Practical EHS Tips, News & Advice. Updated Daily.
The EPA released its 2021 Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) National Analysis on March 16, 2023. The analysis data reveals that environmental releases of TRI chemicals from facilities covered by the program remained below pre-pandemic levels, and releases in 2021 are 10% lower than 2012 releases, even with an 8% increase from 2020 to 2021. Additionally, […]
In March 2023, the EPA proposed strengthening wastewater discharge standards that apply to coal-fired power plants. The proposed rule would establish more stringent discharge standards for three wastewaters generated at coal-fired power plants: Flue gas desulfurization wastewater Bottom ash transport water Combustion residual leachate The proposed rule also addresses wastewater produced by coal-fired power plants […]
Back to Basics is a weekly feature that highlights important but possibly overlooked information that any EHS professional should know. This week, we examine per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and actions to take to reduce the risks associated with PFAS. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking several steps to address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances […]
On March 14, 2023, the Biden-Harris administration announced its proposal for a first-ever National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for six per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The legally proposed enforceable limits are 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). If finalized as proposed, public water systems (PWSs) have 3 […]
Four petitions for review were filed in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals challenging the EPA’s reinstatement of the waiver that allows the State of California to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from motor vehicles. The case presents significant questions regarding state and federal sovereignty, and any decisions reached in the matter have the potential […]
The Clean Water Act (CWA) establishes the basic structure for regulating discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States (WOTUS) and regulating quality standards for surface waters. Under the CWA, the EPA has implemented pollution control programs such as setting wastewater standards for industry. The EPA has also developed national water quality criteria […]
On February 21, 2023, the EPA and the Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) reached an agreement for the Agency to meet deadlines for reducing smog in parts of California and Texas that have some of the nation’s worst air pollution, according to the CBD. The agreement was the result of a lawsuit filed by the […]
The EPA and the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced a settlement with Logan Square Aluminum Supply Inc., resolving alleged violations of the federal Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) regulations at renovation projects Logan Square and its contractors performed in Chicago and Chicago suburbs. Under the court settlement, Logan Square will: Implement a comprehensive program […]
The EPA continues to attempt to pass regulations banning asbestos, while industry remains committed to blocking any forthcoming laws. At this time, the only remaining form of asbestos imported into the United States is chrysotile, or “white,” asbestos, which is found in products like asbestos diaphragms, sheet gaskets, brake blocks, aftermarket automotive brakes/linings, other vehicle […]
On February 21, 2023, the EPA announced it would take charge of the cleanup from a train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, that released hazardous chemicals into the environment. The Norfolk Southern train derailment occurred on February 3, 2023. The company reported that an unknown number of the 150 train cars had derailed, but 20 […]