EPA Sees Trend Towards Cleaner Air

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is making the most recent data available on the state of the nation’s air quality. Air pollution impacts public health, the environment, and the Earth’s climate, and understanding these impacts are important priorities for the agency. EPA regulatory actions and voluntary efforts have led to cleaner cars, industries and consumer products, that in turn have contributed to improvements in the nation's air.

Since 1990, nationwide air quality has improved significantly for the six common air pollutants: ground-level ozone, particle pollution, lead, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide. Emissions of toxic air pollutants, such as benzene, have declined about 40 percent nationwide between 1990 and 2005.

These reductions are helping to improve public health by decreasing the number of emergency room visits, respiratory illnesses, and premature deaths. Positive impacts can also be seen in the environment, with regional haze decreasing.

Despite this progress, about 127 million Americans live in counties violating at least one of the national air quality standards. The agency has taken recent actions to tighten air quality standards to help ensure improvements in air quality for everyone.

EPA’s most recent evaluation of air pollution, Our Nation’s Air, Status and Trends Through 2008, presents trends in air quality measurements, analyzes national emissions from key industrial sectors and takes a look at the relationship between air quality and climate change.

More information: http://www.epa.gov/airtrends

Stonger Standards Set by EPA for Nitrogen Dioxide

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced a new national air quality standard for nitrogen dioxide (NO2). This new one-hour standard will protect millions of Americans from peak short-term exposures, which primarily occur near major roads. Short-term exposures to NO2 have been linked to impaired lung function and increased respiratory infections, especially in people with asthma.

“This new one-hour standard is designed to protect the air we breathe and reduce health threats for millions of Americans. For the first time ever, we are working to prevent short-term exposures in high risk NO2 zones like urban communities and areas near roadways,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “Improving air quality is a top priority for this EPA. We’re moving into the clean, sustainable economy of the 21st century, defined by expanded innovation, stronger pollution standards and healthier communities.”

The agency set the new one-hour standard for NO2 at a level of 100 parts per billion (ppb). EPA also is retaining the existing annual average standard of 53 ppb. NO2 is formed from vehicle, power plant and other industrial emissions, and contributes to the formation of fine particle pollution and smog. Earlier this month, EPA proposed to tighten the nation’s smog standards to protect the health of all Americans, especially children.

EPA is establishing new monitoring requirements in urban areas that will measure NO2 levels around major roads and across the community. Monitors must be located near roadways in cities with at least 500,000 residents. Larger cities and areas with major roadways will have additional monitors. Community-wide monitoring will continue in cities with at least 1 million residents.

Working with the states, EPA will site at least 40 monitors in locations to help protect communities that are susceptible and vulnerable to elevated levels of NO2.

The new standard will help protect Americans from NO2 exposures linked to respiratory illnesses that lead to emergency room visits and hospital admissions, particularly in at-risk populations such as children, the elderly, and asthmatics.

EPA expects to identify or designate areas not meeting the new standard, based on the existing community-wide monitoring network, by January 2012. New monitors must begin operating no later than January 1, 2013. When three years of air quality data are available from the new monitoring network, EPA intends to redesignate areas as appropriate.

More information: http://www.epa.gov/air/nitrogenoxides

Strict Smog Standards Proposed by EPA

The United States Environmental Protection Agency proposed on Thursday the strictest health standards to date for smog. Smog, also known as ground-level ozone, is linked to a number of serious health problems, ranging from aggravation of asthma to increased risk of premature death in people with heart or lung disease. Ozone can even harm healthy people who work and play outdoors. The agency is proposing to replace the standards set by the previous administration, which many believe were not protective enough of human health.

“EPA is stepping up to protect Americans from one of the most persistent and widespread pollutants we face. Smog in the air we breathe poses a very serious health threat, especially to children and individuals suffering from asthma and lung disease. It dirties our air, clouds our cities, and drives up our health care costs across the country,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “Using the best science to strengthen these standards is a long overdue action that will help millions of Americans breathe easier and live healthier.”

The agency is proposing to set the “primary” standard, which protects public health, at a level between 0.060 and 0.070 parts per million (ppm) measured over eight hours. Children are at the greatest risk from ozone, because their lungs are still developing, they are most likely to be active outdoors, and they are more likely than adults to have asthma. Adults with asthma or other lung diseases, and older adults are also sensitive to ozone.

EPA is also proposing to set a separate “secondary” standard to protect the environment, especially plants and trees. This seasonal standard is designed to protect plants and trees from damage occurring from repeated ozone exposure, which can reduce tree growth, damage leaves, and increase susceptibility to disease.

In September 2009 Administrator Jackson announced that EPA would reconsider the existing ozone standards, set at 0.075 ppm in March 2008. As part of its reconsideration, EPA conducted a review of the science that guided the 2008 decision, including more than 1,700 scientific studies and public comments from the 2008 rulemaking process. EPA also reviewed the findings of the independent Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee, which recommended standards in the ranges proposed today.

Depending on the level of the final standard, the proposal would yield health benefits between $13 billion and $100 billion. This proposal would help reduce premature deaths, aggravated asthma, bronchitis cases, hospital and emergency room visits and days when people miss work or school because of ozone-related symptoms. Estimated costs of implementing this proposal range from $19 billion to $90 billion.

Ground-level ozone forms when emissions from industrial facilities, power plants, landfills and motor vehicles react in the sun.

More information: http://www.epa.gov/groundlevelozone

EPA Region 2 Seeks Nominations for Environmental Quality Award

Do you know a person or an organization that works tirelessly to make the world a cleaner and healthier place? Then nominate them for a prestigious EPA Environmental Quality Award, which recognizes environmental leadership and the dedication of individuals and organizations that have gone above and beyond the call of duty in the past year to improve the environment in New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The awards recognize achievement in six categories:
• Individual Citizen

• Non-Profit Organization, Environmental or Community Group

• Environmental Education

• Business and Industry

• Federal, State, Local or Tribal Government or Agency

• Press and Media

Nominations for the awards are solicited from both within and outside EPA.

“As we approach the 40th anniversary of Earth Day and reflect on the tremendous environmental progress we have made, let’s also take a minute to think about those among us who have gone that extra mile to protect the environment and people’s health,” said Judith Enck, EPA Regional Administrator. "Whether they are local community members, tribal leaders, reporters or representatives of local government, they have used their creativity and boundless energy to make our world a better place.”

