Draft Air Quality Management Plan Released by Regulators

On June 30, 2016, the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) released the Draft 2016 Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP), which outlines SCAQMD’s strategy towards meeting ambient air quality standards. The South Coast Air Basin (SCAB) is designated as nonattainment of the federal air quality standards for ozone and particulate matter (PM). The Draft 2016 AQMD contains emission control measures that are designed to reduce emissions of particulates and ozone precursors in order to decrease ambient concentrations of pollutants to healthy levels.

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Who does the 2016 AQMP Affect?

The Draft 2016 AQMP effects all businesses, organizations, or individuals within the SCAB. The 2016 AQMP will drive SCAQMD regulation and planning efforts in the near future. New rules, restrictions, and programs need to be developed in order to achieve the emission reductions set forth in the AQMP.
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What Control Measures are Included?

The Draft 2016 AQMP includes control measures for stationary and mobile sources of emissions. Many of the control measures presented involve incentive-based measures, which would provide funding for voluntary equipment upgrades. Stationary source control measures include, but aren’t limited to:

• Recognition of co-benefits from greenhouse gas, energy efficiency, and other programs
• Incentive based transition to zero and near-zero emission technology
• Emissions reductions from commercial and residential water heaters, non-refinery flares, and restaurant cooking equipment
• Improved leak detection and repair requirements

Mobile source control measures include, but are not limited to:

• Accelerated penetration of zero and near-zero emissions technology for light-duty and heavy-duty vehicles
• Incentive-based programs to promote exchange of old equipment for new, cleaner-burning equipment
• Emission reductions commercial marine ports, rail yards, warehouse distribution centers, and commercial airports

What’s next?

SCAQMD is holding public workshops in July and accepting written comments through August 19, 2016. All comments will be considered and incorporated in a Revised Draft 2016 AQMP, which is scheduled for release in September 2016.