Proposed Rule to Curb Nitrogen Oxides Pollution from New Gas Turbines is an Important Step

In response to the proposed updated New Source Performance Standards from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to address nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions from new stationary combustion turbines, American Lung Association President and CEO Harold Wimmer issued the following statement:

“The American Lung Association is pleased to see this proposal to tighten limits on nitrogen oxide emissions from new combustion turbines, including those used in gas-fired power plants. The standards haven’t been updated since 2006. The proposed standards would reduce dangerous emissions and improve health, especially in communities near these future polluting sources. Nitrogen oxides cause a range of harmful effects on the lungs, including reduced lung function, increased asthma attacks and greater likelihood of emergency department and hospital admissions. 
 
“This proposal is an important step forward for clean air, and we will advocate during the public comment period for even stronger provisions to reduce emissions. EPA is under a consent decree deadline to finalize the rule next year, and we will work to make sure the final rule is as protective of health as possible.”