EPA tightens standards for particulate matter

A new rule from the Environmental Protection Agency would reduce the level of particulate matter permitted under national air-quality standards.

The new rule would tighten the annual standard from 12 micrograms of particulate matter per cubic meter of air to 9 micrograms per cubic meter. The 24-hour standard, which allows for short-term increases, would continue to be 35 micrograms per cubic meter.

Industry groups have raised concerns about the rule, saying it “threatens U.S. competitiveness and modernization projects” in various manufacturing sectors.

The American Forest & Paper Association and American Wood Council have also warned it will “harm an industry that has been recognized as an important contributor to achieving the Administration’s carbon reduction goals, including in future procurement for federal buildings.”