A Breath of Fresh Air: September 2006

A Breath of Fresh Air
the monthly electronic newsletter of
Rocky Mountain Clean Air Action

Contents

• Loophole in Colorado Clean Air Law to be Closed
• Smog Reductions in the Forecast for Denver...
• ...And Colorado
• Stronger Permit for Denver Landfill Sought
• What Else is New(s)?
• Join Rocky Mountain Clean Air Action!
  

Loophole in Colorado Clean Air Law to be Closed

In response to efforts by Rocky Mountain Clean Air Action, the state of Colorado is moving to eliminate a 30 year old loophole in its air quality law. The loophole, which allows polluters to violate their air permits in the event of "upset conditions," has allowed air quality throughout Colorado to be poisoned and polluted. In the community of Lyons, the CEMEX cement plant has reported more than 116 "upsets" since 1999, releasing toxic dioxins and other harmful pollutants.

At a hearing on September 14, the Colorado Air Quality Control Commission agreed to set a hearing on December 14 to eliminate the loophole. The result will be cleaner air, healthier communities, and greater accountability.

Smog Reductions in the Forecast for Denver...

Last May, Rocky Mountain Clean Air Action called upon the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to follow through with its legal requirement to protect clean air and designate the Denver metro area in violation of federal health standards for ozone pollution. Ozone is the key component of smog. Formed when air pollutants react with sunlight, smog can cause wheezing among infants, lead to asthma attacks, and send elderly people to the hospital.

In response to our efforts, as well as the fact that ozone levels exceeded the federal health standard 66 times during the summer of 2006, the state of Colorado is proposing to ratchet down on emissions of smog forming compounds from oil and gas developments north of Denver. If adopted, this rule should lead to cleaner skies and healthier air in Denver. With a quick letter, you can weigh in and make a big difference for clean air in Denver.

...And Colorado

And, in response to booming oil and gas drilling and increasing air pollution, Colorado is also proposing to reduce emissions of smog forming compounds from oil and gas developments across the state by as much as 95%. The oil and gas industry has largely avoided regulations that require air pollution controls, despite booming development, rising air quality concerns, and human health impacts. On top of that, pollution controls are already being used by companies in western Colorado! The state's proposal would require: <>

• 95% reduction in smog forming compounds from condensate tanks
• 90% reduction in smog forming compounds form glycol dehydrators
• The use of pollution controls on reciprocating internal combustion engines that are rated 100 horsepower or larger
  

The proposal could lead to a legacy of clean air if adopted, but the rules need our support. A quick letter in support of the proposed smog reductions will make a huge difference for air quality from Yuma to Montezuma Counties and Colorado communities everywhere in between.

Stronger Permit for Denver Landfill Sought

Last month, Rocky Mountain Clean Air Action filed suit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency over its failure to overturn a state-issued air pollution permit for the Denver Regional Landfill, a significant source of smog forming compounds north of Denver. Learn more about our efforts to secure stronger air pollution permits for some of Colorado's largest and dirtiest polluters.

What Else is New(s)?

• Scientists recommend stricter smog standards to protect children, elderly
• Air pollution in Fremont County
• Strong safeguards form particulate pollution needed
• Colorado joins industry to oppose clean air
  

Join Rocky Mountain Clean Air Action!

Founded last year, Rocky Mountain Clean Air Action has aggressively stood up for our right to breathe clean air. Our overarching goal is simple: close the net on polluters, achieve decreases in air pollution, and successfully protect our children and communities. The results have been astounding.

Yet our successes can only continue with the support of members.A donation of $25 or more is what we're asking to become a member of Rocky Mountain Clean Air Action. Click here to join online in seconds, or you can send a check to the address below. All donations are tax deductible.