EPA to reinstate one-hour smog standard

The US EPA has announced a proposal to reinstate its one-hour smog standard while the Agency appeals the decision of a three-judge panel in May to strike down the more protective eight-hour standard.


The one-hour smog standard will serve as a safety net and guarantee protection of public health during this appeals process. EPA is confident its eight-hour smog standard will be reinstated upon appeal.

EPA sees the reinstatement of the one-hour smog standard as a key part of its clean air strategy. By the end of November, EPA will act on petitions from several states that would reduce 600,000 tons of smog-causing nitrogen oxide emissions from power plants in 12 Midwestern and Eastern states and the District of Columbia.

By the end of December, EPA plans to finalise more stringent tailpipe emission standards for cars, sport utility vehicles and pick-up trucks. The Agency is also developing national standards for heavy duty trucks and diesel fuels. Finalising these clean air actions would help areas meet and maintain the one-hour smog standard.

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