AF&PA opposes US EPA's final NOx Federal Implementation Plans, says Clean Air Act rule would--for the first time--include seven manufacturing sectors, including US paper mills; AF&PA says rule will harm industry and should exclude paper mill boilers

The rule should exclude paper mill boilers

CONTACT: Tim Ebner / Clara Cozort
(202) 463-2587, comm@afandpa.org

WASHINGTON – The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock issued the following statement on the Environmental Protection Agency’s final rule for Federal Implementation Plans (FIP) Addressing Regional Ozone Transport for the 2015 Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NOx FIP). The NOx FIP is a multibillion-dollar Clean Air Act rule that would, for the first time, include 7 manufacturing sectors, including U.S. paper mills.

“In its decision to regulate paper mill boilers, EPA failed to consider new information we provided showing our industry did not meet legal thresholds in the proposed rule.  

“Our industry’s inclusion in the final rule will not meaningfully improve air quality. The pulp and paper industry is already a leader in sustainable manufacturing, and our mills have reduced NOx emissions by 50% since 2000. Furthermore, this regulatory action will be significantly higher than EPA's cost threshold of $7,500/ton for inclusion. At a time when the Administration is seeking to strengthen U.S. supply chains, this rule becomes a new obstacle.  

“We encourage EPA to consider regulations that avoid unintended outcomes. Ultimately, this regulatory action will harm U.S. paper mills and cost hundreds of millions of dollars, with minimal environmental gain. This agency action will directly impact an industry that is a sustainability leader and supports American workers with high-paying jobs, often in small, rural communities.

“EPA missed an opportunity to craft a balanced and achievable regulatory solution. Sustainable regulation requires a willingness to achieve environmental progress while also supporting manufacturing and economic growth in America.”

Learn more about AF&PA members’ sustainability goals: afandpa.org/priorities/sustainability