New EPA Soot Pollution Standard 2024
On February 7, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a final Soot Pollution Standard to limit fine particle pollution, which includes soot (black carbon). The adjustment of the standard from a level of 12 micrograms per cubic meter to 9 is expected to prevent up to 4,500 premature deaths and 290,000 lost workdays, as well as increase money for health benefits by 2032. Facility owners will be required to provide plans of how their organizations will meet the new standard. Facilities currently in the process of construction will need to adjust.