Date: Mon, 4 Jan 2010 14:01:12 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- New Year brings improved small containers for do-it-yourself automobile refrigerant From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Another step in California's effort to reduce climate change. Release 10-01 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 4, 2010 Dimitri Stanich 916-322-2825 www.arb.ca.gov New Year brings improved small containers for do-it-yourself automobile refrigerant Self-sealing containers reduce emissions of potent greenhouse gas SACRAMENTO: This New Year, California’s home-based mechanics will see changes to small containers of R-134a, a compound used to recharge automobile air-conditioning systems and a potent greenhouse gas. The new requirements, adopted by the Air Resources Board to comply with AB 32, California’s Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, are expected to eliminate over 250,000 metric tons of carbon-dioxide equivalents in 2020. The gas in these small containers, R-134a, is 1,300 times more powerful than carbon dioxide in trapping heat from the sun in the atmosphere, in turn contributing to climate change. “This is an excellent example of how regulations can be crafted with full cooperation of the industry,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “As a result, do-it-yourselfers will continue to have an affordable product to recharge their car’s air conditioners but with fewer emissions of potent greenhouse gases.” The regulation, one of a series of so-called discrete early action measures under AB 32 has four major components: * Better container technology: a self-sealing valve on all small containers of automotive refrigerant sold in California to prevent emissions of any product remaining in a used container; * Improved instructions for use; * A new industry-run container deposit and recycling program to ensure the recovery of refrigerant remaining in a used can; * A manufacturer-developed education program so consumers can use the best techniques for recharging an air conditioner. Consumers of the do-it-yourself cans of automotive refrigerant should begin to see cans on the shelf that meet the new requirements as existing inventory is sold and restocked over the next few months. AB 32, California's Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, was signed into law by Governor Schwarzenegger in September 2006 and calls on California to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:59:11 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Advisory Panel Recommends Household Friendly Approach to Carbon Regulation From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Each of us plays a key role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 11, 2010 CONTACT: BreAnda Northcutt Lindsay VanLaningham (916) 324-9670 Stanley Young, ARB (916) 322-1309 Advisory Panel Recommends “Household Friendly” Approach to Carbon Regulation EAAC Recommendations Depart from Existing European, Proposed Federal Cap-and-Trade Designs SACRAMENTO – Today, the 16-member Economic and Allocation Advisory Committee (EAAC) released their final report of recommendations to California officials on a range of economic issues related to the possible design of a cap-and-trade system to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Today’s final report includes key recommendations to help inform the development of a cap-and-trade program by the California Air Resources Board pursuant to the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32). The proposal to return a large majority of the allowance value back to households is a significant departure from most federal proposals, as well as the existing Emissions Trading System employed in the European Union. “The issue of allocation strategy is one of the most important elements of a cap-and-trade program. I am encouraged that this diverse group of experts, with a broad range of perspectives, was able to reach consensus regarding the importance of auctioning the majority of emission allowances and directing the value back to the people of California,” said Larry Goulder, Chair of the EAAC and Shuzo Nishihara Professor in Environmental and Resource Economics at Stanford University. “California policymakers have made a cap-and-trade program an integral part of its strategy to implement AB 32. The Committee’s objective is that the recommendations contained in this report will assist the Air Resources Board in developing a cap-and-trade program that is both effective and fair,” said Rick Frank, Vice Chair of the EAAC and Executive Director of the Center for Law, Energy & the Environment at the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. The EAAC recommends a “household friendly” approach to carbon regulation by suggesting that the majority of allowance value derived from California’s cap-and-trade program be returned to households. Particular attention is recommended for low-income and disadvantaged communities to ensure they are not disproportionately affected by the program. Remaining allowance value is recommended to be used to ensure a level playing field for California’s workers and industries and for public purposes that will also benefit consumers, including energy efficiency programs, research on clean technologies, climate change adaptation measures, and environmental remediation. Cal/EPA and ARB asked the Committee to look at the allocation of emission allowances and the various options for distributing allowance value. It employed four criteria from AB 32 in developing the recommendations: fairness, cost-effectiveness, environmental effectiveness and simplicity. The recommendations from the Committee will be considered for possible inclusion in the draft regulation for California’s greenhouse gas cap-and-trade program, due out this spring. A cap-and-trade program is part of a broad based multi-sector approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions outlined in the AB 32 Scoping Plan, adopted by the ARB in December 2008. The Plan, which serves as California’s roadmap for reducing greenhouse gas emissions calls for a mix of complementary measures along with the creation of a cap-and-trade program. The proposed cap-and-trade program would cover 85% of California’s largest emission sources including electricity generation, large industrial sources, transportation fuels, and residential and commercial use of natural gas. The Committee’s final report makes the following key recommendations: • Return nearly 75% of the allowance value to households, through direct financial transfers or tax decreases. The report recommends that 75% of the monetary value of allowances received, after low-income assistance and some industry protections are accounted for, be returned to households with the other purposes accounting for the remaining 25%. • Avoid disproportionate adverse economic impact to low-income households. The report recommends giving low-income households, which spend proportionately more of their income on energy, some of the allowance value, to balance possible increases in costs. EAAC recommends financial transfers rather than subsidized energy prices. • Use an auction as the primary method for distributing allowances. EAAC finds that almost any purpose that could be achieved through free allocation could also be achieved through auction, and that auctions would be more transparent and provide additional advantages including price discovery and market liquidity. • Prevent leakage, through “border adjustments” or allocation. Firms that rely most heavily on carbon-based energy, and that compete directly with firms that do not face carbon regulation, should be provided assistance to avoid loss of market share that doesn’t result in emissions benefits. Where possible, California should account for the carbon in imported products so that in-state producers and out-of-state producers face the same costs. Where that is not possible, allowance value should be given to affected California firms to reduce their costs. • Do not give allowance value to firms for other reasons. The report does not recommend that value be given to firms for any other reasons than those cited above. The Committee recommends against freely giving allowances to utilities to reduce the price impacts on their consumers, which would remove the incentive for consumers to invest in energy efficiency, and raise the societal cost of the program. • Invest in a low-carbon economy; create an independent board to advise and screen investments. The report offers principles to choose among investments and lists many categories of targets. In addition, the report recommends the creation of an independent Investment Advisory Board to help ARB choose specific proposals. • Create an air pollution contingency fund. The report recommends that if air pollution increases in disadvantaged communities as a result of AB 32—considered to be an unlikely outcome given safeguards built into the law—funds should be available for remediation. If air pollution does not increase, the funds should go to other recommended purposes. • Adopt an auction design very similar to that of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). RGGI, a collaboration of ten Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from electricity, has held six cap-and-trade allowance auctions. Its auction design is relatively simple, and the report recommends emulating it with one addition: allowing the public to sell allowances in its auctions along with the state. Next month, members of the Committee will present the key findings of their report before members of ARB at their February hearing in Sacramento. In addition to today’s final report, Committee members also will help inform the ARB on its revised economic analysis due to be released next month. The EAAC has met publicly ten times since it was created on May 22, 2009 by Linda Adams, Secretary for Environmental Protection, and Mary Nichols, Chairman of the Air Resources Board. This independent panel of experts is comprised of economic, financial and policy experts with various backgrounds and experiences. For more information on the EAAC and to view the full report, go to http://www.climatechange.ca.gov/eaac/. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 13 Jan 2010 11:45:26 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- ARB lauds national air pollution study on vehicle pollution From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols issued the following statemet today in response to the release of the Health Effects Institute's health report issued today Air Resources Board Release 10-02 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 13, 2010 Leo Kay 916-322-2990 (office) 916-849-9843 (cell) www.arb.ca.gov ARB lauds national air pollution study on vehicle pollution ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols issued the following statemet today in response to the release of the Health Effects Institute's health report issued today "The breadth and comprehensiveness of the HEI work provides strong scientific support for continuing efforts to address vehicle pollution here in California and across the country," said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. "When nearly half of the nation's population is being exposed to unhealthy levels of these pollutants, it's clearly time for all of us to work together to bring cleaner air to our communities." The full report of HEI Traffic Panel is available at www.healtheffects.org. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:12:01 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- New rule for long haul- truckers expected to lower costs, better fuel efficiency From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Measure expected to eliminate one million metric tons of greenhouse gases by 2020. Air Resources Board Release 10-03 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: January 13, 2010 Karen Caesar (626) 575-6728 www.arb.ca.gov New rule for long haul- truckers expected to lower costs, better fuel efficiency Measure expected to eliminate one million metric tons of greenhouse gases by 2020 SACRAMENTO – Long-haul truckers in California are already on the road to saving money and reducing air pollution, thanks to a new regulation designed to improve fuel economy and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Adopted by the Air Resources Board in December 2008 and effective at the start of this month, the aim of the regulation is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from tractor-trailer rigs operating within the state. The measure applies to 53-foot or longer box-type trailers as well as the heavy-duty trucks (also called tractors) that pull them on California highways. It requires rig owners to use low-rolling resistance tires and approved aerodynamic devices on their affected vehicles, either by replacing or retrofitting the vehicles according to a staggered schedule. “This important measure is ultimately going to improve our air quality, save hard-earned dollars and promote energy independence by helping to decrease our consumption of fuel,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “It makes good environmental and economic sense for business owners and for those of us who live and breathe in California.” Between 2010 and 2020, ARB estimates that this regulation will save about $8.6 billion, as well as 750 million gallons of diesel fuel in California and 5 billion gallons of diesel fuel across the nation. It will also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide-equivalents by 2020, statewide. The regulation is one of the nine "early actions" adopted by the ARB to help implement the goals of AB 32, the state's pioneering climate change law signed by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2006. It also complements existing ARB programs addressing emission reductions from a wide variety of diesel engines. The rule incorporates elements of the U.S. EPA’s successful, voluntary SmartWay Transport Partnership program, which identifies products and services that reduce transportation-related emissions. SmartWay partners include government, business and consumers who strive to protect the environment and lower fuel use. All owners, regardless of where their vehicles are registered, must comply with the regulation when they operate these vehicles in California. The average estimated cost increase for the purchase of a SmartWay certified tractor equipped with approved aerodynamic devices and low-rolling resistance tires is $2,100 per tractor. The average estimated cost of trailer compliance for the purchase and installation of approved aerodynamic devices and low-rolling resistance tires is approximately $2,900 per trailer. Owners can expect a compliant tractor-trailer pairing to realize a seven to 10 percent fuel economy gain, depending on the types of tractor and trailer improvements. Assuming this range, the fuel savings would be approximately $4,000 to $5,700 per year for a tractor-trailer combination. According to the regulation, by Jan. 1 all 2011 model year and newer sleeper cab trucks that pull 53-foot or longer dry van and refrigerated van trailers must be SmartWay certified, which includes installing low-rolling resistance tires. Model year 2011 and newer day cabs are only required to use SmartWay verified low-rolling resistance tires. All pre- 2011 model year tractors that pull affected trailers must use SmartWay verified low-rolling resistance tires starting January 1, 2012. In addition, 53-foot and longer box trailers that are 2011 model year and newer must be either SmartWay certified or retrofitted with some combination of SmartWay verified technologies such as rear fairings, trailer side skirts, trailer front gap fairings and other devices. They must also be fitted with low-rolling resistance tires. Retrofitting of pre-2011 trailers can be phased in over an extended period. Detailed information about the regulation is available at www.arb.ca.gov/cc/hdghg/hdghg.htm. Business owners can also call the ARB diesel hotline at 1 866 6DIESEL (634-3735) or send an email to 8666diesel@arb.ca.gov. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:44:16 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- San Bernardino County waste hauler fined $307,200 for emissions violations From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Company failed to inspect their diesel vehicles and failed to comply with the solid waste collection rule . NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Air Resources Board Release 09-04 January 13, 2010 CONTACT: Karen Caesar (626) 575-6728 www.arb.ca.gov San Bernardino County waste hauler fined $307,200 for emissions violations SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board fined Burrtec Waste Industries, Inc. $307,200 in November for emissions violations during 2005 and 2006. An ARB investigation showed Burrtec Waste Industries, Inc. located in Fontana, Calif., failed to properly inspect their diesel vehicles. The company also failed to comply with the solid waste collection vehicle rule by neglecting to retrofit some of their diesel vehicles with the required emission-reduction devices. "Trash haulers work hard to move waste out of our communities, and they burn a lot of diesel fuel close to where people live and work,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “That's why California law requires that their engines be maintained and inspected to keep pollution as low as possible." As part of the settlement, Burrtec Waste Industries is required to: • Guarantee employees responsible for conducting the inspections attend a California community college training class on diesel emissions compliance testing and provide certificates of completion within one year; • Provide documentation to ARB that the inspections are being carried out for the next four years; • Ensure all heavy-duty diesel vehicles have their software updated with the latest low-NOx (oxides of nitrogen emissions) programming; • Instruct vehicle operators to comply with the state's idling regulations; • Retrofit the appropriate number of solid waste collection vehicles with the best available control technology; • Comply with all requirements applicable to solid waste collection vehicles; and, • Ensure all diesel truck engines are up to federal emissions standards for the vehicle model year and are properly labeled with an emissions control certification label. Burrtec Waste Industries, paid $307,200 in penalties: $230,400 went to the California Air Pollution Control Fund for projects and research to improve California's air quality. The Peralta Community College District received $76,800 to fund emissions education classes at California community colleges throughout the state. Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing substances. In 1998, California identified diesel exhaust as a toxic air contaminant based on its potential to cause cancer, premature death and other health problems. New research links vehicle exhaust and lung cancer mortality in trucking industry workers exposed to diesel and other types of vehicle emissions with increasing years of work. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:58:49 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Newman company fined $37,000 for emissions violations From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Mello Milk Transport, Inc., failed to conduct diesel truck smoke tests NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Air Resources Board Release 10-05 CONTACT: Mary Fricke (916) 322-2990 www.arb.ca.gov Newman company fined $37,000 for emissions violations SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board last month fined a Newman, Calif. heavy-duty diesel fleet $37,000 for failing to inspect its diesel trucks for compliance with the state’s smoke emissions standards. ARB investigators found that Mello Milk Transport, Inc., failed to conduct diesel truck smoke tests in 2008 and 2009 at its fleet facility, as required by state law. “Reducing diesel particulate emissions is the most important thing we can do to protect the public against the harmful health effects of air pollution,” said ARB Chairman Mary Nichols. “Businesses that do their part by maintaining their vehicles help keep our air healthy.” Under the penalty, Mello Milk must: • Ensure that staff responsible for compliance with the diesel truck emission inspection program attend diesel education courses and provide certificates of completion within one year; • Instruct vehicle operators to comply with the state’s idling regulations; • Complete heavy-duty diesel engine software and control technology upgrades in compliance with regulations; • Supply all smoke inspection records to ARB for the next four years; and, • Properly label engines to ensure compliance with the engine emissions certification program regulations. The California Air Pollution Control Fund, established to mitigate various sources of pollution through education and the advancement and use of cleaner technology, will receive $27,750, and the remaining $9,250 will go to the Peralta Community College District to fund diesel education classes. Failure to inspect diesel vehicles can lead to an increase in harmful airborne particles that Californians breathe. In 1998, the ARB listed diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant in order to protect public health. Exposure to unsafe levels of diesel emissions can increase the risk of asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory diseases. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy cost, see our web site at http://www.arb.ca.gov ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 14 Jan 2010 17:02:59 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- ARB clarifies requirement of tire inflation rule From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov ARB proposes to amend its tire inflation regulation. California Environmental Protection Agency NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Jan. 14, 2010 Air Resources Board CONTACT: Leo Kay (916)849-9843 ARB clarifies requirement of tire inflation rule SACRAMENTO: The Air Resources Board clarified today that it is proposing to amend its tire inflation regulation, which will continue to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining consumer options for auto owners to ensure they are not required to make purchases when automotive repair shops check tire inflation levels. The regulation, which provides better fuel economy, reduced carbon emissions and increased safety, provides state vehicle owners having their vehicles serviced the option to either agree to have their tires inflated at the facility or to do it later on their own Proper tire inflation is estimated to annually: • Eliminate 700,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions; • Reduce the state's fuel consumption by 75 million gallons; and, • Extend the average tire's useful life by 4,700 miles. ARB will work with the Bureau of Automotive Repair to provide outreach on the implementation of this program, which ARB adopted in March. The 40,000 service providers subject to the regulation include smog check stations, engine repair facilities and oil service providers. Those not included are car wash, body and paint, and glass repair businesses. The cost of implementing the regulation balanced with the benefits from the measures will save the average Californian $12 per year in wasted gas mileage About 38 percent of vehicles on the road in California today have severely under inflated tires, six pounds under manufacturer's recommendations. As well as seriously reducing the vehicle's handling capabilities, under inflation can cause irreparable damage, reduce tread life and force the engine to work harder thus increasing the amount of fuel needed. The regulation is one in a series that ARB has adopted over the past several years to meet the requirements of the Global Warming Solutions Act or AB 32, signed by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2006, that seeks to reduce California’s greenhouse gas emissions 25 percent by the year 2020. