Disclosed herein are monolith oxidation catalysts for the destruction of CO and volatile organic compounds (VOC) chemical emissions, in particular, the destruction of light alkane organic compounds. The catalysts contain high surface area refractory oxides of silica- and hafnia-doped zirconia and silica, or tin oxide or stabilized alumina; and at least one platinum group metals, in particular platinum metal, or a combination of platinum and palladium.