Nominations must be submitted by Monday, February 22, 2010. Award recipients will be honored at a ceremony in April at EPA's Manhattan offices.

For more information on award criteria, prior winners and nomination instructions, visit EPA's Environmental Quality Award Web page at http://www.epa.gov/region2/eqa. Self-nominations are welcome.

For more information, please contact Chris Sebastian, Public Affairs Division, at (212) 637-3597 or sebastian.chris@epa.gov.

EPA: Greenhouse Gases Threaten Public Health and the Environment

Science overwhelmingly shows greenhouse gas concentrations at unprecedented levels due to human activity

WASHINGTON – After a thorough examination of the scientific evidence and careful consideration of public comments, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today that greenhouse gases (GHGs) threaten the public health and welfare of the American people. EPA also finds that GHG emissions from on-road vehicles contribute to that threat.

GHGs are the primary driver of climate change, which can lead to hotter, longer heat waves that threaten the health of the sick, poor or elderly; increases in ground-level ozone pollution linked to asthma and other respiratory illnesses; as well as other threats to the health and welfare of Americans.

“These long-overdue findings cement 2009’s place in history as the year when the United States Government began addressing the challenge of greenhouse-gas pollution and seizing the opportunity of clean-energy reform,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “Business leaders, security experts, government officials, concerned citizens and the United States Supreme Court have called for enduring, pragmatic solutions to reduce the greenhouse gas pollution that is causing climate change. This continues our work towards clean energy reform that will cut GHGs and reduce the dependence on foreign oil that threatens our national security and our economy.”

EPA’s final findings respond to the 2007 U.S. Supreme Court decision that GHGs fit within the Clean Air Act definition of air pollutants. The findings do not in and of themselves impose any emission reduction requirements but rather allow EPA to finalize the GHG standards proposed earlier this year for new light-duty vehicles as part of the joint rulemaking with the Department of Transportation.

On-road vehicles contribute more than 23 percent of total U.S. GHG emissions. EPA’s proposed GHG standards for light-duty vehicles, a subset of on-road vehicles, would reduce GHG emissions by nearly 950 million metric tons and conserve 1.8 billion barrels of oil over the lifetime of model year 2012-2016 vehicles.

EPA’s endangerment finding covers emissions of six key greenhouse gases – carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons and sulfur hexafluoride – that have been the subject of scrutiny and intense analysis for decades by scientists in the United States and around the world.

Scientific consensus shows that as a result of human activities, GHG concentrations in the atmosphere are at record high levels and data shows that the Earth has been warming over the past 100 years, with the steepest increase in warming in recent decades. The evidence of human-induced climate change goes beyond observed increases in average surface temperatures; it includes melting ice in the Arctic, melting glaciers around the world, increasing ocean temperatures, rising sea levels, acidification of the oceans due to excess carbon dioxide, changing precipitation patterns, and changing patterns of ecosystems and wildlife.

President Obama and Administrator Jackson have publicly stated that they support a legislative solution to the problem of climate change and Congress’ efforts to pass comprehensive climate legislation. However, climate change is threatening public health and welfare, and it is critical that EPA fulfill its obligation to respond to the 2007 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that determined that greenhouse gases fit within the Clean Air Act definition of air pollutants.

EPA issued the proposed findings in April 2009 and held a 60-day public comment period. The agency received more than 380,000 comments, which were carefully reviewed and considered during the development of the final findings.

Information on EPA’s findings: http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/endangerment.html

View the news conference live on EPA's home page: http://www.epa.gov/

EPA to Regulate Green House Gas Emissions

On September 30th the EPA took the first measures to control green house gases from major sources such as power plants, refineries and factories. The new proposal will affect any plant producing at least 25,000 tons of GHG annually and will require the installation of best available technology (BAT) as well as increasing a facility's energy efficiency to decrease total output of emissions.


The EPA estimates large industrial sources are responsible for 70 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, the majority being carbon dioxide resulting from the burning of fossil fuels.

From Lisa P. Jackon, EPA Administrator:

"We have the tools and the technologies to move forward today, and we are using them."

"For the first time ever - the nations's largest sources of greenhouse gases will be required to report their emissions. That new rule will allow us to track approximately 85 percent of total US emissions while only requiring a small percentage of facilities - about 10,000 out of tens of millions of American businesses - to report. We will now know with greater accuracy how much carbon is polluting our atmosphere and where energy efficiency investments and new technologies may be particularly effective at reducing greenhouse gases."

"This is a common-sense measure, strategically tailored to facilities emitting more than 25,000 tons of carbon dioxide each year. And the results won't just be emissions cuts. It will also promote emerging innovations and accelerate the use of efficient, clean technologies across the entire economy. In short, it allows us to do what the Clean Air Act does best - reduce emissions for better health, drive technology innovation for a better economy, and protect the environment for a better future - all without placing an undue burden on the businesses that make up the better part of our economy."

"We have carefully targeted our efforts to exempt the vast majority of small and medium-sized busineses. We know the corner coffee shop is no place to look for meaningful carbon reductions."

Greenhouse Gas Reporting System - It's Coming in 2010

The EPA has finalized their program for reporting GHG emissions from facilities that emit large quantities of the polluting gasses. According to the agency, 85% of the country's greenhouse gas emissions come from about 10,000 facilities. The program will collect data and allow companies to track their own emissions, as well as compare them to other businesses and provide help to effectively cut future emissions.

Reporting begins January 1, 2010, with the first annual report due in 2011.

Click here for more information.

EPA to Reconsider Smog Standards

The Environmental Protection Agency announced they will review national smog standards set in 2008 to make sure they are scientifically grounded, as well as protective of human health. Standards to be reconsidered include both primary and secondary standards that include protecting public health, especially children and people with asthma; and the environment. The EPA will take into consideration scientific studies, public comments and the independent findings from the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee, all of which were involved with the original rulemaking.

Proposed revisions will be issued by December 2009, with a final decision coming by August 2010.

Fast Links to Emission Standards

Need to find out the Tier 4 emissions standards for Non-road engines - FAST?

No problem - here's an EPA link that gives you easy access to all federal regulation emission charts for on-road and non-road engines and vehicles: Emission Standards Reference Guide.

