bumble - $88,000
• Wal-Mart - $34,000
• Stoner- $16,500
• Alterna - $12,850
• Adoro & Triple Image - $12,000

The 14 other companies with fines totaling $69,825 were:

• Dave X Labs
• Lundmark Wax
• Strength of Nature
• PLZ Aeroscience
• Turtle Wax
• Solo Fragrances
• C&S Wholesale
• K Hall Studio
• Unelko
• Permatex(ITW)
• Sullivan & Sprayway
• Un-du Products
• Sorbie Distributing
• Aquiesse

Volatile organic compounds are gases released from solids and liquids, contributing to ozone formation once released into the air. These gases can be found in a number of products such as paints, wood preservatives, aerosol sprays, cleansers and disinfectants, air fresheners, stored fuels, automotive products, and more.

For more information on ARB’s consumer products regulations, see: https://www.arb.ca.gov/consprod/consprod.htm