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EPA Issues New Source Review Rule for Fine Particulate Matter

Industrial facilities in the Philadelphia area have long been acquainted with the air permitting requirements that result from the region's classification as "nonattainment" for purposes of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, or NAAQS, for ground level ozone. These requirements, imposed through the New Source Review permitting program, result in stringent controls and limits on emissions of nitrogen oxides, or NOx, and volatile organic compounds, or VOC, for major sources. In May, the Environmental Protection Agency finalized a new regulation addressing New Source Review requirements for a separate air contaminant: fine particular matter, or PM2.5. The EPA's new rule became effective July 15. Consequently, local sources with PM2.5 emissions above certain thresholds must now satisfy New Source Review requirements for PM2.5, in addition to applicable requirements for other pollutants.

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