Included in the guide section are tables and support information for the following:

- Light-Duty Vehicles, Trucks and Motocycles

- Heavy-Duty Engines and Vehicles

- Non-road Engines and Vehicles

- Fuel Sufur Standards

Other information includes:

-Basic information and overview

- Vehicle Weight Classifications

- Glossary of terms

- Related Links

EPA Resources for Air Quality Compliance

Did you know that the EPA has an extensive online document containing resource links to policies, guidance training, guidebooks, web sites, fact sheets, and more to help regional, state and tribal governments with compliance? The Compliance Assurance Resources Compendium for the FY 2008-2010 National Enforcement and Compliance Priorities offers "compliance assistance, monitoring and enforcement tools to support implementation of performance-based strategies".

The Compendium includes both clean water and clean air information. Resources for Clean Air can be found on pages 13 to 22 and include links to regulations, Title V policies, regional EPA offices, and many other support materials.

Click here to access the EPA Compendium

Austin May Become Non-attainment Region

Tuesday, August 18th, the Mayor of Austin, air quality officials and environmental groups urged the city's residents to decrease energy use and motor vehicle trips in an effort to control pollution. The city has two months to clean up its act before the EPA designates Austin as an "ozone non-attainment region".

City officials are worried that the EPA designation will have a negative impact on economic growth, darkening Austin's green image.

Ozone levels can be lowered by decreasing energy production and usage, as well as restricting the burning of fossil fuels (fewer road trips). When ozone levels are high it can cause inflammation of the lungs and respiratory infections.

NO2 Standards

The EPA recently held two public hearings concerning revisions to the country's NO2 Standards. Revisions to the original ruling are based on recent science and health studies showing the effects of NO2. The hearings were held August 3rd in Arlington, VA and August 6th in Los Angeles, CA. On August 10th a Science Advisory Board Meeting was also held.

To read the proposed regulation, visit: Primary National Ambient Air Quality Standard for Nitrogen Dioxide; Proposed Rule

Help with Regulations: How Air Quality Standards Affect Diesel and Natural Gas Engine Emissions

Just about everyone is confused when it comes to air quality regulations and how they affect diesel and natural gas standby and prime power generators. Who determines the regulations? Where are they posted? And what support is there for answering questions? Here's a brief overview on the "who, where and what" of air quality rulings and the agencies involved with compliance.

EPA
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets the standards for federal regulations based on the national Clean Air Act and its amendments. New rulings to the act are regularly reviewed and passed into law. The EPA page for Laws, Regulations, Guidance and Dockets can be accessed at www.epa.gov/lawsregs/.

When it comes to regulations involving stationary engine emissions, all dealers and end-users of prime and emergency generators need to be familiar with the following rulings set by the EPA. These standards reduce emissions of nitrous oxide (NOx), particulate matter (PM), hydrocarbons (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) from new and existing prime power and standby engines:

Standards of Performance for Stationary Compression Ignition Internal Combustion Engines
(various deadlines determined by engine size and model year)
- To comply, diesel prime power and emergency engines may need to be retrofitted with diesel particulate filters (DPF), diesel oxidation catalysts (DOC) and/or selective catalytic reduction (SCR).

Stationary Spark Ignition Internal Combustion Engines and National Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engines
- To comply, natural gas engines may need to be retrofitted with oxidation catalysts (OC) or three-way catalysts (TWC).

Control of Emissions from Nonroad Diesel Engines (Tier 4 Regulations)
- To comply, diesel engines may need to be retrofitted with diesel particulate filters (DPF), diesel oxidation catalysts (DOC) and/or selective catalytic reduction (SCR).

National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engines (RICE NESHAP)
- To comply, diesel and natural gas engines may need to be retrofitted with diesel particulate filters (DPF), diesel oxidation catalysts (DOC) or oxidation catalysts (OC).

Operating Permits – Title V


EPA - Regions
The ten regional offices of the EPA are responsible for implementing the Agency's programs. Contact your Regional Office directly for answers to your regulatory questions.

Region 1 - CT, RI, MA, ME, NH, VT
Phone: (617) 918-1111
Toll free within Region 1: (888) 372-7341

Region 2 - NY, NJ, PR, VI
Phone: (212) 637-3000

Region 3 - PA, WV, VA, DE, MD, DC
Phone: (215) 814-5000
Toll free: (800) 438-2474

Region 4 - KY, TN, MS, AL, GA, FL, SC, NC
Phone: (404) 562-9900
Toll free: (800) 241-1754

Region 5 - MN, WI, IL, IN, OH, MI
Phone: (312) 353-2000
Toll free within Region 5: (800) 621-8431

Region 6 - NM, TX, OK, AR, LA
Phone: (214) 665-2200
Toll free within Region 6: (800) 887-6063

Region 7 - NE, KS, IA, MO
Phone: (913) 551-7003
Toll free: (800) 223-0425

Region 8 - MT, ND, SD, WY, CO, UT
Phone: (303) 312-6312
Toll free: (800) 227-8917

Region 9 - CA, NV, AZ, HI, Guam, Trust Territories, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands
Phone: (415) 947-8000
(866) EPA-WEST (toll free in Region 9)

Region 10 - WA, OR, ID, AK
Phone: (206) 553-1200
Toll free: (800) 424-4372

Click here to find regulatory information related to your EPA region.


EPA - State Agencies
Each state has its own EPA agency. Contact your local agency for air quality information, funding and permitting info related to your state. To find your state EPA, click here.


California Air Resources Board (ARB)
Considered the most powerful state agency, the California Air Resources Board or ARB often sets the standard for the rest of the country. Established in 1967, ARB has the ability to pass legislature independent of the federal EPA, often finding innovative and progressive approaches to reducing emissions and improving air quality. Click here to visit ARB's website.

Unlike other states, ARB has 35 regional AQMDs (Air Quality Management Districts), each with the ability to pass their own regulations. Click here for an interactive map of California's Air Districts and Counties.

Regulations passed by ARB and its individual AQMDs take precedence over EPA rulings in the state of California. All prime power and standby diesel and natural gas engines operating within the state need to check with their regional AQMD concerning regulations and required permitting.

For more information on federal and state regulations, request a free copy of CleanAIR Systems' digital Emissions Guidebook.

