EPA seeks feedback on new marine emission standards
CHICAGO – The Environmental Protection Agency is asking for comments on its plan to publish proposed new emission standards for marine diesel engines modeled after highway and non-road diesel engine programs, the National Marine Manufacturers Association said in a press release Tuesday.
The EPA issued an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on May 5, which precedes an actual proposed rule, but provides marine industry stakeholders the opportunity to support the proposal, or raise issues with specific elements of the plan. NMMA has begun analyzing the Notice and will be working closely with the Engine Manufacturers Association, NMMA engine manufacturer members and boat builders to provide comment on the EPA plan, according to the association.
“This proposal will define technology for future diesel-powered yachts, and we have the opportunity to help craft the rule before it is final,” said John McKnight, NMMA director of Environmental & Safety Compliance. “After a final rule is published we have no options available to us and are basically stuck with what the EPA decides. With more than 10,000 marine diesel engines sold in the U.S. each year, the outcome of this rule will have a tremendous impact on many boat and engine manufacturers.”
The proposed new standards could take effect as early as 2011, according to NMMA.
McKnight said that NMMA has been in contact with the Small Business Administration to request the recreational marine industry be included in the Small Business Regulatory, Enforcement and Fairness Act panel when it is assembled. The panel will give small boat builders and marine diesel engine manufacturers the opportunity to outline and seek relief from the economic and technical challenges any possible EPA proposed action might have on the industry.
For information on the EPA Advanced Notice for Proposed Rulemaking on marine diesel engine emissions, contact McKnight at (202) 737-9757; jmcknight@nmma.org.
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