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy cost, see our web site at http://www.arb.ca.gov ### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:47:13 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- ARB restates commitment to establishing a national vehicle greenhouse gas standard From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov In response to inaccurate reports that California may pull out of an agreement regarding greenhouse gas standards announced last May by the White House, Chairman Mary D. Nichols of the California Air Resources Board made the following statement: Caliofrnia Environmental Protection Agency Air Resources Board NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Jan. 20, 2010 CONTACT: Stanley Young (916) 956-9409 ARB restates commitment to establishing a national vehicle greenhouse gas standard In response to inaccurate reports that California may pull out of an agreement regarding greenhouse gas standards announced last May by the White House, Chairman Mary D. Nichols of the California Air Resources Board made the following statement: "The California Air Resources Board is fully committed to the agreement to establish a national vehicle greenhouse gas standard announced last May by President Obama in the Rose Garden,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “There are still difficult technical issues to be resolved, as is to be expected in developing any pioneering rule, but we are confident that they will be worked out successfully. We look forward to working with both the EPA and the Department of Transportation in a spirit of cooperation to ensure the complete success of the Rose Garden agreement." The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy cost, see our web site at http://www.arb.ca.gov #### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 2 Feb 2010 15:52:24 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- ARB Chairman Mary Nichols issues comment on lawsuit challenging Californias LCFS From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov A lawsuit announced today is challenging California's Low Carbon Fuel Standard. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:Stanley Young February 2,2010 (916) 322-2990 www.arb.ca.gov ARB Chairman Mary Nichols issues comment on lawsuit challenging California’s LCFS SACRAMENTO: In response to a lawsuit brought by the National Petrochemical and Refiners Association, the American Truckers Association and two other organizations challenging CARB's Low Carbon Fuel Standard Mary Nichols, CARB chairman, issued the following statement: "Their actions are shameful. This is a critical tool to help us break our dependence on fossil fuels. It will protect us from volatile oil prices and provide consumers with cleaner fuels and provide the nation with greater energy security. Our analysis shows that producing alternative fuels under this standard can save consumers as much as $11 billion over the next decade, and that's in California alone. Instead of fighting us in court, they should be working with us to provide consumers in California and the rest of the nation with the next generation of cleaner fuels." The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 14:33:18 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board launches $20 million in funding assistance for heavy-duty From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Program is the nation’s first to reduce the up-front cost of hybrid vehicles. California Air Resources Board Release 10-08 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 3, 2010 CONTACT: Mary Fricke (916) 322-2990 Air Resources Board launches $20 million in funding assistance for heavy-duty hybrid trucks and buses Program is the nation’s first to reduce the up-front cost of hybrid vehicles SACRAMENTO – Today the Air Resources Board launched a $20 million funding assistance program designed to spur the purchase of hybrid trucks and buses that reduce smog-forming pollution and address climate change. Funding incentives range from $10,000 to $45,000 and each vehicle purchaser, regardless of the size of their fleet, is limited to a maximum of 100 vouchers and is expected to put up to 800 vehicles on the road on a first-come, first-served basis. ARB created the financial incentive program from AB 118 funding to help Californians purchase cleaner, but more costly hybrid vehicles. “California is taking an aggressive approach to getting lower-polluting vehicles on the road more quickly,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “This will accelerate our progress in cleaning up the air we breathe and reaching our climate change reduction goals.” Hybrid vehicle technology can reduce truck and bus emissions by 20 to 50 percent, including gases that contribute to global warming. Hybrid vehicles also reduce smog-forming emissions while saving vehicle owners money in reduced fuel costs. The program cuts about half the cost of purchasing road-ready hybrid trucks and buses, helping owners buy cleaner, newer technology sooner. The program is expected to put up to 800 vehicles on the road on a first come, first serve basis and spur U.S. manufacturing and technology jobs, bolstering American companies that are leaders in heavy-duty hybrid technology. ARB has partnered with CALSTART to administer the program. Eligibility is based on the purchase of selected hybrid vehicles and fleet owners must agree to register and operate the vehicle in California for three years. Dealers, manufactures and fleet owners can learn more about the program at californiahvip.org. The program will also help achieve the goals of the state’s Climate Change Scoping Plan that requires California to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by the year 2020 with clean alternative fuels. Transportation accounts for 40 percent of the total emissions of climate changing gases. Smog has been known to exacerbate a variety of cardiovascular and respiratory conditions such as heart disease and asthma, and diesel particulate matter was listed as toxic in 1998. Diesel particulate matter contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing substances, linking it to premature death, cancer and other health problems. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 16:03:48 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- ARB applauds EPAs renewable fuels announcement From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Renewable fuels will reduce our dependence on petroleum. Release 10-09 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 3, 2010 Stanley Young (916) 956-9409 www.arb.ca.gov ARB applauds EPA’s renewable fuels announcement SACRAMENTO: In response to the announcement made today by EPA regarding the Renewable Fuels Standard, Mary D. Nichols, chairman of the California Air Resources Board, made the following statement: "The California Air Resources Board applauds the EPA for its efforts to conduct a thorough assessment of the climate-related impacts of renewable fuels. It is notable that both the EPA, and CARB have determined that sound science compels the consideration of land use change in any lifecycle analysis of the greenhouse gas impacts of fuels. While our regulatory programs differ somewhat, we look forward to working closely with the EPA and with the National Academy of Sciences to continue evaluating the lifecycle analysis of fuels. CARB fully stands behind the President’s call for a comprehensive energy and climate bill that will include biofuels and other next-generation alternative fuels to help lower greenhouse gas emissions and drive the development of clean energy jobs and technologies." The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 10 Feb 2010 09:56:06 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Rapid Harvest Company fined $16,500 for emissions violations From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Company improperly inspected vehicles. Air Resources Board Release 09-10 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 10, 2010 CONTACT:Mary Fricke (916)322-2990 www.arb.ca.gov Rapid Harvest Company fined $16,500 for emissions violations SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board recently fined Rapid Harvest Company $16,500 for diesel emissions violations. An ARB investigation showed Rapid Harvest, based in Salinas, Calif., failed to properly inspect their diesel vehicles in 2005. “There are instances where companies are not aware of ARB’s requirements,” said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. “And while this doesn’t excuse them from complying, any company found in violation that cooperates to bring its equipment quickly into compliance scores a victory for public health.” The law requires owners of California-registered truck fleets to regularly inspect their vehicles to ensure that their engine emissions meet state air quality standards. Rapid Harvest is required to: • Guarantee employees responsible for conducting the inspections attend a training class on diesel emissions compliance testing and provide certificates of completion within one year; • Provide documentation to ARB that the inspections are being carried out for the next four years; • Ensure all heavy-duty diesel vehicles have their software updated with the latest low-NOx (oxides of nitrogen emissions) programming; • Instruct vehicle operators to comply with the state's idling regulations; and, • Ensure all diesel truck engines are up to federal emissions standards for the vehicle model year and are properly labeled with an emission control certification label. Rapid Harvest agreed to pay $16,500 in penalties: $12,375 will go to the California Air Pollution Control Fund for projects and research to improve California's air quality. The remaining $4,125 will go to the Peralta Community College District to fund emissions education classes conducted by participating California community colleges. Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing compounds. In 1998, California identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant based on its potential to cause cancer, premature death and other health problems. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 10 Feb 2010 11:06:38 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Unilever parent company pays $1.3 million for air quality violations From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov ARB regulations have curbed emissions of ozone-forming volatile organic compounds from consumer products by 44 percent, nearly 200 tons-per-day, since 1998. Release 10-11 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 10, 2010 Dimitri Stanich 916-322-2825 916-716-8047 cell www.arb.ca.gov Unilever parent company pays $1.3 million for air quality violations SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board penalized Unilever/Conopco $1.3 million last month for illegal consumer products sales between 2006 and 2008. Conopco, Unilever’s parent company, sold, supplied and offered for sale in California more than 2.8 million units of deodorant body spray that failed to meet clean air standards for aerosol deodorants. “Consumer products, because of their pervasive use, contribute a growing portion of VOC emissions throughout California. Therefore, it’s important that every can and bottle of product be compliant with ARB’s standards,” said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. “The good news for California is that Unilever, after being made aware of the violation, took the steps necessary to correct the violation, mitigate the impacts, and ultimately reduce the emissions from this product.” The violations resulted in significant excess emissions from volatile organic compounds. These emissions contribute to ground-level ozone, or smog. Exposure to ozone can cause lung inflammation, impaired breathing, coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and worsening of asthma symptoms. Over 90 percent of Californians still breathe unhealthy air at some time during the year. Conopco cooperated in the investigation and will make two equal payments of $650,000 into the California Air Pollution Control Fund for projects and research to improve California's air quality. The California Clean Air Act adopted in 1988 required ARB to reduce VOC emissions from consumer products as a means to reach health-based state and federal ambient air quality standards. Deodorants, hair spray, cleaning products, spray paint, and insecticides are examples of common consumer products that are made with VOCs. Since 1988 ARB regulations have curbed these emissions by 44 percent, nearly 200 tons per day, and cut toxic air contaminants by 13 tons per day. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 11 Feb 2010 10:07:53 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Chemical Transfer Company fined $6,500 for emissions violations From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Stockton company fined for failure to properly inspect vehicles. California Air Resources Board Release 10-12 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 11, 2010 Contact: Mary Fricke 916-322-2990 916-201-0739 cell www.arb.ca.gov Chemical Transfer Company fined $6,500 for emissions violations SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board fined Chemical Transfer Company last month for $6,500 for diesel emissions violations. An ARB investigation showed Chemical Transfer Company, based in Stockton, Calif., failed to properly inspect their diesel vehicles during 2008 and 2009. “All trucking companies must properly inspect and maintain their diesel vehicles to ensure that California’s emissions goals are achieved,” said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. “The emissions from diesel trucks are very detrimental to the public’s health.” The law requires owners of California-registered truck fleets to regularly inspect their vehicles to ensure that their engine emissions meet state air quality standards. Chemical Transfer is required to: • Guarantee employees responsible for conducting the inspections attend a training class on diesel emissions compliance testing and provide certificates of completion within one year; • Provide documentation to ARB that the inspections are being carried out for the next four years; • Ensure all heavy-duty diesel vehicles have their software updated with the latest low-NOx (oxides of nitrogen emissions) programming; • Instruct vehicle operators to comply with the state's idling regulations; and, • Ensure all diesel trucks are up to federal emissions standards for the vehicle model year and are properly labeled with an emission control label. Chemical Transfer paid $6,500 in penalties: $4,875 went to the California Air Pollution Control Fund for projects and research to improve California's air quality. The Peralta Community College District received $1,625 to fund emissions education classes conducted by participating California community colleges. Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing compounds. In 1998, California identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant based on its potential to cause cancer, premature death and other health problems. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 11 Feb 2010 18:24:33 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- ARB gives relief to off-road construction equipment owners From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Enforcement of regulations will be postponed. Release 10-13 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 11, 2010 Leo Kay 916-849-9843 cell www.arb.ca.gov ARB gives relief to off-road construction equipment owners SACRAMENTO: Air Resources Board Executive Officer James G. Goldstene issued the following statement today: “Over the last several years, the construction industry has felt the sting of the faltering economy with reduced activity and idled off-road equipment. This has made it difficult for contractors to pay for required clean-air upgrades to their fleets. Along with this reduced construction activity has been a corresponding reduction in construction emissions. “Because of this, ahead of a March 1, 2010, compliance deadline, ARB will issue an enforcement advisory to notify all stakeholders affected by the off-road equipment regulation that effective immediately, and until further notice, no enforcement action will be taken for noncompliance. In addition, on March 11 an Executive Officer hearing will be held where stakeholders may testify on the question of whether the off-road regulations should be further modified to account for the down economy and subsequent emissions reductions. That information will be included in an already-scheduled update to the full Board at its April meeting. “ARB will continue to evaluate the impact of the recession on emissions from all sources and make adjustments to our regulations as needed. However, the health of all Californians requires that all industries continue to use the cleanest, most efficient equipment possible. Clean air is not a luxury – it is a right. We need to continue to work toward goals that save us all money in healthcare costs, lost work and school days, and contribute to our quality of life.” The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 11 Feb 2010 21:42:31 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- CORRECTION to James N. Goldstene's middle initial, for attribution From: rding@arb.ca.gov Enforcement of regulations will be postponed. Release 10-13 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 11, 2010 Leo Kay 916-849-9843 cell www.arb.ca.gov ARB gives relief to off-road construction equipment owners SACRAMENTO: Air Resources Board Executive Officer James N. Goldstene issued the following statement today: “Over the last several years, the construction industry has felt the sting of the faltering economy with reduced activity and idled off-road equipment. This has made it difficult for contractors to pay for required clean-air upgrades to their fleets. Along with this reduced construction activity has been a corresponding reduction in construction emissions. “Because of this, ahead of a March 1, 2010, compliance deadline, ARB will issue an enforcement advisory to notify all stakeholders affected by the off-road equipment regulation that effective immediately, and until further notice, no enforcement action will be taken for noncompliance. In addition, on March 11 an Executive Officer hearing will be held where stakeholders may testify on the question of whether the off-road regulations should be further modified to account for the down economy and subsequent emissions reductions. That information will be included in an already-scheduled update to the full Board at its April meeting. “ARB will continue to evaluate the impact of the recession on emissions from all sources and make adjustments to our regulations as needed. However, the health of all Californians requires that all industries continue to use the cleanest, most efficient equipment possible. Clean air is not a luxury – it is a right. We need to continue to work toward goals that save us all money in healthcare costs, lost work and school days, and contribute to our quality of life.” The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 17 Feb 2010 11:55:06 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Petaluma company fined $20,000 for emissions violations From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Diesel fleet owners must regularly inspect their engines to assure compliance. Release 10-14 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 17, 2010 Dimitri Stanich 916-322-2825 916-716-8047 cell www.arb.ca.gov Petaluma company fined $20,000 for emissions violations SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board last month fined a Petaluma, Calif. company $20,000 for failing to inspect its diesel trucks for compliance with the state’s smoke emissions standards. ARB investigators found that Golden State Lumber, Inc. failed to conduct diesel truck smoke tests in 2009, as required by state law. “Diesel particulate matter is a hazard to all Californians,” said ARB Enforcement Chief Jim Ryden. “By taking steps to reduce soot emissions, companies that operate in the state help clean the air.” Under the penalty, Golden State Lumber must: * Ensure that staff responsible for compliance with the diesel truck emission inspection program attend diesel education courses and provide certificates of completion within one year; * Instruct vehicle operators to comply with the state’s idling regulations; * Complete heavy-duty diesel engine software and control technology upgrades in compliance with regulations; * Supply all smoke inspection records to ARB for the next four years; and, * Properly label engines to ensure compliance with the engine emissions certification program regulations. The California Air Pollution Control Fund, established to mitigate various sources of pollution through education and the advancement and use of cleaner technology, will receive $15,000, and the remaining $5,000 will go to the Peralta Community College District to fund diesel education classes around the state. Failure to inspect diesel vehicles can lead to an increase in harmful airborne particles that Californians breathe. In 1998, the ARB listed diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant in order to protect public health. Exposure to diesel emissions can increase the risk of asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory diseases, and premature deaths. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:19:10 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Media Advisory: ARB and BAR to discuss proposed Smog Check upgrades tomorrow From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Proposed changes to Smog Check will increase efficiency and reduce costs. Release 10-15 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 22, 2010 Dimitri Stanich 916-322-2990 www.arb.ca.gov ARB, BAR to discuss proposed Smog Check upgrades tomorrow SACRAMENTO: Tomorrow, representatives of the Air Resources Board and the Bureau of Automotive Repair will provide an overview on proposed changes to the state’s Smog Check program that will save consumers time and money and further reduce air pollution throughout the state. Who: Tom Cackette, ARB Chief Deputy Executive Officer Sherry Mehhl, BAR Chief What: Phone-in media briefing Where: Call in number 1-888-324-7812 Password: Smog Check When: 11 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 23 The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 23 Feb 2010 12:03:47 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Smog Check program legislation aims for clean air benefits, lower costs, conveniences From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Changes to Smog Check program will reduce costs and expedite process for consumers. Release 10-16 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 23, 2010 ARB - Dimitri Stanich 916-322-2990 www.arb.ca.gov BAR - Luis Farias 916-826-6069 Smog Check program legislation aims for clean air benefits, lower costs, conveniences SACRAMENTO: The Air Resources Board and the Bureau of Automotive Repair are jointly sponsoring legislation that is projected to save consumers money, save time and provide greater air quality from the state’s Smog Check program, which is administered by BAR. Addressing challenges raised by a recent analysis of smog check, Assembly Member Mike Eng (D-Monterey Park) introduced AB 2289 that will provide faster and cheaper service to more than 70 percent of vehicles in California. The bill also directs older, high emitting vehicles to the highest performing stations. "The Smog Check program is one of the most important air quality programs that we have to meet state and federal air quality standards," stated Assemblymember Mike Eng. "AB 2289 is designed to improve the program in reducing pollution through the use of new technologies that provide considerable time and cost savings to consumers while at the same time improving consumer protections by adopting more stringent fine structures to respond to station and technicians that perform improper and incomplete inspections." “If signed, this bill will allow a major upgrade in the technologies used to test vehicle emissions,” said BAR Chief Sherry Mehl. “It will result in cleaner air and has the potential to reduce the cost of a Smog Check for many consumers, as well as reduce the time spent by consumers getting their vehicles inspected.” “This new and improved program will have the same result as taking 800,000 old cars off the road, also resulting in a more cost effective program for California motorists,” said ARB Chairman, Mary D. Nichols. “Today’s announcement will add additional improvements to one of our most effective programs in our fight for clean air, capturing up to 70 tons-per-day of smog-forming emissions.” One way the program would reduce costs is by taking advantage of on-board diagnostic technology installed in all new vehicles since 1996. The program will now take better advantage of OBD technology by eliminating tailpipe testing and instead using the vehicle’s own emissions monitoring system. This system has saved consumers time and money in 22 other states. The recent statewide audit of the Smog Check program revealed that 19 percent of vehicles that initially passed testing failed subsequent roadside tests within a short period of time. The audit can be found at http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/smogcheck/smogcheck.htm. Reacting to these findings Assembly Member Eng designed legislation that includes the following: • Authorize the use of On Board Diagnostic II testing to expedite the process; • Vehicles known to release large amounts of pollution must test at stations with the highest performance ratings; • Stricter fines structure for improper inspections; • Permit the state to contract with the private sector to manage franchise-like networks of independently owned Smog Check stations; • Mandate an annual evaluation of station performance using roadside tests; and, • Encourage community colleges and other training institutions to develop technician-training programs. California’s Smog Check program, administered by the Bureau of Automotive Repair, began in 1984 to identify vehicles in need of maintenance and to assure the effectiveness of their emission control systems on a biennial basis. Currently, Smog Check cuts 400 tons of smog-forming emissions from California’s air each day. