7.18.2011

Yay for new air pollution rule!

So, I've been on vacation but now I'm back - and I've got a lot of catching up to do because there've been many very important developments in the last few weeks.  I'll start with the most exciting!

The EPA issued regulations on 7/7/11 that will cut toxic emissions from power plants in the 27 eastern-most states in the US.  Called the 'Cross-State Air Pollution Rule,' it will require nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide levels to decrease by 54% and 73%, respectively, by 2014.  


Every year, this improved air quality will prevent the loss of 34,000 lives and avoid 15,000 heart attacks and 400,000 asthma cases.  This will save taxpayers $280 billion annually in avoided healthcare expenses, while only costing $2.4 billion per year to implement and enforce.  Not a bad return on investment!

No comments:

Post a Comment