New Marine Emission Standards
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued new emissions regulations for gas-powered boat engines and boat fuel systems. The new standards have been a decade in the making as negotiations have finally settled between the EPA and the National Marine Manufactures Association (NMMA). This is really a decision that will benefit all: public health, the environment, as well as long-term fuel savings.
The new regulations require engines to meet California emission standards. This is also the first time gas operated marine engines will be required to meet a carbon monoxide standard. Although emissions from boats will never exceed that of automobiles, a standard such as this is overdue. The EPA has created a double-edged sword by allowing sufficient time for compliance from manufactures. On the up side, this will give them able time to make the necessary changes without financial distress; which is something the marine industry just couldn’t handle right now. On the down side, although the time frame has not been publically releases as of yet, the longer the time given, the lower the push to get the new technologies in working order and in the field.
Either way, it’s obviously a step in the right direction…toward keeping our air and water clean. (BB)
No related posts.
Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.
hey cheers for that… very informative – i’ve added your blog to my netvibes account – thanks