EPA Names Top Green Power Partners

Green power partners generate electricity on-site from renewable resources such as solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, biogas and low-impact hydropower

The EPA has recognized the top 20 organizations participating the Green Power Partnership program for the most green electricity produced on-site. The combined partners generate and consume over 736 million kilowatt hours of green power annually - the annual equivalent of 61,000 American homes.

The top five partners are:

Kimberly-Clark Corp.

Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts

City of San Diego

San Jose/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant

CalPortland

"These companies are leading a nationwide move to the clean energy economy, one that can create millions of jobs, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, and protect against global climate change," says Lisa P. Jackson, EPA's Administrator. "Our Green Power Partnership leaders are setting the standards for our clean energy future."

EPA works with over 1,100 organizations to voluntarily purchase green power to reduce the environmental impact of conventionally generated electricity. Total, Green Power Partners are buying over 16 billion kilowatt hours of green power annually, equal to the CO2 emissions from electricity used by 1.6 million American homes.

Cornell Study on Air Quality During Beijing Olympics

A recent study conducted by Cornell University and funded by the EPA and the Jeffrey Sean Lehman Fund for Scholarly Exchange with China, has found that the air quality in Beijing during the 2008 Olympics was significantly lower than air samples taking in 2007.

Researchers collected samples before and during the games, tracking emissions at two elevations from a building in the center of the city, as well as from vehicles in various areas of Beijing. Prior to the Olympics, the Chinese government enforced strict regulations, barring 300,000 heavy-emission vehicles (trucks) from the road and alternating drive days for cars. This resulted in approximately 2 million vehicles being taken off the road. Other measures included restricting construction and decreasing the use of coal-fired power plants for electricity.

The study concluded that due to the enforced restrictions car emissions of black carbon were reduced by 33 percent in 2008 over the 2007 readings, carbon dioxide decreased 47 percent, and ultra-fine carbon-based particles were decreased by 78 percent.

The mission of the study is to help advise local Chinese regulators and policymakers to adopt long-term air quality emission controls. The study was published July 11 in the journal of Atmospheric Environment.

EPA Recognizes Companies for Reducing GHG Emissions

Three partners in the EPA's Climate Leaders program have been recognized for meeting greenhouse gas emissions goals. Exelon Corp., Public Service Enterprise Group and Raytheon Co. have all found new, more efficient methods to reduce GHG. Utilizing cleaner sources of energy, reduced energy consumption, increased production of renewable energy and retiring older equipment, the companies met their reduction goals set through participating in the Climate Leaders program.

From EPA Administrator, Lisa P. Jackson, "We congratulate the members of the partnership upon meeting their goals to confront climate change. EPA's Climate Leaders are some of the largest and most competitive companies in manufacturing, finance, information technology and other major sectors of the economy. They're proving that they can be both industry leaders, and leaders in the fight against climate change."

With major partners such as Caterpillar, Mack Trucks Inc., and Sun Microsystems, program partners represent a broad range of industry sectors, with a combined revenue equal to twelve percent of the US gross domestic product. The EPA estimates 50 million tons of CO2 per year will be prevented through the reductions made by Climate Leaders Partners - the equivalent of nine million vehicles.

For information on the program and a list of partners with their goals, go to www.epa.gov/climateleaders.

1st School Bus Retroffited Under the ARRA

California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the San Diego Air Pollution Control Board (SDAPCB)announced that the first school bus in the country to be retroffited with emissions control technology under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) with economic stimulus funding awarded by EPA, was recently unveiled.

Funding was made available to the San Diego Air Unified School District to help clean up the emissions of 10 school buses.

"The state and its school children thank the Obama Administration for sending this funding our way to clean up older, dirty diesel school buses," said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. "San Diego officials, in particular, wasted no time in parlaying this money into real, on-the-ground projects that are providing jobs and protecting children's lungs at the same time."

Environmental Camp for 8th Graders

In its 16th year, the EPA's Student Environmental Development Program (SEDP) gives middle school students an opportunity to learn life skills and sustainable environmental practices. The occupation-like program also allows the participating 8th graders to earn summer cash.

This year the campers were recruited from 15 Philadephia public schools. They report to work at the EPA's downtown Philly office, Monday - Friday. The students receive classroom training along with practical experience through outdoor field trips, learning by doing hands-on lessons in the field.

Larry Brown, EPA's environmental education program manager, says "The SEDP program is a great alternative for students who can't afford to go to camp for the summer or may not like traditional camps. By the time these students finish the program, they'll be good public speakers, leaders in their schools, and informed environmental adovates."

The EPA camp challenges students to discover innovative ways to educate and empower their community to take action on environmental issues that may lead to health concerns. For more information on the summer environmental program, go to http://www.epa.gov/region3/ee/sedp.htm

How Does Roadway Air Pollution Effect Children's Health

The EPA announced on July 7th that the agency would be entering into a joint study with the University of Michigan to determine the effect of air pollution on America's children who live near heavily traveled roadways. Costing $1.4 million, the study is being funded through the EPA's Science to Achieve Results program.

Researchers will study:
- types of pollutants common to roadway traffic

- ways that people are exposed to pollutants

- the extent of exposure

- types and severity of the health effects created by exposure to air pollutants

It is estimated that 45 million people in the USA live within 300 feet of a four-lane highway, airport facility or railroad. The study being conducted in Detroit, will also address the issue of air pollution leading to more severe asthma attacks in children under 14 years of age.

Click here for more info on this study.

GHG Waiver Granted to CA by EPA

EPA is granting California’s waiver request enabling the state to enforce its greenhouse gas emissions standards for new motor vehicles, beginning with the current model year. Using the law and science as its guide, EPA has taken this action to tackle air pollution and protect human health.

“This decision puts the law and science first. After review of the scientific findings, and another comprehensive round of public engagement, I have decided this is the appropriate course under the law,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “This waiver is consistent with the Clean Air Act as it’s been used for the last 40 years and supports the prerogatives of the 13 states and the District of Columbia who have opted to follow California’s lead. More importantly, this decision reinforces the historic agreement on nationwide emissions standards developed by a broad coalition of industry, government and environmental stakeholders earlier this year.”

