Epa Delays State Requirements For Smokestack Pm2.5 Emissions

摘要

EPA has finalized the second of three rules to implement fine particulate matter (PM2.5) limits under the new source review (NSR) program, issuing a May 8 regulation that does not require states to include PM from smokestacks, known as 'condensable' PM, when establishing enforceable limits in NSR permits until 2011. EPA delayed the requirement because of ongoing controversy over how to measure the emissions through a stack test. EPA says in the final rule that it is exempting condensible PM 'in response to significant comments on the variability of test methods' and is instead establishing a 'transition period' through 2011 'to allow us to assess the capabilities of the test methods and possibly revise them to improve performance.' Relevant documents are available on InsideEPA.com. See page 2 for details.