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. The Bureau of Automotive Repair licenses auto repair facilities to protect consumers and administers the Smog Check program to reduce auto emissions that cause air pollution. Consumers who have a problem with an auto repair facility can file a complaint with the Bureau of Automotive Repair by calling 1-800-952-5210. Consumers can also file complaints online at BAR’s Web site at www.autorepair.ca.gov. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:30:55 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Long Beach company fined $31,500 for emissions violations From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Bragg Investment Companies fined for emissions violations. California Air Resources Board Release 10-17 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 24, 2010 Karen Caesar (626) 575-6728 www.arb.ca.gov Long Beach company fined $31,500 for emissions violations SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board fined Bragg Investment Companies $31,500 this month for emissions violations during 2008. An ARB investigation showed Bragg Investment Companies, based in Long Beach, Calif., failed to properly inspect their diesel-powered vehicles for excess emissions. “Routine diesel inspections are a top priority in protecting California's air,” said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. “Companies failing to conduct these inspections can lead to an increase of toxic diesel particulate matter in the air. The law requires owners of California-registered truck fleets to regularly inspect their vehicles to ensure that their engine emissions meet state air quality regulations. Bragg Investment Companies is required to: • Guarantee employees responsible for conducting the inspections attend a training class on diesel emissions compliance testing and provide certificates of completion within one year; • Provide documentation to ARB that the inspections are being carried out for the next four years; • Ensure all heavy-duty diesel vehicles have their software updated with the latest low-NOx (oxides of nitrogen emissions) programming; • Instruct vehicle operators to comply with the state's idling regulations; and, • Ensure all diesel truck engines are up to federal emissions standards for the vehicle model year and are properly labeled with an emission control certification label. Bragg Investment Companies paid $31,500 in penalties: $23,625 went to the California Air Pollution Control Fund for projects and research to improve California's air quality. The Peralta Community College District received $7,875 to fund emissions education classes conducted by participating California community colleges. Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing compounds. In 1998, California identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant based on its potential to cause cancer, premature death and other health problems. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:33:58 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Napa Company fined $14,400 for emissions violations From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Biagi Bros. failed to properly inspect diesel-powered vehicles for excess emissions California Air Resources Board Release 10-18 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 24, 2010 Dimitri Stanich (916) 322-2990 www.arb.ca.gov Napa Company fined $14,400 for emissions violations SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board fined Biagi Bros. $14,400 this month for emissions violations during 2008 and 2009. An investigation by ARB showed Biagi Bros., based in Napa, Calif., failed to properly inspect their diesel-powered vehicles for excess emissions. “Diesel exhaust is the most common air toxin in California and is detrimental to public health and the environment,” said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. “Routine inspections are an essential component in reducing harmful emissions, and providing clean air for the public.” The law requires owners of California-registered truck fleets to regularly inspect their vehicles to ensure that their engine emissions meet state air quality regulations. Biagi Bros. is required to: • Guarantee employees responsible for conducting the inspections attend a training class on diesel emissions compliance testing and provide certificates of completion within one year; • Provide documentation to ARB that the inspections are being carried out for the next four years; • Ensure all heavy-duty diesel vehicles have their software updated with the latest low-NOx (oxides of nitrogen emissions) programming; • Instruct vehicle operators to comply with the state's idling regulations; and, • Ensure all diesel truck engines are up to federal emissions standards for the vehicle model year and are properly labeled with an emission control certification label. Biagi Bros. paid $14,400 in penalties: $10,800 went to the California Air Pollution Control Fund for projects and research to improve California's air quality. The Peralta Community College District received $3,600 to fund emissions education classes conducted by participating California community colleges. Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing compounds. In 1998, California identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant based on its potential to cause cancer, premature death and other health problems. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 25 Feb 2010 11:32:17 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- ARB approves measure to limit most powerful greenhouse gas From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Climate change is caused by a variety of gases and this regulation addresses California's emissions of the most powerful compound. Release 10-19 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 25, 2010 Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell www.arb.ca.gov ARB approves measure to limit most powerful greenhouse gas Regulation targets high-voltage switches using sulfur hexafluoride SACRAMENTO- Today the Air Resources Board adopted a measure developed with representatives of the electrical utilities that will limit and monitor the emissions of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) from high-voltage electrical applications. SF6 is approximately 23,900 times as potent as carbon dioxide in trapping heat in the atmosphere: one pound of SF6 emissions is equivalent to 11 tons of carbon dioxide. The regulation is designed to achieve a 70 percent reduction of SF6 emissions in electrical utility applications with a total reduction of the equivalent of 250,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide in 2020. “Although it is only used in small amounts, sulfur hexafluoride is the most potent of all the gases that cause global warming,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “This is a narrowly focused regulation that will dramatically reduce California’s emissions of this industrial chemical, at a very reasonable cost.” SF6 is a highly inert and non-corrosive gas used to insulate switches for high-voltage current applications, typically found in the transmission grid of electrical utilities. These applications constitute eighty percent of the state’s total SF6 emissions. Effective January 1, 2011, the rule sets an initial emission rate at 10 percent of owners’ SF6 capacity. Beginning in 2012 owners of switches using SF6 must reduce emissions by one percent each year, reaching an emission rate of only one percent by 2020. There are several emission reduction techniques currently available, including: • Leak detection and repair using handheld “sniffer” devices and cameras; • SF6 collection and recycling by trained and certified personnel; and, • Refurbishing or replacing existing equipment The cost of implementing this measure is estimated to be $4.5 to $7 million over the 10-year period. Consumers can expect to see this reflected with an increase of one cent per residential utility account each month. The Global Warming Solutions Act, or AB 32, signed by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2006, requires the ARB to draft and implement strategies that will reduce the state’s greenhouse gas contributions. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 25 Feb 2010 11:56:21 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- California completes its commitment to a national greenhouse gas standard for cars From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov California takes another step in the effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Release 10-20 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 25, 2010 Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell www.arb.ca.gov California completes its commitment to a national greenhouse gas standard for cars Regulation is final step in agreement announced in Rose Garden last year SACRAMENTO--California today fulfilled its commitment to establish the nation’s first ever greenhouse gas standard for passenger vehicles by allowing federal greenhouse gas standards to fully comply with California’s standards for model years 2012 to 2016. The Board’s action is the third and final step California committed to as part of an agreement with automobile manufacturers and two federal agencies announced last May by President Obama in the Rose Garden to establish the pioneering national greenhouse gas standard . "California continues to lead the nation and the world in protecting the environment and fighting climate change and I am proud our efforts serve as an example for the rest of the nation and the world," said Mary D. Nichols, chairman of the ARB. "Today’s action by the California Air Resources Board means we will see dramatic reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, more green jobs created and greater consumer choices in our state and across the nation. With a national standard modeled after California’s, a greener, cleaner future has finally arrived for us all.” The two other steps relate to compliance with the California standards in model years 2009 through 2011, prior to the initiation of the federal measure in 2012. The first allows California and the thirteen other states that had adopted California’s greenhouse gas standard to pool car sales from all 14 states instead of using a state-by-state basis for compliance; the second is a cost-reducing measure that permits existing federal data to be used to comply with California’s greenhouse gas standards for those years. The regulation adopted today allows cars that comply with the federal greenhouse gas standards for model years 2012 to 2016 to also comply with California’s standards for each of those years. The two standards differ slightly, but reach the same levels by 2016. ARB studies indicate that, as a result of the national scope of the standard, a total of 941 million tons of carbon dioxide will be prevented from entering the atmosphere by cleaner cars in all fifty states by 2020, compared to 793 million tons had the standard been limited to California and the thirteen states that had adopted California’s standard. The additional 148 million tons in reductions is the equivalent of removing about 30 million cars from the nation’s roads for a full year. A significant number of smog-forming pollutants from vehicles will also be reduced under the national standard. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 25 Feb 2010 12:18:29 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- CORRECTION - California completes its commitment to a national greenhouse gas standard for cars From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Chairman Mary D. Nichols' quote has been corrected. Release 10-20 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 25, 2010 Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell www.arb.ca.gov California completes its commitment to a national greenhouse gas standard for cars Regulation is final step in agreement announced in Rose Garden last year SACRAMENTO--California today fulfilled its commitment to establish the nation’s first ever greenhouse gas standard for passenger vehicles by allowing federal greenhouse gas standards to fully comply with California’s standards for model years 2012 to 2016. The Board’s action is the third and final step California committed to as part of an agreement with automobile manufacturers and two federal agencies announced last May by President Obama in the Rose Garden to establish the pioneering national greenhouse gas standard . “The Board’s action affirms the important role that California—and the states that adopted our standard—played in driving the development of a national greenhouse gas standard for cars,” said Mary D. Nichols, chairman of the ARB. “Starting in 2012, consumers in all 50 states will see cleaner and more efficient vehicles in dealers’ showrooms, and the nation will benefit from significantly greater reductions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants over the next decade.” The two other steps relate to compliance with the California standards in model years 2009 through 2011, prior to the initiation of the federal measure in 2012. The first allows California and the thirteen other states that had adopted California’s greenhouse gas standard to pool car sales from all 14 states instead of using a state-by-state basis for compliance; the second is a cost-reducing measure that permits existing federal data to be used to comply with California’s greenhouse gas standards for those years. The regulation adopted today allows cars that comply with the federal greenhouse gas standards for model years 2012 to 2016 to also comply with California’s standards for each of those years. The two standards differ slightly, but reach the same levels by 2016. ARB studies indicate that, as a result of the national scope of the standard, a total of 941 million tons of carbon dioxide will be prevented from entering the atmosphere by cleaner cars in all fifty states by 2020, compared to 793 million tons had the standard been limited to California and the thirteen states that had adopted California’s standard. The additional 148 million tons in reductions is the equivalent of removing about 30 million cars from the nation’s roads for a full year. A significant number of smog-forming pollutants from vehicles will also be reduced under the national standard. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 25 Feb 2010 17:18:14 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Clean-air heroes recognized From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Civic leaders honored for their contributions to clean air. Release 10-21 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 25, 2010 Dimitri Stanich desk 916-322-2825 cell- 916-3-716-8047 www.arb.ca.gov Clean-air heroes recognized California hails contributions made by three leaders SACRAMENTO: Today the Air Resources Board announced the winners of the 2010 Haagen-Smit Clean Air awards, an annual celebration to recognize outstanding efforts by individuals who protect California’s air. The 2009 award recipients are: * Dr. Timothy Johnson, Corning Incorporated – Dr. Johnson is an expert and frequent speaker on diesel-emission control technology and trends and was made an SAE (Society of Automobile Engineers) International Fellow in 2008. He was instrumental in the development of the National Clean Diesel Program which is successfully controlling pollutants from millions of legacy diesel engines operating across the United States. He is currently the co-chair for the U.S. EPA’s Advisory Working Group on Diesel Emission Control Retrofits. Dr. Johnson is also a member of the U.S. EPA Clean Air Act Advisory Committee, and the U.S. EPA Mobile Source Technical Review Subcommittee. Formerly he served on the California Air Resources Board’s International Diesel Retrofit Advisory Committee. He recently edited the book, “Diesel Filter Technology”, published by SAE International. Johnson ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols with Dr. Timothy Johnson * Ms. Margo Oge, U.S. EPA – Ms. Oge has been with the U.S. EPA since 1980 and made tremendous contributions to the area of environmental policy. Under her leadership the U.S. EPA finalized three of the nation’s most significant environmental accomplishments: the clean Tier 2 motor vehicle and Gasoline Sulfur Program; the historic 2007 diesel truck, buses and diesel fuel rule; and, the recently finalized clean off-road diesel program. These programs reduce more than 90% of the harmful pollutants emitted from cars, trucks, buses, construction, farming and industrial equipment and gasoline and diesel fuel. As a result these three rules alone are estimated to prevent more than 22,000 premature deaths and thousands of respiratory illnesses. Oge ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols with Ms Margo Oge * Dr. John Peters, University of Southern California –Dr. Peters is a leader in the area of environmental health research. Dr. Peters is the Hastings Professor of Preventive Medicine at the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine and Director of the Division of Environmental Health in the Department of Preventive Medicine. He is also an Adjunct Professor of Epidemiology in UCLA’s School of Public Health. In his over 40 year career, Dr. Peters has published over 150 research papers, reports and chapters on subjects such as the health effects of air pollution, vinyl chloride and other chemicals in both the work and general environment. He is the principal investigator of the Children's Health Study, a landmark epidemiologic investigation to identify chronic health effects from exposure to air pollution in Southern California communities, which has followed 11,000 children, for periods as long as 13 years. “These three individuals exemplify the kind of concerted effort needed to clean California’s air,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “Today we have the opportunity to thank them for their service to public health.” The awards are named after Dr. Arie J. Haagen-Smit, ARB’s first chairman and known by many as the "father" of air pollution controls. Through a series of experiments beginning in 1948, he found that most of California's smog results from photochemistry: sunlight affects the exhaust of vehicles and industry to create ozone. For his discoveries, Dr. Arie Haagen-Smit received the National Medal of Science in the Physical Sciences on October 10, 1973 from President Richard Nixon. Dr. Haagen-Smit’s breakthroughs gave us the needed inroads to combat smog, created the foundation for today's air pollution standards and allow us to now enjoy the cleanest air in California in more than fifty years. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. #### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Mon, 1 Mar 2010 17:04:13 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- ARB workshop signals start of process to envision car of the future From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Tuesday, March 2, ARB will hold a workshop in El Monte to discuss the future designs of automobiles. Release 10-22 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 1, 2010 Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell John Swanton 626-575-6965 www.arb.ca.gov ARB workshop signals start of process to envision car of the future New approach combines tailpipe and greenhouse gas emissions, draws on wide range of technologies, studies EL MONTE, Calif.