What is the primary environmental concern related to USTs?

The primary environmental concern related to underground storage tanks (USTs) is the risk of soil and groundwater contamination from leaks or spills. USTs are often used to store hazardous materials, such as gasoline, diesel, or other petroleum products. When these tanks develop leaks, the contents can seep into the surrounding soil and potentially reach the groundwater supply, which can have devastating effects on the environment and public health.

Groundwater is a vital resource for drinking water, irrigation, and various industrial processes. Contaminants from USTs can persist in the environment for long periods, making remediation processes challenging and costly. This contamination can lead to harmful substances being present in drinking water sources, affecting not only human health but also the surrounding ecosystem.

The other options, while relevant to environmental concerns in different contexts, do not represent the primary issue with USTs. Air pollution from vapor emissions can occur but is secondary to the direct impact of leaks on soil and groundwater. Noise pollution and habitat destruction are also important environmental issues, but they are not directly related to the operations or risks associated with USTs. Hence, the risk of soil and groundwater contamination is the most pressing concern regarding underground storage tanks.