The first California waiver request was made in December 2005 and was subsequently denied in March 2008. This previous decision was based on an interpretation of the Clean Air Act finding that California did not have a need for its greenhouse gas emission standards to meet “compelling and extraordinary conditions.”

Shortly after taking office in January, President Barack Obama directed EPA to assess the appropriateness of denying the waiver. EPA received a letter from California on January 21, 2009, raising several issues for Administrator Jackson to review regarding the denial.

Last month, President Obama announced a first-ever national policy aimed at both increasing fuel economy and reducing greenhouse gas pollution for all new cars and trucks sold in the United States. The new standards would cover model years 2012-2016. When the national program takes effect, California has committed to allowing automakers who show compliance with the national program to also be deemed in compliance with state requirements.

With the decision to grant the California waiver, EPA returns to its traditional legal interpretation of the Clean Air Act that has been applied consistently during the past 40 years. EPA finds that California continues to have a need for its motor vehicle emissions program, including the greenhouse gas standards. EPA also finds that the California program meets legal requirements regarding the protectiveness of public health and welfare as well as technological feasibility.

EPA based its decision on an extensive record of scientific and technical evidence. As part of the reconsideration, EPA revisited the prior decision documents and record. The agency also opened a new comment period, including public hearings.

The Clean Air Act gives EPA the authority to allow California to adopt its own emission standards for new motor vehicles due to the seriousness of the state’s air pollution challenges. There is a long-standing history of EPA granting waivers to the state of California.

Information, including decision documents: http://www.epa.gov/otaq/climate/ca-waiver.htm

EPA Proposes More Stringent Standards for NO2

For the first time in more than 35 years, EPA has proposed to strengthen the nation’s nitrogen dioxide (NO2) air quality standard that protects public health. The proposed changes reflect the latest science on the health effects of exposure to NO2, which is formed by emissions from cars, trucks, buses, power plants, and industrial facilities and can lead to respiratory disease.

“We’re updating these standards to build on the latest scientific data and meet changing health protection needs,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “In addition to limiting annual average concentrations, we’re preventing high NO2 levels for shorter periods of time and adding stronger monitoring in areas near roadways, where the highest levels of NO2 are often found. This will fill gaps in the current standard and provide important additional protections where they are needed most.”

EPA’s proposed revisions apply to the primary NO2 standard and would:

· establish, for the first time, a one-hour NO2 standard at a level between 80 – 100 parts per billion (ppb),
· retain the current annual average NO2 standard of 53 ppb,
· add NO2 monitoring within 50 meters of major roads in cities with at least 350,000 residents, and
· continue monitoring “area-wide” NO2 concentrations in cities with at least 1 million residents.

These proposed standards and additional monitoring requirements would protect public health by reducing people’s exposure to high, short-term concentrations of NO2, which generally occur near roadways. The proposal would also ensure that area-wide NO2 concentrations remain below levels that can cause public health problems.

Current scientific evidence links short-term NO2 exposures, ranging from 30 minutes to 24 hours, with increased respiratory effects, especially in people with asthma. These effects can lead to increased visits to emergency departments and hospital admissions for respiratory illnesses, particularly in at-risk populations such as children, the elderly, and asthmatics.

EPA first set standards for NO2 in 1971, establishing both a primary standard to protect health and a secondary standard to protect the public welfare at 53 ppb, averaged annually. Annual average NO2 concentrations have decreased by more than 40 percent since 1980. All areas in the United States are well below the current (1971) NO2 standards with annual averages ranging from approximately 10 – 20 ppb.

EPA will accept public comments for 60 days after the proposal is published in the Federal Register. The agency will hold two public hearings in August 2009: one in Los Angeles and one in the Washington, D.C. area. EPA will provide details on the public hearings in a separate notice issued later this summer. EPA must issue a final decision on the NO2 standard by Jan. 22, 2010.

Details about the proposal: http://www.epa.gov/air/nitrogenoxides

EPA Energy Guidebook Helps Reduce GHG

EPA has released a first-of-its-kind guide to help states save money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by adopting clean energy practices in their facilities, operations and vehicle fleets.

States spend about 10 percent of their operating budgets on energy bills, yet these costs can be greatly reduced by implementing well-designed energy management and greenhouse gas reduction programs. For example, in New York, where a 2001 executive order directed state agencies to reduce energy consumption by 35 percent by 2010 relative to 1990 levels, the state saved $54.4 million in energy costs from energy efficiency improvements between fiscal years 2001-2002 and 2003-2004.

EPA’s Clean Energy Lead by Example Guide helps states identify key strategies, resources and tools best-suited to their energy needs. Each strategy has been tested and is proven to be cost effective.

The guide was created as part of EPA’s State Climate and Clean Energy Program, which assists states in developing and implementing clean energy policies and climate change solutions.

To download the guide and find out more about the program: http://epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-programs/state-and-local/index.html

$10M from EPA for Climate Change Showcase Communities

EPA is announcing the availability of up to $10 million in first of its kind, “Climate Showcase Communities” grants to local and tribal governments to establish and implement climate change initiatives that will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The agency expects to award approximately 30 cooperative agreements, each one ranging from $100,000 to $500,000. Approximately 5 percent of the funds ($500,000) are set-asides for tribal governments.

“Ending climate change and moving to a sustainable, clean energy future begins on the ground in our communities,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “We’re offering a helping hand to local areas that are leading the way in confronting climate change, and a call to action for anyone concerned about making a difference where they live. We can cut energy costs and reduce harmful emissions at the local level, and build a model for fighting climate change in every community.”

EPA requests proposals from local governments, federally-recognized Indian tribal governments, and inter-tribal consortia to create replicable models of sustainable community action, generate cost-effective greenhouse gas reductions, and improve the environmental, economic, public health, and social conditions in a community. A 50 percent cost-share is required for recipients, with the exception of tribal governments and intertribal consortia which are exempt from matching requirements under this grant.

This grant program is administered by EPA’s Local Climate and Energy Program, an initiative to assist local and tribal governments to identify, implement, and track policies and programs that reduce greenhouse gas emissions within their operations and surrounding communities. Over the course of the grant program, EPA will offer training and technical support to grant recipients, and share lessons learned with communities across the nation.

Proposals are due by July 22, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. EDT. Grants are expected to be awarded in January 2010.