—A workshop to be held in the California Air Resources Board’s El Monte office on March 2, is designed to kick off a pioneering effort to craft standards to help develop the next generation of cleaner cars. "California takes its responsibility to lead in setting environmental standards for motor vehicles very seriously,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “The time has come to move beyond dealing separately with the pollutants we have regulated successfully and the recent focus on those that are building up in the atmosphere. We need to look out more than a few years and envision the car of the future. Where better for engineers to dream about the car of the future than the state that gave us the microchip, Google and now the Tesla?” The new approach will link formerly separate standards to reduce toxic tailpipe emissions and greenhouse gas emissions into a single regulatory framework. The standards were formerly known as “LEV III” (for the third stage of the Low Emission Vehicle standards) and “Pavley II” (for the second, post-2016 stage of California’s pioneering greenhouse gas standard, established under AB 1493, the 2002 law authored by California state senator Fran Pavley). Also encompassed in the new approach are standards for zero emission vehicles, known as the ZEV regulations. “Our goal is to guide the development of even cleaner, ultra-low carbon cars that deliver performance and utility,” said Tom Cackette, the executive officer who oversees ARB’s motor vehicle programs. “This will reduce fuel costs for consumers, and help move California, and the nation, away from its dependence on petroleum and toward greater energy security.” The workshop is designed to present the widest range of technological and design options that manufacturers are currently working on to reduce emissions and increase fuel efficiency. These include improvements in hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles, full battery-electric vehicles, the use of hydrogen-powered fuel cells, vehicles that run on biofuels and other alternative low-carbon fuels, reducing the weight of the vehicle using a range of stronger and lighter materials, and approaches to keeping the interior of the car cooler (reducing the load of the air condition system to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions). The workshop comes on the heels of ARB fulfilling its final commitment [LINK to Press Release here] to an agreement announced at the White House last May. That agreement established California’s clean cars law as the national greenhouse standard. The next-generation car will have reductions of greenhouse gas emissions beyond the 30 percent mandated by that standard while continuing to improve on reductions of smog-forming pollutants. Thanks to past efforts by ARB, current tailpipe emissions of those pollutants are 99.7 percent cleaner than a car from the late 1960s. “California has set, and will continue to set, tough standards for cleaner, more efficient vehicles that the rest of the nation can follow,” said Nichols. “This successful model of state leadership will be applied in the future to continue to provide the cleanest possible cars with even greater greenhouse gas reductions.” The workshop begins March 2, at 9 AM at the Air Resources Board, 9530 Telstar Avenue, El Monte, California 91731. A webcast of the workshop is at: http://epanet.ca.gov/broadcast/?bdo=1 The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 4 Mar 2010 11:11:00 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- $15,000 settles emissions violations From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Inland Empire – based company failed to inspect its trucks. California Air Resources Board Release 10-23 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 4, 2010 Mary Fricke (916)322-3220 www.arb.ca.gov $15,000 settles emissions violations Inland Empire – based company failed to inspect its trucks Sacramento – The ARB has settled with RDO Equipment Company of Riverside, Calif., $15,000 for failing to properly self-inspect its diesel trucks to assure they meet state smoke emission standards. The violations occurred during 2008 and 2009, when RDO neglected to test, measure, record and maintain emissions records from its heavy duty fleet. The ARB considers these practices to be vital tools in helping to reduce excessive smoke emissions from mobile sources. “Every ounce of pollution counts,” said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. “Our laws exist for good reasons. All companies have to follow the rules and perform the required tests for the sake of our collective health.” As part of the settlement, RDO is required to: • Guarantee employees or contractors responsible for conducting the inspections attend a California community college training class on diesel emissions compliance testing and provide certificates of completion within one year; • Provide documentation to ARB that the inspections are being carried out through 2012; • Ensure all heavy-duty diesel vehicles have their software updated with the latest low-NOx (oxides of nitrogen emissions) programming; • Instruct vehicle operators to comply with the state's idling regulations; • Ensure all diesel truck engines are up to federal emissions standards for the vehicle model year and are properly labeled with an emissions control certification label. The company will pay $11,250 to the California Air Pollution Control Fund to support projects and research to improve California’s air quality. The remaining $3,750 will go to the Peralta Community College District to fund emissions education classes conducted by participating California community colleges. Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing compounds. In 1998, California identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant based on its potential to cause cancer, premature death and other health problems. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. # # # ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 16:58:04 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB hosts workshop to tomorrow to help businesses take advantage of the growing green economy From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Small Business Workshop. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 25, 2010 Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell www.arb.ca.gov ARB hosts workshop tomorrow to help businesses take advantage of the growing green economy Event focuses on real people with real solutions, a business to business workshop SACRAMENTO — The Air Resources Board will host a workshop in conjunction with the Green California Summit on March 16 at the Sacramento Convention Center to bring business leaders and economists together for a free workshop WHO: ARB staff, Small Business Leaders, Economists WHAT: Small Business Workshop on how to increase energy efficiency, reduce fuel use, access local assistance programs and sell green products and services. WHERE: Sacramento Convention Center WHEN: Tuesday, March 16 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information go to: http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/business/event.htm or contact Jerry Hart at (916)324-5941 or Stanley Young at (916)956-9409. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 16 Mar 2010 13:20:14 -0700 Subject: arbcombo -- ARB Chair's Seminar Series: Wednesday, March 17, 2010 1:30 pm PDT (WEBCAST) From: wfell@arb.ca.gov See announcement and presentation! “Low Emission Four-Stroke Outboard Marine Engine Utilizing Catalyst Technology”. Jeff Broman Mercury Marine, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin Wednesday, March 17, 2010 1:30 pm – 3:30pm PDT Sierra Hearing Room, 2nd Floor, Cal/EPA Building 1001 I Street, Sacramento, California Announcement and Presentation can be viewed at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/seminars/seminars.htm For “internal” users please check the internal webcast calendar at: http://epanet.ca.gov/broadcast/?bdo=1 For “external” users please check the external webcast calendar at: http://www.calepa.ca.gov/broadcast/?bdo=1 For your added convenience, while viewing the webcast, presentations can be downloaded at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/seminars/seminars.htm Your e-mail questions will be aired during the question & answer period following the presentations. Webcast Viewers, e-mail your questions to: sierrarm@calepa.ca.gov For more information on this seminar presentation please contact: Steve Church at (916) 322-8280 or schurch@arb.ca.gov For more information on this Seminar and Series please contact: Peter Mathews at (916) 323-8711 or pmathews@arb.ca.gov To receive notices for upcoming Seminars please go to: http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and sign up for the seminars list serve. You are receiving this single arbcombo email because you are a subscriber to or have made a public comment to one or more of the following lists: aaqs, aftermktcat, ag, air-quality-modeling, ccms, cc, driveclean, ej, forestry, fuels, harborcraft, hcm, icat, lcfs, levprog, maritime, motorcycle1, ms-mailings, newsrel, obdprog, offroad, onroad, orspark, pmmeasures, reactivity, recmarine, refineries, research, seminars. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to one of the lists aggregated to make this particular ARB combination listserve broadcast. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, visit the Flex Your Power website at www.fypower.org . ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:47:36 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Modesto company pays $23,000 for emissions violations From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov SMART Refrigerated Transport failed to properly inspect their diesel vehicles in 2008. Air Resources Board Release 09-24 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 17, 2010 CONTACT: Mary Fricke (916) 322-2990 www.arb.ca.gov Modesto company pays $23,000 for emissions violations SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board settled with SMART Refrigerated Transport for $23,000 this month for diesel emissions violations at its Modesto, Calif. facility. An ARB investigation showed SMART Refrigerated Transport failed to properly inspect their diesel vehicles in 2008. "Diesel exhaust is the most common air toxic pollutant in California and is a serious hazard to public health," said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. “ARB enforcement staff offer training to company employees who need current information on clean-air requirements.” The law requires owners of California-registered truck fleets to regularly inspect their vehicles to ensure that their engine emissions meet state air quality standards. SMART Refrigerated Transport is required to: • Guarantee employees responsible for conducting the inspections attend a California community college training class on diesel emissions compliance testing and provide certificates of completion within one year; • Provide documentation to ARB that the inspections are being carried out for the next four years; • Ensure all heavy-duty diesel vehicles have their software updated with the latest low-NOx (oxides of nitrogen emissions) programming; • Instruct vehicle operators to comply with the state's idling regulations and other applicable regulations; and, • Ensure all diesel truck engines are up to federal emissions standards for the vehicle model year and are properly labeled with an emission control certification label. SMART Refrigerated Transport paid $23,000 in penalties: $17,250 went to the California Air Pollution Control Fund for projects and research to improve California's air quality. The Peralta Community College District received $5,750 to fund emissions education classes conducted by participating California community colleges. Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing compounds. In 1998, California identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant based on its potential to cause cancer, premature death and other health problems. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:59:40 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board unveils $3.7 million in rebates for clean vehicles From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Incentives speed the introduction of advanced technology. Release 10-25 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 17, 2010 Mary Fricke (916)322-3220 www.arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board unveils $3.7 million in rebates for clean vehicles Incentives speed the introduction of advanced technology SACRAMENTO – Today the California Air Resources Board announced $3.7 million in rebates for zero-emission and plug-in hybrid vehicle rebates for California drivers as part of an overall $42.3 million program that Governor Schwarzenegger approved in 2007 to spur technological innovation in the transportation sector. The rebates offer up to $5,000 for the purchase of zero-emission and plug-in hybrid light-duty vehicles and up to $20,000 for the purchase of ARB-certified or approved zero-emission commercial vehicles on a first-come, first-served basis. Funding for the program comes from a dedicated revenue stream that draws from smog abatement, vehicle registration, and vessel registration fees. “These rebates will make cleaner cars more affordable for California consumers and give businesses and local governments an incentive to add advanced vehicles to their fleets,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “The monies get innovative vehicle technologies on the road more quickly so California can meet its clean air and climate change goals.” Rebates are available to individuals, business owners and government entities in California that purchase or lease new eligible zero-emission or plug-in hybrid electric light-duty vehicles now. Eligible vehicles are cars, trucks, commercial medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, motorcycles or neighborhood electric vehicles. In October 2007, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed AB 118 which provides approximately $200 million annually through 2015 to the California Energy Commission, the Bureau of Automotive Repair and the ARB to fund air quality improvement projects that will accelerate clean engine technologies. ARB was appropriated approximately $42.3 million to fund air quality improvement programs that will pay for cleaner equipment such as hybrid truck and buses, zero-emission and plug-in hybrid cars, and motorcycles. The amount of funding available to pay for these technologies is dependent on the amount of revenues generated from vehicle and smog abatement fees. Cars and trucks account for over half of the emissions that contribute to ozone and particulate matter as well as about 30 percent of the total greenhouse gas emissions in California. Zero-emission vehicles and near-zero emission vehicles are a key element of California's plan for attaining health-based air quality as required in the federal Clean Air Act. Exhaust from cars and trucks have been known to exacerbate a variety of conditions such as lung and heart disease, and asthma, and even contribute to premature death. Cleaner vehicles reduce California smog and climate change emissions, and save consumers money. A complete list of eligible vehicles, application and rebate instructions can be found at: http://cvrp.energycenter.org To learn more about what you can do to reduce your individual greenhouse gas emissions, visit ARB’s carbon calculator at http://www.coolcalifornia.org The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:13:47 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Mary D Nichols letter to Sen Dutton 3-17-10 From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols sent the following letter today to State Senator Dutton explaining timing and opportunities for public comment on ARB staff economic analysis of AB 32. March 17, 2010 Honorable Bob Dutton California State Senate California State Capitol, Room 5094 Sacramento, California 95814 Dear Senator Dutton: Thank you for your letter of March 1, 2010, expressing your concerns about the implementation of AB 32 and the status of our updated economic analysis. As you may be aware, Air Resources Board (ARB) staff will be presenting an updated analysis of implementation of the Climate Change Scoping Plan at the March 25 Air Resources Board meeting. We also plan to hold an all day event for our Board in April that will allow interested parties to participate in a panel discussion of ARB’s and other economic analyses of the implementation of AB 32. I would welcome your participation in that discussion, and will share additional information as the details for the event are developed. While your letter suggests that we are implementing the Scoping Plan without consideration of the potential economic impacts, I assure you that every regulation that comes to our Board has an analysis with it that considers the economic costs and benefits of that regulation. While the Scoping Plan provided the broad policy direction for achieving the goals that the Legislature and Governor set for California in AB 32, the implementation of the measures in the Plan is being done through the State’s formal rulemaking procedures, including working with all stakeholders during the development of the regulations and the analysis of their economic and environmental impacts. We have not and cannot adopt regulations to implement any of the measures in the Scoping Plan without a regulation-specific economic analysis. Last May, Environmental Protection Secretary Linda Adams and I appointed the Economic and Allocation Advisory Committee (EAAC), comprised of economic, financial, and policy experts with the various backgrounds and experiences. Part of our direction to EAAC was to interact with and advise the ARB staff as the economic analysis was updated. Secretary Adams and I believe that such an interactive peer review process is the best way to ensure that the updated analysis is strong and robust. ARB staff has been working closely with EAAC since the committee was appointed. As you note, the Board had requested the updated economic analysis of the Scoping Plan by December 31, 2009. However, last November, the EAAC requested that its members and ARB staff be given more time to complete the work. The EAAC’s focus last summer and fall was on the other task that we had given them – providing recommendations to the Board on the distribution of allowances and use of potential auction revenue within the cap-and-trade program. At the EAAC meeting on November 18, 2009, Professor Larry Goulder, the chairman of EAAC, noted that the EAAC members had, at that point, focused almost exclusively on the allocation recommendations, and had not yet found the time to focus on the updated economic analysis work that ARB staff had underway. He noted that while staff was on track to release an updated analysis in time for the December Board meeting, he believed that it would be prudent for the Board to allow staff additional time to work with the EAAC members to produce a more robust analysis that reflected the input and recommendations of the economic experts on EAAC. Finally, I would like to emphasize that the work that California is doing to implement AB 32 is helping point the way toward investing in a clean energy future for California. I firmly believe that California’s investments in energy efficiency and alternative fuels will help maintain our long-term economic health by reducing our susceptibility to volatile oil and natural gas prices. As we look for ways to move out of the current economic down-turn, it would be a mistake to lose this opportunity for California to take the lead in creating the new fuels and technologies that the world will need in coming decades. Should you have any further questions or comments, please feel free to contact Kevin Kennedy, Assistant Executive Officer at the Air Resources Board, at (916) 322-6964 or kmkenned@arb.ca.gov. Sincerely, Mary D. Nichols ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Mon, 22 Mar 2010 11:22:10 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- CARB Chairman issues statement on flawed industry study of AB32 From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Industry report findings questioned. Release 10-26 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 22, 2010 Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell www.arb.ca.gov CARB Chairman issues statement on flawed industry study of AB32 SACRAMENTO- Chairman of the California Air Resources Board issued the following statement on the study released today by the AB 32 Implementation Group on the implementation of AB 32, California's climate plan: "This study was conducted by a group dedicated to protecting oil companies and fighting environmental laws that hold them accountable for polluting our environment. It comes as no surprise that their findings support oil companies and oppose clean energy laws Californians overwhelming support. The California public isn't going to fall for the claim that continued dependence on imported oil is better for the economy than switching to more energy efficient vehicles and cleaner renewable energy which will result in green technology job creation and a cleaner environment." The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 09:14:17 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Media Advisory: ARB to roll out economic analysis From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols will discuss analysis. Release 10-27 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 23, 2010 Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell www.arb.ca.gov ARB to roll out economic analysis SACRAMENTO: ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols and economic experts will announce the findings of the comprehensive economic analysis of the implementation of the state’s climate change program, AB32, Wednesday morning over a conference call with news media. WHO: ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols WHAT: Overview of economic analysis supporting AB32 WHEN: 11 a.m., Wednesday, March 24 CALL-IN: 1(888)391-6586, passcode is “economic” NOTE: This call is for news media only. Anyone attempting to join without media credentials will be dropped from the call. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 11:10:03 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- SUPERVISOR RIDLEY-THOMAS LAUNCHES ENERGY MAKEOVER WEEK IN LENNOX AREA From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov An unprecedented collaboration of environmental experts and public utilities to launch a week-long series of programs in the Lennox area . FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 23, 2010 Contact: Aurelio Rojas 213-280-6579 James Bolden 213-200-5314 SUPERVISOR RIDLEY-THOMAS LAUNCHES ENERGY MAKEOVER WEEK IN LENNOX AREA LOS ANGELES -- Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas today joined an unprecedented collaboration of environmental experts and public utilities to launch a week-long series of programs in the Lennox area that will help businesses and residents reduce energy use. During the next couple of days, Southern California Edison, West Basin Water District and the Golden State Water Company will install energy and water conservation resources, including new lighting, refrigeration and heating, low-flush toilets and kitchen resources, in more than 90 businesses. Supervisor Ridley-Thomas said the goal is to demonstrate how small businesses can easily achieve about 15 to 20 percent in energy savings with retrofits and taking advantage of available resources. “Our energy makeover will demonstrate that small communities can improve their carbon footprint and benefit their bottom line through minor improvements in their homes and businesses,” Supervisor Ridley-Thomas said during the kickoff event at a shopping center in Lennox. Joining Supervisor Ridley-Thomas were Mary Nichols, California Air Resources Board; Kelly McDowell, Chair of the South Bay Council of Governments; Dave Ford, Southern California Edison; Gloria Gray, West Basin Water District; Shad Rezai, Golden State Water; and Luis Perez, owner of the Los Tapatios Market. "Energy makeovers are coming to communities around the state,” Ms. Nichols said. “Thanks to astute local leaders, Lennox stands to be a winner." Lennox is located in Southwest Los Angeles County northeast of the 405 and 105 Freeways. Residents are subjected to high levels of pollution and aircraft and automobile related noise. Supervisor Ridley-Thomas has made improving the environment and generating jobs in the Second District top priorities. He said that in addition to reducing energy use, efforts like those in Lennox help to promote green technology. “This is an effort to drive good, green and local jobs – jobs you can’t outsource,” he said. ” # # # ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 24 Mar 2010 10:11:31 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- MEDIA ADVISORY: Call with economist members of committee that reviewed CARB's AB 32 Economic Analysis From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov The call will be hosted by the Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University. Release 10-29 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 24, 2010 Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell www.arb.ca.gov Call with economist members of committee that reviewed CARB's AB 32 Economic Analysis SACRAMENTO: The call will be hosted by the Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University WHO: Larry Goulder, chair of the Economic and Allocation Advisory Committee (EAAC) Jim Bushnell, chair of the economic subcommittee of EAAC WHAT: To discuss EAAC's review of the Economic Analysis of the Implementation of AB 32 by the California Air Resources Board WHEN: 12 PM, Wednesday March 24 CALL-IN: 800-369-1612, passcode is: "ANALYSIS S" The call will be hosted by the Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University NOTE: This call is for news media only. Anyone attempting to join without media credentials will be dropped from the call. