Industry Concerned That Tighter Gas Emission Standards Would Hinder Progress

Date: March 28, 2008

Source: News Room

Waste industry officials are concerned that new regulation proposed by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from landfills, would have the unintended consequence of discouraging landfill gas-to-energy projects, and could jeopardize existing operations. The regulation stems from California's landmark climate change law, AB 32. It would require installation of gas control systems at smaller landfills that are currently uncontrolled and raise the methane-capture efficiency standard for existing and proposed landfill gas projects to 99%. Industry officials warned that many existing projects operate at a 97% destruction-efficiency rate which might lead landfills to scrap existing projects in favor of cheaper flaring systems to meet the new rule. There is also concern about the added burden of compliance with now two different state agencies.

California Air Resources Board: www.arb.ca.gov.

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