Additional grant information: http://epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-programs/state-and-local/showcase.html

WildEarth Guardians Sues EPA

EPA Sued for Failing to Limit Interstate Transport of Smog and Soot in Six Western States

WildEarth Guardians has filed suit in federal court to force the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to limit interstate transport of air pollution and safeguard public health in the American West.

“The EPA has been dragging its feet at the expense of clean air in the West,” said Jeremy Nichols, Climate and Energy Program Director for WildEarth Guardians. “For the sake of our health, we need the EPA to follow through and keep air pollution in check.”

In 2005, the EPA issued a formal finding that all 50 states had failed to adopt clean air plans that protect neighboring downwind states from ozone air pollution, the key ingredient of smog, and microscopic particulate matter pollution, also known as soot. Four years later, the western states of California, Colorado, Idaho, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Oregon still lack approved plans to limit interstate transport of air pollution.

Under the Clean Air Act, the EPA was required to adopt regulations to force the states of California, Colorado, Idaho, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Oregon to limit interstate transport of pollution by 2007. As of 2009, the EPA has yet to take action to clear the air.

“Clean air is long overdue,” said Nichols. “With states failing to take charge, the EPA needs to make sure we have the pollution controls in place, not just to protect ourselves locally, but to protect our downwind neighbors.”

In its lawsuit, WildEarth Guardians is challenging the failure of the EPA to force western states to limit interstate transport of pollution. The lawsuit comes as mounting evidence shows that interstate transport of air pollution in the American West is rising. Already, many areas are suffering from harmful levels of ozone air pollution. Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and other cities have violated federal clean air standards limiting ozone. However the problem is spreading, even affecting rural communities.

Recent modeling projects that by 2018, all or portions of 16 western states are expected to exceed ozone air pollution limits. The modeling, prepared for the Western Regional Air Partnership, which is associated with the Western Governors’ Association, projects ozone levels will be highest over much of the Southwestern United States and Southern Idaho.

Last December, WildEarth Guardians filed a petition with the EPA calling on the agency to prioritize developing regional solutions to tackle ozone air pollution in the American West, and force 16 western states to enact stronger clean air plans that protect neighboring downwind states.

While many sources of air pollution contribute to interstate transport, the largest sources in the West include coal-fired power plants, vehicle tailpipes, and oil and gas drilling operations.

Today’s lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California in San Francisco.

WildEarth Guardians is a nonprofit dedicated to protecting and restoring the American West and is based in Santa Fe, New Mexico with offices in Denver, Phoenix, Bozeman, and Oakland, CA. For a copy of the lawsuit, contact Jeremy Nichols, jnichols@wildearthguardians.org.

WildEarth Guardians - original press release

New Online Forum Promotes Transparency and Openness in Government

(Washington, D.C. – May 29, 2009) The eRulemaking Program, a federal-wide E-Government project led by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, has launched Regulations.gov Exchange. Regulations.gov is the one-stop, online source for citizens to search, view and comment on regulations issued by the U.S. government.

In the past, the paper process limited the public’s ability to find rules and comment. Today, the public can explore new features for Regulations.gov, post opinions, engage directly with other users and with eRulemaking program staff. Regulations.gov Exchange will be open for public participation from May 21 – July 21, 2009.

“We’re always looking for new, innovative ways to engage the public, and get more people involved in the regulatory process,” said John Moses, EPA’s eRulemaking program director. “Every member of the public can post their opinion directly on Regulation.gov Exchange without boundaries, shaping and improving Regulations.gov.”

Regulations.gov Exchange promotes public engagement by actively involving citizens in the development of a major government-wide Web site, and uses new technologies that enhance the transparency of government decision-making. The public feedback will shape on-going updates of Regulations.gov, explore the impact of emerging Internet technologies on the federal rulemaking process, foster government-citizen collaboration, and promote government transparency and openness.

In 2008, Regulations.gov received more than 110 million hits and 450,000 comments on new or existing regulations. It holds 2 million documents from more than 160 federal entities.

For more information: http://www.regulations.gov/exchange

EPA, PAPA and E-POD

EPA visits Wyoming to view natural gas development and measures to reduce air pollution such as CleanAIR’s E-POD installed on seven drill rigs in PAPA.

Santa Fe, NM – May 26, 2009 – US EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson visited Wyoming’s natural gas development fields on May 21st. Her mission was to see first-hand the unique air pollution problems that affect rural Wyoming and how the issue of reducing pollutants, such as NOx, is being addressed. With the installation in late 2008 of emissions control technology on seven diesel generators located in the Pinedale Anticline Project Area (PAPA), CleanAIR Systems has become part of the Wyoming air pollution solution.

The new E-POD™ (Emissions Permitting Operational Device) combines several technologies to reduce air pollutants of NOx, particulate matter, hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide from the emissions of large-scale diesel generators. NOx is precursor of ozone and one of the key issues addressed by Administrator Jackson on her recent visit.

Ozone levels usually increase during winter months, contributing to respiratory problems and smog. However, ozone levels in Wyoming have increased above normal levels with the increase in drilling. According to the Associated Press, the state issued six ozone advisories for southwest Wyoming in 2008. The same area exceeded federal pollution standards three times that year. On some days ozone levels in the rural prairies of Wyoming can be as high as some cities.

Utilizing state-of-the-art technology developed by CleanAIR Systems, seven E-POD™s have been installed on three drill rigs in PAPA to reduce diesel emissions, thereby saving tons of air pollutants each year from being dumped into the environment.

Emissions reduced by current operating E-PODs:
- 103 tons of NOx per year
- 24.5 tons of carbon monoxide (CO) per year
- 4.9 tons of hydrocarbons (HC) per year
- 0.4 tons of particulate matter (PM) per year

Emissions Equivalencies:
- The NOx reduction alone from just these three sites is the equivalent of taking 18,899 gasoline cars off the road for one year.
- The carbon monoxide reduction is equal to the annual CO emissions produced by 528 cars.
- And the 4.9 tons of hydrocarbons reduced by the E-POD™s is equivalent to the annual hydrocarbon emissions of 1,436 cars.

Working in conjunction with Caterpillar dealer Wyoming Machinery Company, the custom-engineered E-PODs™ were installed between September 2008 and January 2009, and immediately reduced NOx emissions by more than 90%.