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 24 Mar 2010 11:01:53 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- AB 32 Will Lead To Job Growth, Energy Savings, and Rises In Personal Income From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Pursuing AB 32 reductions will benefits state's economy. Release 10-28 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 24, 2010 Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell www.arb.ca.gov AB 32 Will Lead To Job Growth, Energy Savings, and Rises In Personal Income SACRAMENTO — The California Air Resources Board released an updated economic analysis today that forecasts robust economic growth as the state continues implementing AB 32, focusing primarily on energy efficiency and fuel diversification measures. “This analysis confirms what economists have been saying all along: that full implementation of the Scoping Plan is the right choice for California to make an affordable transition to a clean energy economy,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “It supports continued economic growth and sets us on a course for greater energy security and less dependence on petroleum.” The analysis shows the following key findings: • Fuel expenditures drop by 4.9 percent in 2020, with a total cost savings of $3.8 billion in reduced consumption of gasoline and diesel, as a result of increased investment in energy efficiency and cleaner fuels. • Two million jobs will be created by 2020, the result of a sustained growth in labor demand of .9 percent each year, which is consistent with the business-as-usual case. • The economy, including personal income, will continue to grow at a rate of 2.4 percent per year. • Offsets in a cap-and-trade program help to reduce costs. • Divergence from the AB 32 Scoping Plan (i.e. limiting requirements for oil companies or utilities), increases costs and shifts them to Californians and small businesses. The updated economic analysis was carefully reviewed by the 16-member Economic and Allocation Advisory Committee (EAAC), an independent panel of policy, business and economic experts established last May. The EAAC advised ARB staff during the analysis and also contributed its own peer review of the analysis which appears as an appendix to the final report. Economic analyses are conducted to show the impacts of making different policy choices in order to identify possible risks and to provide insights into which aspects of the program are most cost-effective. The full report will be posted at www.arb.ca.gov. For more information on the EAAC, go to www.climatechange.ca.gov/eaac/index.html. On Thursday, March 25, 2010 members of the ARB will hear presentations from staff and the EAAC on the updated economic analysis. In April, ARB will hold a public meeting that will allow interested parties to participate in a panel discussion of ARB’s and other economic analyses of AB 32 implementation. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:06:17 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- AB 32 economic analysis now available. From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov The report is now available at link below. http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/scopingplan/economics-sp/economics-sp.htm ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 25 Mar 2010 16:27:04 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Statement from ARB Executive Officer James N. Goldstene on Cool Cars Regulation: From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov AB32 “cool cars” rulemaking will cease. Release 10-29 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 25, 2010 Contact: Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell www.arb.ca.gov Statement from ARB Executive Officer James N. Goldstene on Cool Cars Regulation: SACRAMENTO - Following the June 2009 Board adoption of the cool cars regulation, stakeholders raised several new issues involving performance of electronic devices as they may affect public safety. After listening to this input and accounting for the legal deadline to finalize the rule, today we are announcing that the AB32 “cool cars” rulemaking will cease. Instead, the Board will pursue a performance-based approach as part of its vehicle climate change program to reduce CO2 from air conditioning and provide cooler car interiors for California motorists The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 30 Mar 2010 11:05:19 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- West Sacramento company settles with ARB for $32,550 for diesel emissions violations From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Diesel exhaust creates 70 percent of the airborne carcinogens in California's air. Release 10-29 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 30, 2010 Dimitri Stanich 916-322-2825 www.arb.ca.gov West Sacramento company settles with ARB for $32,550 for diesel emissions violations SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board last month came to terms with a West Sacramento, Calif. produce company for $32,550 for failing to submit its TRU facility report. ARB investigators found that NorCal Produce did not submit the required facility report by the 2006 deadline, as required by the transport refrigeration unit air toxic control measure. “California is leading the way on air quality,” said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. “By monitoring diesel emissions the state can set an example for the nation.” Under the penalty, NorCal Produce must: • Ensure that staff responsible for compliance with the diesel truck emission inspection program attend diesel education courses and provide certificates of completion within one year; • Instruct vehicle operators to comply with the state’s idling regulations; • Complete heavy-duty diesel engine software and control technology upgrades in compliance with regulations; • Supply all smoke inspection records to ARB for the next four years; and, • Properly label engines to ensure compliance with the engine emissions certification program regulations. The California Air Pollution Control Fund, established to mitigate various sources of pollution through education and the advancement and use of cleaner technology, will receive $24,113, and the remaining $8,137 will go to the Peralta Community College District to fund diesel education classes around the state. Failure to inspect diesel vehicles can lead to an increase in harmful airborne particles that Californians breathe. In 1998, the ARB listed diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant in order to protect public health. Exposure to diesel emissions can increase the risk of asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory diseases, and contribute to premature death. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 30 Mar 2010 16:09:32 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- MEDIA ADVISORY : ARB Chairman To Applaud White House on National Clean Cars Rule From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov ARB Chairman To Applaud White House on National Clean Cars Rule . Release 10-31 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 30, 2010 Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell www.arb.ca.gov MEDIA ADVISORY: ARB Chairman To Applaud White House on National Clean Cars Rule LOS ANGELES: California Air Resources Board Chairman Mary D. Nichols will join state senator Fran Pavley and representatives of environmental organizations at a press conference to provide reaction to the Obama administration’s expected unveiling on Thursday of new federal standards for automobile fuel economy and global warming emissions. These new standards are based on the “clean cars program” developed by California. As a result of California’s leadership, all fifty states will now benefit from cleaner, more efficient cars WHO: Mary D. Nichols, Chairman, Air Resources Board Senator Fran Pavley Representatives of Environment California, Coalition for Clean Air, Sierra Club and Bluewater Network/Friends of the Earth WHAT: Press Conference WHEN: April 1, 2010, 11:00 am WHERE: Petersen Automotive Museum 6060 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, 90036 GREAT VISUALS: Alternative fuel cars on display at museum The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 1 Apr 2010 12:34:51 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- CARB Chairman Applauds White House for National Clean Cars Rule From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov "Consumers in all fifty states can benefit from cleaner, more efficient cars." Release 10-32 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 1, 2010 Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell www.arb.ca.gov CARB Chairman Applauds White House for National Clean Cars Rule SACRAMENTO—California Air Resources Board Chairman Mary D. Nichols issued the following statement today after the Obama Administration announced it had adopted a national clean cars rule modeled after California's first-in-the-nation vehicle emissions standard: "Today's final step in fulfilling a commitment President Obama made when he ran shows what can be accomplished when states take the lead and the federal government backs them up. For eight long years California and the thirteen other states that adopted our tough standards led the way. This action by the White House now means consumers in all fifty states can benefit from cleaner, more efficient cars.” On February 25, California took the final step to complete its commitment to the agreement announced last May by the Obama Administration to establish national greenhouse gas and fuel efficiency standards. (See the February 25, 2010 ARB press release for details of that action by ARB.) The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 22 Apr 2010 16:36:38 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB considers options for additional flexibility in diesel control regulations From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Recognizing the economic climate ARB is seeking strategies to balance public health with the needs of a battered industry. Release 10-33 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 22, 2010 Karen Caesar 626-575-6728 desk 626-818-0145 cell www.arb.ca.gov ARB considers options for additional flexibility in diesel control regulations New relief for on-road and off-road engine rules to be considered at September hearing SACRAMENTO: The Air Resources Board today began the formal process to revise its strategy for the clean-up of on- and off-road diesel engines by directing staff to return in September with specific proposals to provide additional flexibility. “We fully recognize that the economy has had an effect on the owners and operators of big rigs, buses and construction equipment, and has also resulted in emissions from these vehicles being lower than we expected,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. ”We are committed to taking those impacts into consideration for our diesel clean-up program.” “The direction by the Board today,” added Nichols, “will result in additional flexibility to affected companies and individuals, while still continuing to achieve the significant air quality and health benefits these diesel controls will deliver.” The Board has asked staff to draft changes to the regulations that will mitigate the potential effects of an unfavorable economy on affected businesses, while keeping in mind the need to protect public health, meet federal clean air deadlines, and continue moving forward even through uncertain times. The Board also directed staff to consider approaches to give credit to firms that have already complied with the regulations, and to examine the possibility of additional loans and incentive funding for the program. Staff presented an update on diesel emission estimates, and the approach for incorporating new information on diesel fuel use, emission factors and equipment use. A new emissions estimate will be used in the rule revision process. ARB staff will conduct a series of workshops in May and June in Los Angeles, Sacramento and Fresno with stakeholders and the public to solicit information about proposed revisions to the regulations that will be presented to the Board in September. ARB has already extended deadlines for off-road equipment owners through AB8 2X (signed by the Governor in February 2009), including delayed compliance and credits for those who have reduced their fleet size or operating hours in response to the recession. In addition, ARB will continue its program of financial support to help owners and operators of these trucks and equipment. Over $100 million in Proposition 1B funds alone have been allocated for cleaning up on-road diesel trucks through retrofits or replacement. Additional funds have been made available through the Carl Moyer Grant Program, along with loans via AB 118 and federal stimulus funds. Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing compounds. In 1998, California identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant based on its potential to cause cancer, premature death and other health problems. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 5 May 2010 09:28:14 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- FAQs for Greenhouse gas emissions reduction regulation (SmartWay) From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Regulation. NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 5, 2010 CONTACTS: Mary Fricke (916) 322-2990 Karen Caesar (626)575-6728 www.arb.ca.gov California Truckin’ News Greenhouse gas emissions reduction regulation (SmartWay) Frequently Asked Questions If you have noticed the sleek, modern appearance of big-rig tractors and trailers traveling down the highway lately, you are not imagining things. These new big-rig tractors and trailers have side skirting on the undercarriage and tires that provide less air resistance and promote a smoother, more fuel-efficient ride. California adopted its heavy duty diesel greenhouse gas emissions reduction regulation in December 2008. Its goal is to improve fuel economy and lower greenhouse gas emissions from long-haul trucks, hence their new, streamlined appearance. The Air Resources Board estimates the regulation will save truckers about $8.6 billion, as well as 750 million gallons of diesel fuel in California and 5 billion gallons of diesel fuel nationwide between the years 2010 and 2020. Individual fleet owners can expect an annual fuel savings of $3,250 to $4,060 per tractor-trailer combination that will take an estimated 1 to 2.3 years to pay for itself, making the purchase extremely cost effective. The regulation utilizes elements of the US EPA’s “SmartWay” program, which calls for environmentally cleaner, more fuel efficient transportation options to be made available to the trucking industry. ARB has collected the most commonly asked questions and answers about this new technology and regulation below. Who needs to comply with the regulation? The regulation applies to all owners of 53-foot or longer box-type trailers, including both dry-van and refrigerated-van trailers, and the owners of heavy-duty tractors that pull them on California highways. Besides the owners of these vehicles, drivers, motor carriers, California-based brokers and California-based shippers may also be held responsible for compliance with the regulation. Do I still need to comply with the regulation if my vehicle is registered outside of California? All owners, regardless of where their vehicles are registered, must meet the requirements of the regulation when they drive their vehicles on California highways. Besides the owners of these vehicles, drivers, motor carriers, California-based brokers and California-based shippers may also be held responsible for meeting the requirements of the regulation. What equipment will meet the requirements of the regulation? Tractor owners: Owners of 2010 or older tractors are responsible for replacing or retrofitting their tractors with compliant U.S. EPA SmartWay Program (SmartWay) low rolling resistance tires. For 2011 or newer tractors must be purchased SmartWay certified. Trailer owners: Trailer owners are responsible for replacing or retrofitting their trailers with compliant U.S. EPA SmartWay Program (SmartWay) aerodynamic technologies and low rolling resistance tires. Some examples of these technologies are: • Trailer rear fairings; • Trailer front gap fairings; • Trailer side skirts For a detailed listing of SmartWay approved low rolling resistance tires and aerodynamic technologies go to http://www.epa.gov/smartway/transport/what-smartway/verified-technologies.htm Is there financial assistance available to help purchase this equipment? Yes. ARB’s Heavy-Duty Vehicle Air Quality Loan Program may be able to provide assistance to comply with the regulation. More information is available at: www.arb.ca.gov/ba/loan/on-road/on-road.htm Also, the SmartWay program offers financial assistance information through the SmartWay Finance Center which is available at: http://www.smartwayfinancecenter.com/ What is the difference between the trailer requirements for small and large fleets and what are the large and small fleet compliance provisions? A small fleet is defined as a fleet with 20 or less trailers while a large fleet is defined as having more than 21 trailers. Small fleets need to register all 20 or less trailers in their fleet in order to qualify for the small fleet provision while large fleets only need to register their California bound trailers to qualify for the large fleet provision. The small fleet provision is a phase-in schedule between the years of 2014 to 2017 in which the total percentage of trailers must meet the requirements of the regulation. (See table below*) In order for small fleets to take advantage of this provision, they must submit a Small Fleet Compliance Plan by July 1, 2012. The large fleet provision is a phase-in schedule between the years of 2010 and 2016 in which registration is required for only California bound trailers. (See table below*) In order to take advantage of this compliance option, large fleets must submit a Large Fleet Compliance Plan by July 1, 2010. Both of the small and large fleet provisions apply to 2010 and older box-type trailers that travel in California. Small Fleet Compliance Schedule Must comply before January 1 of: 2014 2015 2016 2017 % of Trailer Fleet That Must Comply 25% 50% 75% 100% Large Fleet Compliance Schedule Must comply before January 1 of: That Must 1 of: 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 % of Trailer Fleet That Must Comply 5% 15% 30% 50% 75% 100% What are the requirements of the regulation and when must I comply? The model year of the vehicle, the requirement(s ) and deadlines to comply are listed in the tables below: For tractors: Model year Requirement(s) Deadline • 2011 and newer sleeper-cab tractors Sleeper-cab tractors that pull trailers must be SmartWay certified Beginning January 1, 2010 • 2011 and newer day-cab tractors Day-cab tractors that pull affected trailers must use SmartWay verified low rolling resistance tires Beginning January 1, 2010 • All pre-2011 tractors that pull affected trailers Affected trailers must use SmartWay verified low rolling resistance tires Beginning January 1, 2012 For trailers: Model year Requirement(s) Deadline • 2011 and newer 53-foot or longer box-type trailers Trailers must be either SmartWay certified or retrofitted with SmartWay verified technologies that meet 5% fuel efficiency for dry vans and a 4% fuel efficiency improvement for a refrigerated van and low rolling resistance tires Beginning January 1, 2010 • Pre-2011 53-foot or longer box-type trailers (with the exception of certain 2003 to 2008 refrigerated-van trailers) Box-type trailers must meet the same requirements as 2011 and newer trailers • By January 1, 2013 or • Owners can phase-in compliance of their fleet over a period of time but must register by: July 1, 2010 for large fleets and; July 1, 2012 for small fleets • 2003 to 2008 refrigerated-van trailers equipped with 2003 or subsequent transport refrigeration units or TRUs Meet the same requirements as 2011 and newer trailers • Between the years of 2017 and 2019 What types of equipment do not have to comply with this regulation? • Curtain side vans; • Military tactical vehicles; • Solid waste vehicles; • Authorized emergency vehicles; • Container chassis; • Drayage tractors and trailers that operate within a 100 mile radius of a port or intermodal rail yard; and, • Drop frame vans. Are there any special exceptions to this regulation? Yes. Short-haul tractors that drive less than 50,000 miles per year are exempt from the regulation. Local-haul tractors and trailers that operate within a 100 mile radius from a home base are exempt from the aerodynamics requirements, but not from the tire requirements. Short-haul tractors, local-haul tractors and trailers need to be registered with ARB in order to obtain this exemption. Further information about the specific technologies that have been certified or verified by the SmartWay program can be found by contacting : SmartWay Partnership Program SmartWay Call Center: (734) 214-4767 Address: 2000 Traverwood Ann Arbor, MI 48105 Email: smartway_transport@epa.gov Web: www.epa.gov/smartway/ Are there going to be any additional changes or modifications made to the regulation? Yes. ARB will be recommending regulatory modifications to the Board in fall of 2010. These recommendations include providing an additional phase-in option for large fleets, allowing them additional time to register and report their activity; to allow fleets to report compliance activity on an annual basis; and the creation of a new exemption for storage trailers. In addition, other minor modifications to the regulation will also be proposed. Where can I learn more? A summary of the regulation is available on the ARB website at www.arb.ca.gov/cc/hdghg/hdghg.htm and at the ARB Truck Stop website at www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/truckstop/trailers/trailers.php Further help with the regulation is also available by calling ARB’s diesel hotline at (866) 6DIESEL (634-3735) or by email at 866DIESEL@arb.ca.gov. ### Columnist, Tony Brasil is the manager of ARB’s Heavy Duty Diesel Implementation Branch. While he cannot answer every question, he will select several to answer each month. To contact Tony, please email CATruckinQandA@ARB.ca.gov ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 19 May 2010 11:24:05 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Over $86,000 in settlement funds go to community colleges, clean-air fund From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Settlements benefit education and air quality projects, research. Release 10-34 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 19, 2010 Karen Caesar 626-575-6728 desk 626-818-0145 cell www.arb.ca.gov Over $86,000 in settlement funds go to community colleges, clean-air fund Settlements benefit education and air quality projects, research SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board distributed more than $86,000 to community colleges and a state clean-air fund in April as a result of settlements with companies that violated clean air laws. The violations included failure to conduct smoke inspection tests, comply with trash truck regulations and install certified emissions reduction equipment on diesel engines. “Diesel emissions are a serious health threat to those who live – and work – near these vehicles,” said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. “Compliance with state rules ensures that these emissions are kept in check. We’re glad that these settlements will benefit community colleges and clean-air research and education.” These settlements, totaling $86,100, will be distributed to the California Air Pollution Control Fund and the Peralta Community College District. The fund will receive $64,575 for projects and research to improve California's air quality. The remaining $21,525 will go to the college district to fund emissions education classes conducted by participating California community colleges around the state. These settlements were the result of the following violations: Failure to properly inspect their diesel vehicles, as required by California law, between 2005 and 2009: * Eggelton Trucking of Temecula, Calif. ($6,000) * Stidham Trucking Inc. of Yreka, Calif. ($25,500) * Gill Brothers Trucking Inc. of Fresno, Calif. ($7,000) * Drake Farms Trucking of San Luis Obispo, Calif. ($7,500) Failure to properly inspect diesel-powered vehicles between 2007 and 2008; and, neglecting to install proper emission-reduction devices, required by law: * California Waste Solutions, of Oakland and San Jose, Calif. ($6,500) * Eel River Disposal Company, of Fortuna, Calif. ($9,600) Installing illegal diesel exhaust retrofits on customer vehicles in 2007 and 2008: * Cummins West Inc., of San Leandro, Calif. ($24,000) Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing compounds. In 1998, California identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant based on its potential to cause cancer, premature death and other health problems. