On May 16, 2008 (73 FR 28321-28350), EPA finalized regulations to implement the new source review (NSR) program for PM-2.5 (particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter less than or equal to 2.5 microns) that address PM-2.5 major source thresholds, significant emission rates, offset ratios for PM-2.5, interpollutant trading for offsets, the applicability of NSR to PM-2.5 precursors, and how states must now amend their minor source NSR programs to include PM-2.5.

New Lead NAAQS Proposed

On May 20, 2008 (73 FR 29184-29291), EPA proposed to significantly lower the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for lead from its current level of 1.5 mg/m³ to a level in the range of 0.10–0.30 mg/m³ to provide increased protection for children and other at risk populations from an array of adverse health effects.

F019 Listing Revision Exempts Motor Vehicle Manufacturing Wastes

On June 4, 2008 (73 FR 31756-31769), EPA finalized revisions to the hazardous waste listing description for F019 wastes that exempt wastewater treatment sludges from zinc phosphating, when such phosphating is used in the motor vehicle manufacturing process and the wastes are 1) not placed outside on the land prior to shipment for disposal, and 2) disposed in a landfill that meets specified landfill design criteria.

2008 NPDES General Storm Water Permits for Construction Activities Proposed

On May 16, 2008 (73 FR 28454-28459), EPA proposed for public comment the agency’s 2008 general discharge permits for storm water discharges from construction activities that will apply to new dischargers engaged in large and small construction activities that are located in areas where EPA is the NPDES permitting authority, except those located in EPA Region 4.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

The Acorn Scheme: From Small Acorns, Strong EMSs Grow

Developing an ISO 14001-conforming environmental management system (EMS) can certainly provide value; however, the relative degree of success to an organization may depend on how their EMS was designed each step of the way.

CLIMATE CHANGE

Climate Change and Business: From Supply Chain Carbon Emissions to a Wider Risk Set

“Ninety-six percent of suppliers see climate change regulation as a potential risk,” the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) informs us; however, several new reports indicate gaps between climate change risk and preparedness across many business sectors, and offer the case for business adaptation.