Union of Concerned Scientists: EPA Restores Science to Air Quality Standards

Statement by Francesca Grifo, Union of Concerned Scientists

WASHINGTON - May 21 - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa Jackson today announced the agency is reversing controversial changes to how science is used to set air pollution standards.

The Clean Air Act requires the EPA to establish National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for harmful pollutants using the best available science. For decades, EPA staff scientists worked with the independent Clean Air Science Advisory Committee to review the latest studies and recommend appropriate standards.

The Bush administration changed this process, eliminating the independent assessment by scientific experts and injecting political determinations much earlier in the decision-making process. Under the Bush rules, high-level political appointees were involved from the start, working with staff scientists to draft a document containing "policy-relevant science" that "reflects the agency's views" that replaced the independent "staff paper" agency scientists had previously produced. The Clean Air Science Advisory Committee strongly criticized the Bush rules.

The following is a statement from Francesca Grifo, senior scientist and director of UCS's Scientific Integrity Program:

"Restoring science as a foundation for setting air pollution standards is a return to reason. While policy decisions are based on a variety of factors, public health suffers when politics are allowed to trump the best available science.

"The Bush administration's rule changes allowed the EPA to circumvent and squelch input from its own scientists and advisory committees. But the agency needs independent science to protect public health and safety.

"Now the EPA once again will fully utilize its scientists in setting air pollution standards. It's heartening to see that the Obama administration is taking concrete steps to back its strong rhetoric about restoring scientific integrity to federal agencies."

EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson Brings Science, Transparency Back to Air Quality Standards Decisions

Washington, D.C. – May 21, 2009) Stressing the importance of scientific integrity and transparency, EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson today called for key changes to the process for reviewing National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) to protect human health and the environment.

“It’s essential that the best science and the greatest transparency inform air quality standards that prevent illness and save lives,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “These changes will help us bring a greater rigor and openness to our standard-setting process and improve the scientific basis for our standards.”

EPA sets NAAQS for six key pollutants known as “criteria pollutants” that are commonly found across the United States. They are ozone, particle pollution (particulate matter), lead, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide.

EPA is reinstating the role of a key policy document created by agency scientists that contains staff analyses of options for the administrator to consider when setting air quality standards. This document, known as a “staff paper,” will be made available to the agency’s science advisors and the public prior to the initiation of formal rulemaking.

The previous administration replaced the so-called staff paper with an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking outlining potential options for air quality standards in the Federal Register.

In a separate letter to the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee (CASAC), Administrator Jackson reaffirmed the committee’s role in guiding the agency to make scientifically sound decisions. The CASAC was established by the Clean Air Act to provide the administrator with independent technical advice on national air quality standards.

In addition to restoring the policy document, Administrator Jackson is retaining previous changes that improved the review process. Those include a public workshop early in the NAAQS review, and the restructuring of key science and risks documents so they are more concise and focused on key scientific and policy issues. Jackson also asked staff to consult with scientific experts in other federal agencies that have responsibility for public health and environmental protection early in the review of each air quality standard.

More information: http://www.epa.gov/ttn/naaqs/review.html

Obama Announces National Fuel Efficiency Policy

WASHINGTON, DC – President Obama – for the first time in history – has set in motion a new national policy aimed at both increasing fuel economy and reducing greenhouse gas pollution for all new cars and trucks sold in the United States. The new standards, covering model years 2012-2016, and ultimately requiring an average fuel economy standard of 35.5 mpg in 2016, are projected to save 1.8 billion barrels of oil over the life of the program with a fuel economy gain averaging more than 5 percent per year and a reduction of approximately 900 million metric tons in greenhouse gas emissions. This would surpass the CAFE law passed by Congress in 2007 required an average fuel economy of 35 mpg in 2020.

“In the past, an agreement such as this would have been considered impossible,” said President Obama. “That is why this announcement is so important, for it represents not only a change in policy in Washington, but the harbinger of a change in the way business is done in Washington. As a result of this agreement, we will save 1.8 billion barrels of oil over the lifetime of the vehicles sold in the next five years. And at a time of historic crisis in our auto industry, this rule provides the clear certainty that will allow these companies to plan for a future in which they are building the cars of the 21st century.”

This groundbreaking policy delivers on the President’s commitment to enact more stringent fuel economy standards and represents an unprecedented collaboration between the Department of Transportation (DOT), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the world’s largest auto manufacturers, the United Auto Workers, leaders in the environmental community, the State of California, and other state governments.

“The President brought all stakeholders to the table and came up with a plan to help the auto industry, safeguard consumers, and protect human health and the environment for all Americans,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “A supposedly ‘unsolvable’ problem was solved by unprecedented partnerships. As a result, we will keep Americans healthier, cut tons of pollution from the air we breathe, and make a lasting down payment on cutting our greenhouse gas emissions.”

“A clear and uniform national policy is not only good news for consumers who will save money at the pump, but this policy is also good news for the auto industry which will no longer be subject to a costly patchwork of differing rules and regulations,” said Carol M. Browner, Assistant to the President for Energy and Climate Change. “This an incredible step forward for our country and another way for Americans to become more energy independent and reduce air pollution.”

A national policy on fuel economy standards and greenhouse gas emissions is welcomed by the auto manufacturers because it provides regulatory certainty and predictability and includes flexibilities that will significantly reduce the cost of compliance. The collaboration of federal agencies also allows for clearer rules for all automakers, instead of three standards (DOT, EPA and a state standard).

“President Obama is uniting federal and state governments, the auto industry, labor unions and the environmental community behind a program that will provide for the biggest leap in history to make automobiles more fuel efficient,” said Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “This program lessens our dependence on oil and is good for America and the planet.”

See original news release

EPA Greenhouse Gas Calculator

Check out this handy calculator from the EPA to help your company devise a greenhouse gas reduction strategy and set GHG reduction targets. You can use the calculator to find out the equivalent CO2 savings for:

- gallons of gasoline consumed

- kilowatt-hours of electricity

- therms of natural gas

- passenger vehicles per year

You can also determine the equivalency for other greenhouse gases. Or play around with the fill-in-the-blank calculator at the bottom of the page, with fun facts such as:

"Greenhouse gas emissions avoided by recycling (blank) tons of waste instead of sending it to the landfill"

Find the Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator here: http://www.epa.gov/solar/energy-resources/calculator.html

New EPA Administrator to Tour Wyoming Energy Production Sites

U.S. EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson is scheduled to join Gov. Dave Freudenthal in a tour of several major energy production regions in Wyoming from May 20 through May 21. Gov. Freudenthal invited Administrator Jackson to the region and will show the Administrator a wind farm near Cheyenne, the Black Thunder Coal Mine in the Powder River Basin, and a natural-gas drilling operation in Pinedale.

