WASHINGTON (April 2, 2013) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed a new emissions standard for vehicles and motor fuels that it said will prevent up to 2,400 premature deaths annually.
"Following a proven systems approach that addresses vehicles and fuels as an integrated system, today's proposal will enable the greatest pollution reductions at the lowest cost," the EPA said in a March 29 press release announcing the standard.
According to the agency, the rule would reduce emissions of volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides by 80 percent; particulate matter by 70 percent; and fuel vapor emissions to near zero. It also would reduce vehicle emissions of toxic air pollutants, such as benzene and 1,3-butadiene, by up to 40 percent, the EPA said.
Once the proposal is published in the Federal Register, the EPA will establish deadlines for public comment and schedule public hearings.