Newsroom
All News Releases By Date
PA EPA PROPOSES EMISSIONS STANDARDS FOR LARGE BOATS
Release Date: 12/04/98
Contact Information:
FOR RELEASE: FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 1998
EPA PROPOSES EMISSIONS STANDARDS FOR LARGE BOATS
EPA is seeking public comment on a proposal to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate (PM) emissions from marine engines over 50 horsepower. The engines are used for propulsion and auxiliary power on fishing boats, tugs boats, and cargo vessels. The agency said the engines account for about 4.5 percent of total mobile source NOx emissions nationwide and about 1 percent of PM emissions, but because of the nature of their operation, their contribution to the emission inventories is higher in port cities and coastal areas. The agency is proposing a two-phase emission control strategy for marine diesel engines which are often derived from or use the same technologies as land-based nonroad or locomotive engines. The first phase would become effective in 2004 for engines greater than 50hp and with a displacement of less than 2.5 liters per cylinder, and in 2006 for engines with a displacement ranging from 2.5 liters per cylinder to 20 liters per cylinder. As proposed the second phase would take effect in 2008 and 2010 for these two engine size categories, respectively, but would be subject to a feasibility review in 2003. Engines with displacements greater than 20 liters per cylinder are not specifically addressed by EPA, but would be required to meet the emission standards finalized by the International Maritime Organization. The rulemaking notice also proposes that engine manufacturers be required to maintain emission performance at or near the emission standards over a broad range of operating conditions. If finalized, EPA projects that nationwide NOx emissions will be reduced by 325,000 tons per year. EPA will accept public comments for 60 days following publication in the Federal Register. A public hearing will be held in January, 1999. The proposed rulemaking is available via the EPA Internet at: https://www.epa.gov/OMSWWW/marine.htm.
R-163 ###
Search this collection of releases | or search all news releases
View selected historical press releases from 1970 to 1998 in the EPA History website.