CleanAIR Systems has installations of emission control products on seven engines in the Pinedale area to reduce NOx, hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide.

Statement by Lisa P. Jackson

Statement of Lisa P. Jackson
Administrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Hearing on American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009
Committee on Energy and Commerce
U.S. House of Representatives
April 22, 2009

Washington, D.C. – April 22, 2009) Chairman Waxman, Chairman-Emeritus Dingell, Ranking Minority Member Barton, and members of the Committee, thank you for inviting me to testify about the draft American Clean Energy and Security Act. Let me begin by commending this Committee for embarking on the serious, difficult, and essential work of crafting comprehensive, detailed energy legislation and moving it through an open, careful process in which representatives hold hearings, make amendments, and cast votes. EPA is grateful for your work.

When President Obama was inaugurated ninety-two days ago, the United States found itself in the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. So the President worked with Congress to craft the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which he signed into law sixty-four days ago. That law is now creating good jobs for Americans. Thanks to the Act, EPA is putting Americans to work overhauling clean-water systems, restoring and redeveloping polluted properties, installing clean-air equipment on diesel engines, and cleaning up leaking underground fuel tanks.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act also injected an essential shot of adrenaline into the American clean energy sector. Economic recovery would not have been possible without that immediate relief. But President Obama has leveled with the American people: Lasting economic recovery will come only when the federal government looks beyond the quick fix and invests in building the advanced energy industries that will help restore America’s economic health over the long term.

So President Obama has called on Congress to pass forward-looking energy legislation.

That legislation should create, here in America, millions of the clean-energy jobs that cannot be shipped overseas. It should catapult American innovators past the foreign competitors who, due to aggressive investments by their governments, now enjoy a head start in the advanced energy technologies that represent the new Internet revolution, the new biotech wave. It should reduce our dependence on oil and strengthen America’s energy security. And it should start, in a real and tangible way, to tackle greenhouse-gas pollution, which threatens to leave to our children and grandchildren a diminished, less prosperous, less secure world.

Twenty-two days ago, Chairmen Waxman and Markey released draft legislation that strives to accomplish those goals.

The American Clean Energy and Security Act would introduce a clean energy requirement for American electric utilities and new energy efficiency programs for American buildings. Those initiatives aim to create good American jobs that cannot be shipped overseas.

The legislation would launch programs to promote electric vehicles and deploy technologies for capturing, pipelining, and geologically storing carbon dioxide produced at coal-fueled power plants. Those incentives aim to help American companies make up for lost time in the advanced energy industries that will be to the 2010s what Internet software was to the 1990s.


The legislation would institute new low-carbon requirements for vehicles and fuels, and programs to help reduce vehicle-miles traveled with increased transportation options and help for communities that want to plan for sustainable growth. Those proposals aim to reduce America’s dependence on oil and cut back on the hundreds of billions of dollars that Americans send overseas every year.

And the legislation would put in place a declining cap on greenhouse-gas pollution. That market-based system aims to protect our children and grandchildren from severe environmental and economic harm, and great threats to national-security while further invigorating advanced, American energy industries.

The American Clean Energy and Security Act draws on the thoughtful legislation that Chairman-Emeritus Dingell and Congressman Boucher drafted last October and is a serious effort at constructing comprehensive energy and climate legislation. We look forward to working with Congress as this bill moves forward to ensure that it meets the President’s objectives in the areas of an efficient and comprehensive approach that creates jobs, leverages our tremendous capacity for innovation, reduces our dependence on oil, and prevents the worst consequences of climate change.

I would like to note that the Waxman-Markey discussion draft tracks many of the recommendations put forward by the U.S. Climate Action Partnership, a coalition that includes American manufacturers such as Alcoa, John Deere, Caterpillar, Dow, Ford, General Motors, and General Electric. Those employers of American workers recognize, as they declare at the outset of their Blueprint for Legislative Action, that:

“The United States faces an urgent need to transform our nation’s economy,
make the country more energy secure, and take meaningful action to slow,
stop, and reverse [greenhouse-gas] emissions to address climate change.”

I believe that the leadership of this Committee is stepping up to provide the kind of “new vision and policy direction” that those companies talk about.

Now, the “no, we can’t” crowd will spin out doomsday scenarios about runaway costs. But EPA’s available economic modeling indicates that the investment Americans would make to implement the cap-and-trade program of the American Clean Energy and Security Act would be modest compared to the benefits that science and plain common sense tell us a comprehensive energy and climate policy will deliver.

I ask the members of this Committee to recall the Acid Rain Trading Program, drafted by this Committee and signed by a Republican President in 1990. Beltway corporate lobbyists insisted that the law would cause “death for businesses across the country.” But as the members of this Committee who worked hard on that legislation know well, it ended up delivering annual health and welfare benefits estimated to be over 120 billion dollars at an annual cost of only 3 billion dollars. Our economy grew by 64 percent even as the program cut acid rain pollution by more than 50 percent. And past auto-emissions standards sparked key technological innovations that made cars more appealing to consumers here and abroad.

Achieving energy independence and reducing carbon emissions are not easy challenges. But this Committee has dealt with difficult challenges before. When Chairman Dingell and Chairman Waxman joined together with other Members of the Committee to pass the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments, they were reported out of this Committee by a 42-to-1 vote. That bill dealt with controversial issues – not just acid rain, but also smog, hazardous air pollutants, and the threat to the ozone layer. But you found consensus, and your legislation has ended up cutting pollution at a fraction of the cost that was predicted at the time.

There may be more than one dissenting vote this time, but that does not mean that the Committee’s history cannot be repeated this year. We want to work with you in finding consensus in the coming weeks, so that we can reduce our dependence on oil, create millions of new jobs in innovative energy technologies, and significantly reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

Thank you. I look forward to the answering the members’ questions.