EPA Releases New Rules Updating Regulation of Landfill Air Emissions

        The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will soon publish two rules that change the regulation of landfill air emissions.  The rules update the Clean Air Act regulations for new and existing landfills implemented in 1996.  The proposed rules would reduce the emissions threshold that determines whether existing landfills are required to install emission controls such as a Gas Collection and Control System (GCCS).  The new rules would also create a new emissions calculation process titled “Tier 4”, that would determine when the emission threshold has been surpassed and a GCCS needs to be installed.  The new testing methodology is unique because the "Tier 4" method uses surface emissions monitoring.  In the new rules, the EPA has also created emissions guidelines specifically for closed landfills. The new guidelines exempt closed landfills from certain reporting requirements and make it easier for landfill owners to remove a GCCS when appropriate.  For further information and analysis, please contact John Peiserich or another of our environmental attorneys.