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National Emission Standards Finalized for Hazardous Waste Combustors
Release Date: 09/16/2005
Contact Information:
Contact: Enesta Jones, 202-564-4355 / [email protected]
(9/16/05) EPA is issuing final emission standards for hazardous waste combustors that will remove mercury, lead, particulate matter, arsenic and other hazardous pollutants from the environment. The National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants reduce emissions from incinerators, lightweight aggregate kilns, boilers and process heaters, and hydrochloric acid production furnaces, known collectively as hazardous waste combustors. EPA estimates that 145 facilities operating 265 existing hazardous waste burning devices will be affected by this rule, which requires them to use the maximum achievable pollution control technology (MACT).
EPA's technology-based standards will reduce emissions of hazardous pollutants including lead, mercury, particulate matter, arsenic, dioxin and furans, and hydrogen chloride and chlorine gas. EPA believes that better control of air pollutants will result in fewer cases of chronic bronchitis, reduced hospitalization for severe respiratory conditions and cardiovascular problems in adults and children, and fewer cancer cases. The rule protects vulnerable populations living near hazardous waste burning facilities from the effects of hazardous air pollutants.
This rule becomes effective 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. For more information on this final rule, visit: https://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/hazwaste/combust/finalmact/index.htm
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