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 19 May 2010 11:33:12 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB settles air quality violations with Massachusetts company for $55,500 From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Settlement funds to be split between Peralta Community College and clean-air fund. Release 10-35 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 19, 2010 Karen Caesar 626-575-6728 desk 626-818-0145 cell www.arb.ca.gov ARB settles air quality violations with Massachusetts company for $55,500 Settlement funds to be split between Peralta Community College and clean-air fund SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board last month settled with a Norwell, Mass., heavy-duty diesel fleet for $55,500 for failing to inspect its trucks for compliance with smoke emissions standards at fleet centers throughout the state. ARB investigators found that Clean Harbors Environmental Services, failed to conduct diesel truck smoke tests in 2008 and 2009, as required by state law. Clean Harbors provides environmental services and emergency response for the transportation industry. “Trucking in California requires fleet owners ensure that their rigs are clean,” said ARB Enforcement Chief Jim Ryden. “Failure to meet emissions standards jeopardizes public health and also creates an unfair playing field for those companies who follow the law.” Under the settlement, Clean Harbors must: * Ensure that staff responsible for compliance with the diesel truck emission inspection program attend diesel education courses and provide certificates of completion within one year; * Instruct vehicle operators to comply with the state’s idling regulations; * Complete heavy-duty diesel engine software and control technology upgrades in compliance with regulations; * Supply all smoke inspection records to ARB for the next four years; and, * Properly label engines to ensure compliance with engine emissions certification regulations. The California Air Pollution Control Fund, established to mitigate various sources of pollution through education and the advancement and use of cleaner technology, will receive $41,625, and the remaining $13,875 will go to the Peralta Community College District to fund diesel education classes throughout the state. Failure to inspect diesel vehicles can lead to an increase in harmful airborne particles that Californians breathe. In 1998, the ARB listed diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant in order to protect public health. Exposure to diesel emissions can increase the risk of asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory diseases. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 19 May 2010 11:56:52 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- $28 million funding assistance program is expanded to help more independent truckers From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Changes designed to help small California-based fleets and owners . California Air Resources Board Release 10-36 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 19, 2010 Contact: Mary Salas Fricke (916) 322-2990 www.arb.ca.gov $28 million funding assistance program is expanded to help more independent truckers Changes designed to help small California-based fleets and owners SACRAMENTO – The Air Resources Board approved changes to an existing $28 million financial assistance program this week that will significantly help more California independent truckers qualify for the purchase of a cleaner-running vehicle. The changes made to the statewide Voucher Incentive Program, also known as the VIP, will make funding available to a larger variety of trucks that will help owners comply early with the statewide truck and bus regulation passed in 2008. VIP, which is part of the Carl Moyer air quality program, is a streamlined, diesel on-road voucher program that helps the small independent truck owner get a cleaner-running truck sooner. “The board understands the need to expand our financial assistance programs and these changes give more small fleet and individual truck owners access to money to clean up their vehicles,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “This will help a lot of small business owners comply with the law, and also ensure we continue the state's efforts to fight pollution from diesel trucks and clean up the air." The program is geared to help small California-based fleets replace their older, polluting trucks with newer, cleaner models. Approximately $28 million is available through the program to fund truck replacements or exhaust retrofits statewide. Specific changes to VIP are: • Medium heavy-duty trucks with a gross vehicle weight of 19,501 pounds and above now qualify. Previously, only heavy-heavy-duty trucks with a declared vehicle weight greater than 60,000 pounds qualified; • Trucks with mileage as low as 15,000 miles per year are now eligible. Previously, a truck had to operate a minimum of 30,000 miles per year or consume 4,700 gallons of diesel fuel per year during the previous two years; • High-mileage trucks can get up to $45,000 in voucher money. Previously, the maximum amount of a voucher was $35,000; • Trucks with 2002 and older engines may qualify for a newer truck. Previously, only trucks with 1993 and older engines were eligible; and, • New funding option of up to $10,000 per truck for an exhaust retrofit. Participating truck dealerships or retrofit installers can help business owners check eligibility and apply for a voucher. Grants are made on a first-come, first-served basis and qualifying applications are reviewed and approved within five business days. For a list of participating dealerships and installers, go to: http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/moyer/voucher/dealerlist/dealerlist.htm VIP is part of the state’s overall plan to cut toxic diesel emissions 85 percent by 2020. In December 2008, ARB adopted statewide clean truck and bus regulations to bring California closer to meeting federally mandated air-quality standards and deadlines. California is currently working toward meeting clean-air standards for ozone and particulate matter emissions. For additional program information, see: www.truckstop.arb.ca.gov or call ARB’s diesel hotline at 1-866-6DIESEL. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Mon, 24 May 2010 09:21:15 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB Chair Praises Obama Administration for Program to Advance Next Generation of Clean Vehicles From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov ARB Chair Praises Obama Administration for Program to Advance Next Generation of Clean Vehicles. Release 10-37 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 24, 2010 Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell www.arb.ca.gov ARB Chair Praises Obama Administration for Program to Advance Next Generation of Clean Vehicles SACRAMENTO-- California Air Resources Board Chairman Mary D. Nichols issued the following statement regarding the announcement and signing of a memorandum by President Obama on May 21, 2010 in the Rose Garden about car and truck greenhouse gas emission and fuel economy standards. In addition, ARB released two documents: 1: A statement about Light Duty Vehicle standards 2: A letter to Administrator Jackson and Secretary LaHood on medium- and heavy-duty standards. (Text of both is embedded below following Chairman Nichols' statement) "The California Air Resources Board applauds President Obama’s announcement of the first-ever national policy to increase fuel efficiency and decrease greenhouse gas pollution from medium- and heavy-duty trucks for model years 2014-2018. Such a national program could reduce as much as 250 million metric tons of CO2 and save up to approximately 500 million barrels of oil over the lifetime of the vehicles and achieve approximately $70 billion in fuel savings," said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. " California will also continue to stand side by side with the Obama administration to help advance the vision of the next generation of cleaner, more efficient cars," she continued. "As we move forward into the second phase of this program, California will continue to lead, and develop, with federal agencies and others, innovative, cost-effective and technologically feasible standards to make cleaner cars and trucks a reality." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ May 21, 2010 Statement of the California Air Resources Board Regarding Future Passenger Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emission Standards Under the Clean Air Act, Congress gave California a leadership role in the area of motor vehicle regulations. For over 40 years, California has fulfilled this role by adopting pioneering motor vehicle emissions standards the other States are permitted to follow. California has been, and will continue to be, a major market for new motor vehicles, especially those with innovative designs and technologies. In 2004, California became the first state in the Nation to adopt greenhouse gas emissions standards for motor vehicles. California is deeply committed to continuing in its efforts to achieve the steep reductions in greenhouse gases needed to stabilize the planet’s temperature. California recognizes the benefit of a harmonized national program addressing vehicle greenhouse gas emissions and fuel economy. California supports the emission regulations and fuel economy standards jointly adopted by United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and United States Department of Transportation’s National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), announced on April 1, 2010, for model year 2012-2016 passenger vehicles. California has incorporated these national standards into its motor vehicle emissions program. These new standards, however, must be followed by additional action in order to continue the impressive reductions already in place up to 2016. The process for developing new standards must begin now so that the automobile industry will have ample time to develop and implement the technologies needed to further reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve fuel economy. In exercising its longstanding Clean Air Act authority, California has initiated first steps to develop the next combined emission standards for both criteria and greenhouse gas pollutants for model years 2017-2025. Workshops have been held and more are planned for the summer of 2010. The goal, as with California’s model year 2009-2016 emission standards, is that compliance with new national standards after 2016 may serve to meet the new 2017-2025 model years California standards. To help advance the national process and achieve the broadest applicability of new standards for 2017 and beyond, California commits to work in partnership with EPA and NHTSA to develop a staff technical assessment to inform future rulemaking that includes the following: · Evaluation of emerging technologies to further reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve fuel economy of new passenger vehicles for the 2017-2025 model years; · Engage with manufacturers of passenger vehicles and other stakeholders, in partnership with EPA and NHTSA, to fully explore the capabilities to commercialize new greenhouse gas and fuel economy technologies over this timeframe and to identify costs and any market barriers; · Evaluation of possible approaches to help establish in the marketplace an increase in the use of advanced technologies, including plug-in hybrids, battery electric, and fuel cell vehicles; · Identify potential greenhouse gas emission standards that could be practically implemented nationally for the 2017-2025 model years, with a current expectation on California’s behalf that the annual rate of improvement would be in the 3 to 6 percent range. Based on the results of the above actions, California envisions a path forward to arrive at aggressive light-duty vehicle greenhouse gas emissions and fuel economy standards in coordination with federal agencies and in consultation with auto manufacturers, States, and others. This path will include an announcement by EPA and NHTSA of a joint Notice of Intent for rulemaking, by September 30, 2010, culminating in final adoption by mid-2012, of new requirements for a national program of greenhouse gas emission reductions and fuel economy standards for new passenger vehicles for the 2017-2025 model years. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ MEDIUM AND HEAVY DUTY LETTER May 19, 2010 Dear Administrator Jackson and Secretary LaHood: I am writing this letter to express California Air Resources Board’s support of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) efforts to reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) from new medium and heavy duty trucks. California recognizes the benefit of a harmonized national program, and urges the two agencies to expeditiously develop national regulations that will reduce GHG emissions from this source, benefiting California and the nation as we continue to strive to address the threat of global climate change. Federal action will also help us meet the goals established by the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32). Specifically, AB 32 mandates a reduction of California’s GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 and the Governor has further called for an 80 percent reduction from 1990 levels by 2050. California supports the development of a national program comprised of GHG emission standards and fuel efficiency standards for years 2014-2018, consistent with the following principles: s Starts in 2014 and be fully implemented by 2018. s Designed to increase the use of existing technologies in order to achieve significant GHG reductions and fuel efficiency improvements which, based on the measurement metric and baseline that are used, could result in individual vehicle GHG reductions as high as 20 percent and fuel efficiency improvements as high as 25 percent. As a result billions of dollars in fuel savings will accrue for California and the nation. s Establishes standards applicable to medium and heavy-duty vehicles in a manner that: o recognizes the commercial needs of the trucking industry and the demands of heavy-duty applications; o recognizes technology improvement opportunities across the entire vehicle and its operation; o is compatible with the complexities of the marketplace; o avoids unintended consequences. s Incentivizes the early introduction of advanced technologies (for example, hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles) California understands that EPA and NHTSA will jointly propose a comprehensive national program for full public review and comment, affording all interested parties the right to participate in a public hearing, and submit comments and other relevant information to the agencies for consideration prior to reaching any final determinations. We also understand that EPA and NHTSA’s preliminary analysis indicates that such a national program could reduce as much as 250 million metric tons of CO2 and save up to approximately 500 million barrels of oil over the lifetime of the vehicles built during 2014-2018, and achieve approximately $70 billion in fuel savings. California is committed to working with EPA and NHTSA to adopt a national program consistent with these principles. If you have any questions or need any additional information, please feel free to contact me at (916) 322-5840. Sincerely, Mary D. Nichols Chairman The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Fri, 28 May 2010 10:27:38 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB and NOAA in $20 million research project on Californias air pollution From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Next generation technology being used to understand interaction of air pollution and climate change. Release 10-38 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 28, 2010 NOAA Jana Goldman 202-365-6068 (cell) ARB Stanley Young 916-322-1309 desk 916-956-9409 cell www.arb.ca.gov ARB and NOAA in $20 million research project on California’s air pollution Next generation technology being used to understand interaction of air pollution and climate change LOS ANGELES— The California Air Resources Board and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are taking to land, sea and air to address the most challenging aspects of California’s air quality problem: measuring greenhouse gases and air pollutants. NOAA's ship Atlantis The $20 million CalNex project is employing an unprecedented number of airplanes, ships and researchers to examine the nexus between air pollution and climate change. "Combining resources with NOAA will give California new data to link our clean air and global warming protection efforts,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “The scale and sophistication of CalNex represents a milestone in ARB's 40-year history of groundbreaking air pollution research." “The goal is to provide decision makers with the information they need to develop win/win strategies that address both climate and air quality,” said Director of NOAA’s Chemical Sciences Division, A.R. Ravishankara. CalNex is the culmination of three years’ preparation and more than $20 million in funding. Started in early May continuing through most of June, the project will involve four airplanes, an ocean-going research ship, two land-based air monitoring super sites and more than 150 highly trained scientists. The project builds upon the idea that air quality and climate change issues are linked through ‘one atmosphere,’ an approach that demands coordination and multi-tiered approaches. Along with recent efforts to address climate change, ARB provides its leadership in air pollution studies with decades of baseline air quality data, an on-going atmospheric monitoring capacity and existing research capabilities. NOAA brings its ability to rapidly study the atmosphere over large areas of ocean and land by employing large, richly instrumented, long-range aircraft, a fully capable oceanographic vessel and their experienced scientists. The scale of the operation is unprecedented for an atmospheric research project in California. The project is employing: * Four aircraft o NOAA: WP-3D, Twin Otter and CIRPAS’ Twin Otter o NASA: King Air * A research vessel (NOAA’s Atlantis) o Provide data about the emissions and impacts of shipping off California’s coast * Two ground air monitoring super sites o Caltech with over 40 investigators + will focus on organic or carboneous PM and nighttime chemistry o Arvin (Kern County) with 18 investigators. + Provide comprehensive suite of chemical measurements that will significantly improve our understanding of ozone and PM formation of in the San Joaquin Valley NOAA’s contribution of hardware and expertise is estimated at $15 million. California is contributing $5 million, as well as the expertise of their meteorological, modeling, monitoring and research staff. Researchers from all over the United States and Europe will also be on the teams collecting data. The data collected will give scientists a better understanding of atmospheric-chemical transformations, climate processes, transport and meteorology. This will improve ARB’s methodologies for measuring greenhouse gases, traditional air pollutants and their precursors. In addition, the study will improve ARB’s understanding of the atmospheric formation of ground-level ozone and PM that will improve air-quality models which in turn enables ARB to develop more effective control strategies. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Specific Benefits of CalNex California Refining methods for determining greenhouse gas and air-pollutant emissions: The teams will look to interpret ambient CO2 measurements to provide feedback to the emissions inventory. They are able to avoid complications from background concentrations, multiplicity of sources and the absorption and release of CO2 by the biosphere. The use of aircrafts’ spatial coverage and resolution will provide valuable information on CO2 and other gases. Such data can be used to analyze emission trends, and develop methods to evaluate the effectiveness and potential of carbon sequestration, including natural, agricultural and forestry methods. Improvement of Air Quality Modeling: ARB depends on air quality models to prepare strategies for reducing air pollution and complying with federal clean air standards. The State Implementation Plan is the compendium of strategies that must be submitted to the federal government. CalNex can provide key data that will benefit the state’s air quality models with three-dimensional, complementary measurements collected by the aircrafts, ship and ground sites. Each aircraft is not only a mobile monitoring platform and vertical profiler, but also a “supersite” with an extensive complement of technology that can characterize collected gas and particle chemicals. The quality of instrumentation and the advantages of range, speed and vertical profiling that an aircraft can accommodate will provide highly valuable information to refine air-quality models and ensure that upcoming SIPs are based on the best science. Mobile Platforms P-3 Aircraft – The P-3 carries three and half tons of scientific equipment that takes measurements of gaseous and aerosol species as quickly as every second. Its range of 1300 km allows it to cover the entire state as well as out to sea. Twin Otter – Air pollution is a three-dimensional problem and yet measurements of the vertical distribution of pollutants such as ozone are rare. This aircraft will provide vertical sampling of ozone and other pollutants. CIRPAS Twin Otter – This aircraft will concentrate on the composition and physical and optical properties of aerosols. The data collected will help in understanding aerosol changes in the atmosphere which affect both health and climate. Atlantis - The Atlantis is a heavily-instrumented ocean-going vessel that can examine emissions and chemical process off California’s coast. This will improve ARB’s air quality modeling and estimation of the impacts of shipping on the state’s air quality. Air Monitoring Supersites Caltech Supersite Over 40 research groups are collecting data at the California Institute of Technology site. The numerous gaseous and aerosol measurements will improve our understanding of how particles form and change in the atmosphere and how nighttime chemical processes occur and impact pollution formation. San Joaquin Valley Supersite A second air monitoring supersite is located on the University of California, Agricultural Extension site south of Bakersfield, in Arvin. This southern San Joaquin Valley area has not shown the reductions in ambient ozone of other localities in the state. More than 10 research groups will collect volatile organic compound and nitrogen species data collected at a ground site near Bakersfield. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 16 Jun 2010 12:22:38 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Over $40,000 in settlement funds go to community colleges, clean-air fund From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Settlements benefit education and air quality projects, research . NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Release 10-39 June 16, 2010 Contact: Karen Caesar 626-575-6728 desk Over $40,000 in settlement funds go to community colleges, clean-air fund Settlements benefit education and air quality projects, research SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board distributed more than $40,000 to community colleges and a state clean-air fund in May as a result of settlements with companies that violated clean air laws. “California law requires that companies must maintain and inspect their diesel vehicles to meet clean air standards,” said ARB Enforcement Chief Jim Ryden. “Companies that take the steps to reduce emissions help keep the states’ air clean.” These settlements, totaling $43,425 will be distributed to the California Air Pollution Control Fund and the Peralta Community College District. The fund will receive $32,568.75 for projects and research to improve California's air quality. The remaining $10,856.25 will go to the college district to fund emissions education classes conducted by participating California community colleges around the state. These settlements were the result of the following violations: Failed to properly inspect their diesel vehicles, as required by California law, between 2007 and 2009: • HFS North America of Bloomingdale, Ill. ($6,000) Failed to properly inspect their diesel vehicles and properly attach emissions control labels on their engines: • Paragon Industries of Fresno, Calif. ($22,125) Failed to register and provide accurate information to register TRU units: • Superior Grocers of Santa Fe Springs, Calif. ($15,300) Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing compounds. In 1998, California identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant based on its potential to cause cancer, premature death and other health problems. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 16 Jun 2010 12:25:28 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB settles with Pep Boys for $170,000 for emissions violations From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Retail chain sold non-compliant vehicles and equipment. NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE California Air Resources Board Release 10-40 June 16, 2010 Contact: Karen Caesar 626-575-6728 desk ARB settles with Pep Boys for $170,000 for emissions violations Retail chain sold non-compliant vehicles and equipment SACRAMENTO – The Air Resources Board settled several enforcement actions with Pep Boys Auto for $170,000 last month for selling non-compliant vehicles and generators. In California, all new on-road and off-road vehicles and engines sold or offered for sale must be certified to meet strict emissions standards. The Philadelphia, PA based Pep Boys offered for sale and sold several motorized scooters, generators, and one all-terrain vehicle that did not carry the correct certification. “California businesses that don’t abide by the law unfairly undermine their competitors by creating an unlevel playing field,” said ARB Enforcement Chief Jim Ryden. “The Air Resources Board enforcement team works exceptionally hard to uncover non-compliant products before they are sold and begin producing excessive emissions of health-threatening pollutants.” In California, it is required for vehicles and equipment to display appropriate emission control labels that certify compliance with the State’s vehicle/engine emission standards. In these cases, the manufacturers of the motorized scooters had applied for the appropriate certification, but Pep Boys made these products available for sale (and sold several units) prior to final authorization. Unlike the scooters, the generators in question had never applied for certification, did not meet California’s emissions standards, and were illegal for sale in the state. Ozone, or urban smog, a by-product of the excess hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen emitted from non-compliant models, can affect human health in many ways including: itchy, watery eyes, scratchy throat, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, coughs, heightened asthma rates, cardiopulmonary cases and premature deaths. The settlement dollars will be deposited into the California Air Pollution Control Fund and used to advance projects and research to improve California’s air quality. More information on California’s engine emission certification procedures is available online: • http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/offroad/cert/cert.php for off-road vehicles; and, • http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/onroad/cert/cert.php for on-road vehicles. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 23 Jun 2010 12:36:14 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- CA Households Could Save $6,400 per Year from Better Community Planning From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov New Report Shows Economic and Environmental Benefits of Reduced Sprawl. California High-Speed Rail Authority NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 23, 2010 Contact: Lindsay VanLaningham, (916) 324-9670 CA Households Could Save $6,400 per Year from Better Community Planning New Report Shows Economic and Environmental Benefits of Reduced Sprawl Sacramento, CA — A new analysis released today finds that building more healthy communities — with access to transportation options, and closer to jobs, shopping, schools and parks — could save money, cut pollution, and reduce our dependence on oil. “California is leading the nation in tackling smart and comprehensive land‐use planning that will help us lay a foundation for economic growth, improve our quality of life and meet our environmental and health goals," said Governor Schwarzenegger. “This analysis shows we are moving in the right direction in working to design communities that allow Californians to save money by spending less time in their cars and more time with their families. By working together at all levels of government, we can help create a brighter, more sustainable future for generations of Californians to enjoy.” “Vision California: Charting Our Future” was conducted by Calthorpe Associates, one of the nation’s leading planning and design firms. It assesses the economic, energy, health and land impacts of different options for accommodating a population expected to reach 60 million by 2050. The report analyzes the financial and environmental benefits of state, regional and local land use and transportation policies. The analysis finds Californians facing an enormous price tag in a “Business as Usual” future. People spend more time in their cars, traveling nearly 183 billion more miles and using over 6.5 billion more gallons of gasoline each year than they would in a “Growing Smart” future that brings housing, jobs, and everyday needs closer together. Compared to the Business as Usual future, the Growing Smart future reduces annual household costs for gas, auto maintenance and household utility bills by 45% in 2050. The findings show how changes in land use and infrastructure decisions can have huge benefits for Californians, the state’s economy, and the environment. Highlights of the report include: •Households save $6,400 annually on auto and utility costs because more Californians are driving less and living in homes that use less water and energy. •Californians reduce the number of miles they drive by 3.7 trillion miles by 2050, the equivalent of taking ALL cars off the roads for 12 years. •California saves 140 billion gallons of gasoline to 2050 by reducing miles traveled by passenger cars ‐ the equivalent of two years of U.S. oil imports. •Cities and counties save $4.3 billion annually on infrastructure costs by building more compact neighborhoods. •California saves enough water by 2050 to fill the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in Yosemite National Park more than 50 times, by building more compact communities and homes that require less water. •California saves enough energy by 2050 to power EVERY home in the state for 8 years. “Right now, we are working with cities, counties, and regions to help create communities where people can have a high quality of life with transportation and housing choices that allow them to access the resources and amenities that California has to offer such as jobs, schools, healthy food and open space,” said Cynthia Bryant, Chair of the Strategic Growth Council. “The Vision California analysis allows us to consider the economic, environmental and health benefits of our land use and transportation decisions in a coordinated fashion so we can build quality communities for all Californians.” “Decisions made now will haunt us for years to come if we stick to the status quo. This analysis drives home the enormous costs at stake for Californians,” said Darrell Steinberg, President Pro tempore of the California State Senate and author of SB 375, California’s historic smart growth law. “We can either grow smart at less cost while enjoying healthier, cleaner more livable communities, or, we can continue business as usual and watch our economy and our environment erode.” Under SB 375, each of California’s regional agencies must meet benchmarks for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from automobiles through land use and transportation development. The state is expected to release draft regional emissions targets by the summer, with a final vote in September. The bill was signed into law by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2008 and supported by a coalition of unlikely supporters that included builders, developers, environmentalists, health advocates and government leaders. "This is a great tool that will enable local governments and key regions in the state in their overall land‐use planning. High speed rail has the potential to provide significant economic stimulus in many communities across California, and with a cohesive statewide high‐speed rail system with complementary local planning, this collaboration can hugely benefit the future of our state." said Curt Pringle, Chairman of the California High-Speed Rail Authority. “Charting our Future” is the first report from Vision California, an unprecedented effort funded by the California High‐Speed Rail Authority, in partnership with the California Strategic Growth Council, to analyze the economic and environmental impacts of land use and transportation decisions on California’s future. The report uses Rapid Fire, a new state-of-the-art analysis tool that tests the effects of land use and policy decisions across a wide variety of metrics. The report compares a “Business as Usual” scenario, which assumes a continuation of dispersed, auto‐oriented development patterns, with a “Growing Smart” scenario, which assumes a more balanced housing mix and greater transportation options. Vision California’s next steps include the development of detailed state‐wide physical land use and transportation scenarios utilizing new mapping and analysis tools that will serve to inform policy decisions at the state, regional, and local levels. For a copy of the report, go to www.visioncalifornia.org. #### The California High-Speed Rail Authority is the state entity responsible for planning, constructing and operating an 800-mile-long high-speed train system serving California's major metropolitan areas. The Authority has a nine-member policy board and a core staff. The Strategic Growth Council is a cabinet level, statutorily mandated, committee that is tasked with coordinating the activities of state agencies to improve air and water quality, protect natural resource and agriculture lands, increase the availability of affordable housing, improve infrastructure systems, promote public health, assist state and local entities in the planning of sustainable communities and meeting AB 32 goals. The Council is composed of agency secretaries from Business Transportation and Housing, California Health and Human Services, California Environmental Protection Agency, and the California Natural Resources Agency; the director of the Governor's Office of Planning and Research; and public member Robert Fisher who was appointed by the Governor. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 24 Jun 2010 16:25:57 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB acts to further reduce emissions at high-risk railyards From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov New commitments on diesel soot set stringent limits on total emissions, and cut health risks in half. California Environmental Protection Agency NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Air Resources Board June 24, 2010 Release 10-41 CONTACT: Karen Caesar 626 818 0145 (cell) Stanley Young 916 956 9409 (cell) ARB acts to further reduce emissions at high-risk railyards New commitments on diesel soot set stringent limits on total emissions, and cut health risks in half SACRAMENTO – The Air Resources Board today acted on a staff proposal to further slash toxic diesel emissions originating from four of the highest polluting railyards in the state. The four railyards, all located in Southern California, are BNSF San Bernardino, BNSF Hobart and UP Commerce (City of Commerce) and the UP Intermodal Container Transfer Facility/Dolores (Long Beach). Over the past five years, ARB and federal regulations and agreements have resulted in cutting emissions at the four railyards in half. The Board’s actions today will build on those reductions. “Once again the Air Resources Board is leading the nation, taking aggressive action to characterize and reduce the health risks from diesel engines used in freight operations throughout our state,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. "We recognize the importance of rail in moving freight throughout California and in most of the nation, while pushing the railroads to take responsibility for the disproportionate pollution their operations cause to the communities adjacent to their facilities.” Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and more than 40 other known cancer-causing compounds. In 1998, California identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant based on its potential to cause cancer, premature death and other significant health problems. The Board also indicated its intent to work with other agencies, local governments, stakeholders, and the railroads to identify and implement additional actions that can be taken both inside and outside the railyards. The Board directed ARB staff to consider several additional items related to the proposed commitments by the railroads. These include: responding in writing to environmental issues raised by the public; considering the use of an independent third party auditor to assess implementation progress; focusing efforts on the development of new locomotives and zero and near-zero emissions technology; allowing affected communities to enforce ARB’s commitments if they are not carried out; ensuring data can be easily accessed and delivered in a user-friendly format; and considering the addition of a commitment by the railroads against any backsliding on progress to date. The commitments the Board endorsed build on the existing regulations and agreements cutting emissions in 2015 by another 10 to 20 percent, and 2020 emissions by another 30 to 50 percent. Because of a hard cap placed on emissions under the commitments, total emissions at the San Bernardino railyard, for example, will be 3.4 tons a year instead of seven tons in 2020. Health risks will similarly be reduced an additional 50 percent under the commitments. As a result of a previous agreement with the railroads in 1998, Southern California is now home to the cleanest fleet of locomotives in the nation. A later agreement with the railroads in 2005, along with other steps ARB took, succeeded in slashing emissions by half over the past five years. The Board’s actions today establish a process that continues this approach, effectively reducing maximum individual cancer risks from a projected rate of 2,500 per million for those living closest to the railyards to 400 per million in 2020. A forward-looking provision in the commitment requires that potential new cost-effective technologies that could further reduce health risks at these four railyards in the future be assessed in 2018. The commitments were crafted in consultation with BNSF Railway and Union Pacific Railroad, as well as other stakeholders, and focus on the four railyards with the highest emissions and risk to nearby communities. Combined, the four railyards handle about 75 percent of containers and rail-related truck traffic in California. In 2005, each of these four railyards generated on average about 20 tons per year of diesel soot. By 2020, and irrespective of future rates of growth, the combination of existing measures and the new agreement reduces average diesel emissions per yard to about 3 tons per year. For the four high-risk railyards, these commitments will: • Establish a hard cap that requires emissions to decline according to a specified schedule; • Require a 10 - 20 percent larger reduction than would occur by 2015 if only existing measures were used, and about a 30 50 percent larger reduction by 2020; • Ensure that emissions will continue to decline regardless of growth or increased activity; • Establish a schedule for ARB to routinely prepare estimates of future health risks at each high priority railyard through 2020; • Provide for independent ARB verification of railyard activity to ensure that all obligations are met; • Lead to ARB installation and operation of a new air quality monitor in the community near the San Bernardino railyard and another near the Commerce/Hobart railyards; • Trigger specific and prompt actions by ARB if the emission reductions are not achieved; and, • Create a process for ongoing public participation for the duration of the commitments. The ARB’s list of proposed railyard commitments complements ARB’s extensive work to reduce diesel emissions from a wide variety of sources that affect railyard-adjacent communities. More information about the commitments can be found on ARB’s website at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/railyard/commitments/commitments.htm The ARB has already adopted measures for port trucks, cargo handling equipment, transport refrigeration units and cleaner fuel for intrastate and interstate locomotives that are already showing major air quality benefits near railyards and throughout the state. These and other regulations are the outcome of the Board’s adoption in 2000 of the landmark Diesel Risk Reduction Plan, an ambitious effort to reduce toxic emissions from diesel sources throughout the state. ### The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 24 Jun 2010 18:45:44 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB announces $200 million to clean the state's busiest trade corridors From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Money targeted to reduce diesel emissions from trucks, locomotives, harborcraft. California Environmental Protection Agency NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Air Resources Board June 24, 2010 Release 10-42 CONTACT: Mary Salas Fricke (916) 322-2990 www.arb.ca.gov ARB announces $200 million to clean the state's busiest trade corridors Money targeted to reduce diesel emissions from trucks, locomotives, harborcraft SACRAMENTO - Today the California Air Resources Board awarded $200 million in Proposition 1B funds to cut harmful emissions from heavy-duty trucks and other sources in the state’s four busiest trade corridors to clean up air pollution and protect community health. The Los Angeles/Inland Empire, Central Valley, Bay Area and San Diego/Border regions received the funds from the Proposition 1B, approved by voters in 2006. Previous Proposition 1B funds in 2008 provided $246 million to local agencies putting more than 5,000 cleaner trucks on the state’s roads. "This money will help put cleaner trucks on our roads, cleaner locomotives in our railyards and cleaner harborcraft in our ports," said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. "Thanks to these funds California communities located in busy freight transport areas will see the public health payoff much sooner and our children will be exposed to fewer toxic emissions from older, dirty diesel equipment." The trade corridors to receive funding are: • $110 million for Los Angeles/Inland Empire; • $55.5 million for Central Valley; and, • $31 million for the Bay Area and San Diego/Border regions. The recommended distribution of the $200 million among the four trade corridors is based on program guidelines adopted in March. The money will be used to reduce emissions from heavy-duty diesel trucks, locomotives and rail yards, ship berths, cargo equipment and commercial harbor craft such as tugboats and crew and supply vessels. The $200 million will be distributed to the following projects: • $112 million for diesel truck upgrades; • $81 million for ships at berth and cargo handling projects; • $6 million for freight locomotive projects; and, • $.5 million for harbor craft projects Projects include truck grants which will help independent truck owners and others comply early with the statewide truck rule adopted in 2008. The newly funded projects are estimated to reduce emissions by over 29,000 tons of nitrogen oxides and over 600 tons of particulate matter over the life of the project. The $1 billion Proposition 1B: Goods Movement Emission Reduction Program is funded through the sale of voter-approved bonds in the financial market and is a partnership between the ARB and local agencies such as districts and seaports, to quickly reduce air pollution emissions and health risk from freight movement along California's trade corridors. Local agencies apply to ARB for funding, and then those agencies offer financial incentives to owners of equipment used in freight movement to upgrade to cleaner technologies. Projects funded under this program must achieve early or extra emission reductions to complement ARB regulations. Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing compounds that have been associated with cancer, lung and heart disease. Nitrogen oxides or NOx, a precursor to ozone, contributes to urban smog and is associated with the development of adverse heath effects such as childhood asthma. For more information on Proposition 1B, visit: http://www.arb.ca.gov/gmbond. For more information on the truck and bus rule, visit: http://www.arb.ca.gov/regact/2008/truckbus08/truckbus08.htm . The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 30 Jun 2010 11:37:37 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Voucher Incentive Program Frequently Asked Questions From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Question and answer on enhancements to ARB's $28 million grant program . California Truckin’ News Voucher Incentive Program Frequently Asked Questions Dated: June 30, 2010 Contacts: Mary Fricke (916)322-2990 Karen Caesar (626)575-6728 www.arb.ca.gov The Air Resources Board has $28 million in grants available through its Voucher Incentive Program (VIP) to help independent truckers and small fleet owners replace or retrofit older, high-polluting big rigs ahead of California’s regulatory deadlines. Here’s a primer on the program and how it works: What is the Voucher Incentive Program? VIP grants help truck owners meet a 2008 public health regulation that accelerates the replacement of dirty big rigs. They are available only to owners of small fleets – one to three trucks – for replacing the dirtier models with newer, cleaner ones. What is this regulation, and why do we have it? The big-rig regulation requires 2010 model year engines in all heavy-duty trucks and buses by 2023. Soot traps must be installed on older rigs by 2011 and on all models by 2014. The regulation is the latest in a series of measures the Air Resources Board has adopted since 2000 to reduce the public health risk from breathing the tiny particles in diesel exhaust. Numerous studies indicate that reducing diesel emissions results in fewer asthma attacks, hospitalizations and deaths among those with heart and lung problems. How much are the grants, and what kinds of trucks are eligible? In May 2010, the Air Resources Board expanded the range of trucks eligible and raised the grant limit for replacement of high-mileage trucks to $45,000, from the previous $35,000. The Board also established VIP grants of up to $10,000 a truck for installing soot traps on rigs that not as close to retirement. The trucks to be replaced must have a 2002 model year or older diesel engine. Those with 2004 through 2006 model year diesel engines qualify for the soot trap installation money. The trucks to be retrofitted or replaced must have a gross vehicle weight of at least 19,501 pounds. The vehicles also must have been registered in California for the past two years, operating within the state at least 75 percent of the time. I’ve heard that only high-mileage trucks get funded. Is that true? No. The minimum mileage requirement is 15,000 miles per year, although higher mileage trucks may receive a larger grant amount. Why doesn’t the VIP pay more in these tough economic times? The amount of the VIP grant is not based on need but on how much cleaner the replacement truck runs. Is there any help for financing the rest of the cost? Yes. ARB’s loan guarantee program provides competitive rate financing for new and used truck purchases, soot traps and the EPA-approved “SmartWay” aerodynamic skirts and low rolling resistance tires. Loans are issued through participating financial institutions. Eligibility depends on the size of the fleet and other conditions. More information on ARB’s loan program is available at http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/truckstop/funding/loans_fa.htm Does the replacement truck have to be brand new? No. Grants can be used to purchase a new or used replacement truck. Does it matter where I buy the truck? Yes. The trucks must be bought from a dealer participating in the VIP. Participating dealers – currently about 60 statewide – are trained in the program and have all application papers at hand. For a list of participating dealers, please visit www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/moyer/voucher/dealerlist/dealerlist.htm or call the toll free ARB diesel hotline at 866-6DIESEL. Can I get funding even if I’m not based in an urban area? Yes. VIP grants are available to truckers who travel anywhere California, regardless of where they are based. Can I use VIP funding to buy a newer port truck? No. Port trucks-- those working in ports and intermodal rails for the past two or more years -- are not eligible. What does the public get in exchange for the grant? Cleaner air. Recipients are bound by law to scrap the old trucks and operate the replacements at least 75 percent of the time in California for at least three years. How do I apply? Applications are available at participating truck dealers and retrofit installers. How long does it take to get approved? Applicants are notified within five business days. For other questions, please call the ARB diesel hotline at 866-6DIESEL (866-634-3735) or visit www.arb.ca.gov/truckstop #### Columnist, Tony Brasil is the manager of ARB’s Heavy Duty Diesel Implementation Branch. While he cannot answer every question, he will select several to answer each month. To contact Tony, please email CATruckinQandA@ARB.ca.gov ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 30 Jun 2010 12:09:32 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB funding to clean up small trucking fleets-- frequently asked questions From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Question and answer on enhancements to ARB's $28 million grant program. California Truckin’ News Voucher Incentive Program Frequently Asked Questions Dated: June 30, 2010 Contacts: Mary Fricke (916)322-2990 Karen Caesar (626)575-6728 www.arb.ca.gov The Air Resources Board has $28 million in grants available through its Voucher Incentive Program (VIP) to help independent truckers and small fleet owners replace or retrofit older, high-polluting big rigs ahead of California’s regulatory deadlines. Here’s a primer on the program and how it works: What is the Voucher Incentive Program? VIP grants help truck owners meet a 2008 public health regulation that accelerates the replacement of dirty big rigs. They are available only to owners of small fleets – one to three trucks – for replacing the dirtier models with newer, cleaner ones. What is this regulation, and why do we have it? The big-rig regulation requires 2010 model year engines in all heavy-duty trucks and buses by 2023. Soot traps must be installed on older rigs by 2011 and on all models by 2014. The regulation is the latest in a series of measures the Air Resources Board has adopted since 2000 to reduce the public health risk from breathing the tiny particles in diesel exhaust. Numerous studies indicate that reducing diesel emissions results in fewer asthma attacks, hospitalizations and deaths among those with heart and lung problems. How much are the grants, and what kinds of trucks are eligible? In May 2010, the Air Resources Board expanded the range of trucks eligible and raised the grant limit for replacement of high-mileage trucks to $45,000, from the previous $35,000. The Board also established VIP grants of up to $10,000 a truck for installing soot traps on rigs that not as close to retirement. The trucks to be replaced must have a 2002 model year or older diesel engine. Those with 2004 through 2006 model year diesel engines qualify for the soot trap installation money. The trucks to be retrofitted or replaced must have a gross vehicle weight of at least 19,501 pounds. The vehicles also must have been registered in California for the past two years, operating within the state at least 75 percent of the time. I’ve heard that only high-mileage trucks get funded. Is that true? No. The minimum mileage requirement is 15,000 miles per year, although higher mileage trucks may receive a larger grant amount. Why doesn’t the VIP pay more in these tough economic times? The amount of the VIP grant is not based on need but on how much cleaner the replacement truck runs. Is there any help for financing the rest of the cost? Yes. ARB’s loan guarantee program provides competitive rate financing for new and used truck purchases, soot traps and the EPA-approved “SmartWay” aerodynamic skirts and low rolling resistance tires. Loans are issued through participating financial institutions. Eligibility depends on the size of the fleet and other conditions. More information on ARB’s loan program is available at http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/truckstop/funding/loans_fa.htm Does the replacement truck have to be brand new? No. Grants can be used to purchase a new or used replacement truck. Does it matter where I buy the truck? Yes. The trucks must be bought from a dealer participating in the VIP. Participating dealers – currently about 60 statewide – are trained in the program and have all application papers at hand. For a list of participating dealers, please visit www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/moyer/voucher/dealerlist/dealerlist.htm or call the toll free ARB diesel hotline at 866-6DIESEL. Can I get funding even if I’m not based in an urban area? Yes. VIP grants are available to truckers who travel anywhere California, regardless of where they are based. Can I use VIP funding to buy a newer port truck? No. Port trucks-- those working in ports and intermodal rails for the past two or more years -- are not eligible. What does the public get in exchange for the grant? Cleaner air. Recipients are bound by law to scrap the old trucks and operate the replacements at least 75 percent of the time in California for at least three years. How do I apply? Applications are available at participating truck dealers and retrofit installers. How long does it take to get approved? Applicants are notified within five business days. For other questions, please call the ARB diesel hotline at 866-6DIESEL (866-634-3735) or visit www.arb.ca.gov/truckstop #### Columnist, Tony Brasil is the manager of ARB’s Heavy Duty Diesel Implementation Branch. While he cannot answer every question, he will select several to answer each month. To contact Tony, please email CATruckinQandA@ARB.ca.gov ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 20 Jul 2010 11:45:24 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Over $100,000 in settlement funds go to community colleges, clean-air fund From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov 16 companies violated clean air laws . California Environmental Protection Agency Air Resources Board NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Release 10-43 July 20, 2010 CONTACT: Karen Caesar (626) 575-6728 www.arb.ca.gov Over $100,000 in settlement funds go to community colleges, clean-air fund SACRAMENTO-The California Air Resources Board distributed more than $100,000 to community colleges and a state clean-air fund last month as a result of settlements with 16 companies that violated clean air laws. California law requires that companies doing business in the state meet clean air standards and routinely check to make sure their equipment complies with ARB rules. "California has achieved cleaner skies largely through industry's compliance with state, federal and local air quality laws," said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. "Most companies follow the law; those that don't are only making it harder for Californians to breathe clean air." The violations included failure to: • conduct smoke inspections on heavy-duty diesel vehicles; • report diesel-powered cargo handling equipment; • comply with trash truck regulations; and, • install certified emissions reduction equipment on diesel engines. These settlements, totaling $114,350, will be distributed to the California Air Pollution Control Fund and the Peralta Community College District. The fund will receive $85,762.25 for projects and research to improve California's air quality. The remaining $28,588.75 will go to the college district to fund emissions education classes conducted by participating California community colleges around the state. Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing compounds. In 1998, California identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant based on its potential to cause cancer, premature death and other health problems. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 21 Jul 2010 11:55:22 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB settles air quality violations with Pennsylvania company for $2 million From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Company illegally sold catalytic converters. California Environmental Protection Agency Air Resources Board NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Release 10-44 CONTACT: Karen Caesar July 21, 2010 (626) 575-6728 www.arb.ca.gov ARB settles air quality violations with Pennsylvania company for $2 million Company illegally sold catalytic converters SACRAMENTO –The California Air Resources Board reached a settlement with Eastern Manufacturing Inc. of Langhorne, Pa., for $2 million for illegally selling uncertified catalytic converters to California business and consumers. Aftermarket catalytic converters must be approved by ARB to be advertised, sold, offered for sale or installed in California. “Catalytic converters are the cornerstone of the clean car technology that helps keep California skies smog-free,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “When the equipment doesn’t meet standards or malfunctions, air quality and public health suffers.” The settlement will be paid to the California Air Pollution Control Fund to support projects and research to improve the state's air quality. California's air quality measures are in place to prevent excessive emissions that can negatively affect public health. Excess automobile emissions can lead to smog, which in turn can cause difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, coughs, heightened asthma rates, cardiopulmonary ailments and premature deaths. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:42:10 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Warming climate means harsher smog season for California From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Scientific study illustrates future ‘climate penalty’ for air pollution cleanup efforts. Release #:10 - 45 Date:07/21/2010 ARB PIO: (916) 322-2990 CONTACT: Dimitri Stanich 916-322-2825 dstanich@arb.ca.gov Warming climate means harsher smog season for California Scientific study illustrates future ‘climate penalty’ for air pollution cleanup efforts SACRAMENTO - In a new report released by the Air Resources Board, scientists from the University of California at Davis and Berkeley estimate that rising temperatures from climate change will increase ozone levels in California’s major air basins. The study also predicts that peak concentrations of dangerous airborne particles will increase in the San Joaquin Valley due to the effects of climate change on wind patterns. "We already know that climate change will bring us increased forest fires, shorter winters, hotter summers and impact our water supply,” said Mary D. Nichols, ARB chairman. “Now we have scientific evidence that higher temperatures are hurting our lungs, too. To protect public health, we need to take cost-effective measures to slash greenhouse gases now and continue to ratchet down all sources of smog-forming emissions and harmful soot and particles” -- NOTE: Online version of this press release has a graphic that illustrates the study’s expected ozone changes in the South Coast region due to climate change. Areas in orange and red could see ozone concentrations elevated by nine to 18 parts per billion. Online version is available here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/newsrelease.php?id=145 -- The new study provides evidence of what is becoming known as the ‘climate penalty’, where rising temperatures increase ground level ozone and airborne health-damaging particles, despite the reductions achieved by programs targeting smog-forming emissions from cars, trucks and industrial sources. Authors of the study found that California could experience as many as six to 30 more days with ozone concentrations that exceed federal clean-air standards, depending on the extent of increased temperatures and assuming criteria-pollutant emissions in California remain at 1990-2004 levels. "Our study reveals that climate change and regional air pollution are intertwined problems," said the study’s lead author, Dr. Michael J. Kleeman of U.C. Davis. "We must consider climate change and air pollution together as we plan for the future." The researchers predicted the effects of climate change on California regions by merging the results from large-scale global models with detailed models for the South Coast and San Joaquin Valley. These narrow-focused models utilize high-resolution information about the geography, meteorology and emissions of these areas. Failure in the future to reduce ozone and particulate matter levels to federally-required health-based levels could lead to the loss of transportation funds used by the state to maintain and develop roadways. On a positive note the study also found that climate change would decrease annual-average particulate-matter concentrations in coastal regions of the state. “California's interests are best served by taking a broad scientific view of climate change and air pollution together,” added ARB Research Division Chief, Bart Croes. “Programs to protect California’s public health from the linked threats of global warming and air pollution need the guidance of the best science available which is certainly exemplified by this study." To view the report go here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/apr/past/climate.htm . For more information on ozone go here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/aaqs/caaqs/ozone/ozone-fs.pdf. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. Office of Communications 1001 I Street, Sacramento CA 95814. Ph: (916) 322-2990 ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Mon, 9 Aug 2010 14:08:00 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Report signals historic shift from sprawl to more livable, sustainable communities From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov SB 375 report proposes targets to guide improved planning and promote more transportation choices. Today the California Air Resources Board released a draft report marking the first major milestone in implementation of a law designed to improve how cities and counties plan for growth and development. The draft report (http://arb.ca.gov/cc/sb375/staffreport_sb375080910.pdf), required under SB 375 (Steinberg, 2008), proposes targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in 2020 and 2035 associated with passenger vehicle travel in the state’s eighteen Metropolitan Planning Organizations, including the four largest: Southern California, San Diego, the Bay Area, and the Sacramento region. The Air Resources Board will consider adopting these targets at its September board hearing.. The proposed targets are designed to help coordinate land use and transportation planning to produce sustainable strategies for growth and development for cities and regions over the next twenty-five years. The goal is for people to live close to where they work and play to reduce vehicle miles traveled and the greenhouse gas emissions that come from cars. “These proposed targets are ambitious, achievable and very good news for Californians. Improved planning means cleaner air in our cities, less time stuck in your car, and healthier, more sustainable communities,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “Cities that choose to develop Sustainable Communities Plans that meet these targets have an advantage when it comes to attracting the kinds of vibrant, healthy development that people want." Developing the targets has been a bottom-up process involving strong and consistent input from cities, municipalities and the public. “This has been a public and collaborative process from the outset, and it will continue to be so,” said ARB Executive Officer James Goldstene. “Cities are full partners in this process, and the law provides complete flexibility for the individual needs and requirements of every community.” Work on the report began immediately after Governor Schwarzenegger signed the bill in September, 2008. The first step was the formation of a 21-person advisory committee of experts to recommend methodologies to be used when setting targets. Following 13 public meetings, the Regional Targets Advisory Committee submitted its report to ARB in September, 2009 advising, among other things, that the targets be expressed as a percent reduction in per capita greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. Developing the proposed targets took place over the past eleven months and included intensive collaboration between ARB and the Metropolitan Planning Organizations, the agencies ultimately responsible for developing the regional plans under SB 375. ARB staff held public workshops throughout the state in May and July, and ARB staff provided an update to the Board in June. ARB staff also participated in numerous workgroups and meetings with public stakeholders, along with continuous transfer and sharing of modeling and data information between regional planners and ARB staff. Over the past several months, a number of the planning organizations have proposed their own targets for ARB to consider. Those recommendations and the sound technical work behind them form the basis of the proposals described in the current report. “This report builds on the pioneering efforts of cities throughout the state that blazed the trail and set the standard for developing more livable communities,” said Nichols. “Working together, ARB and all cities can benefit from those models and develop coordinated growth, development and transportation planning that will benefit families and businesses in every region of the state.“ Modeling to develop the targets also reflect demographic shifts and a changing housing market in California as baby-boomers (and many young people) are moving away from single-family suburban homes to smaller lots and multi-unit housing closer to a city’s center. The resulting targets for the four main regions also recognize the significant differences among the regions and the need to address the specific needs and requirements of growth and development in each. The report outlines proposed targets of per capita greenhouse gas reductions of 7 to 8 percent by 2020, and between 13 and 16 percent in 2035 compared to 2005 levels. A separate approach was developed for the eight planning organizations that comprise the San Joaquin Valley, establishing placeholder targets of a 5 percent reduction in per capita emissions in 2020, and a 10 percent reduction in 2035. Targets for the remaining six Metropolitan Planning Organizations – the Monterey, Butte, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Shasta, and Lake Tahoe regions – reflect each region’s current plans for 2020 and 2035. Once the targets are finalized, cities within each planning region will work together with their regional planning agency on developing a Sustainable Community Strategy that outlines where growth and development will occur, and how the transportation system can support that growth, so that their region’s targets can be achieved. Cities and municipalities retain full local decision making and zoning authority. Regions that meet the targets will receive incentives in the form of easier access to federal funding and streamlined environmental review for development projects. To learn more about SB 375 and view the report go here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/sb375/sb375.htm . ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 17 Aug 2010 11:13:21 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB announces $2 million for clean engine projects From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Money will drive advanced technology, cleaner air for port and rail communities . The Air Resources Board recently announced the selection of four projects to demonstrate advanced clean engine technologies that reduce smog-forming and diesel soot emissions. ARB selected the Port of Long Beach, the Port of Los Angeles, the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District and the South Coast Air Quality Management District as agency partners for the awards. “California prides itself on being one of the trailblazers in the field of high tech and these projects are no exception,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “Testing the latest technologies will mean residents living near railyards and ports can reap the benefits of cleaner air and a better quality of life.” The goal of ARB’s demonstration projects is to accelerate the next generation of advanced technology vehicles, equipment, or emission control devices to the open market. Governor Schwarzenegger provided funding for clean vehicle technologies by signing AB 118 into law in October 2007. Smog abatement, vehicle and vessel registration fees pay for these programs. The selected demonstration projects are: • $1 million to retrofit a tugboat with hybrid engine technology at the Port of Long Beach; • $346,178 for advanced technology locomotive engine upgrades with soot traps at the Port of Los Angeles; • $502,865 for advanced technology locomotive engine upgrades with soot traps within the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District; and, • $150,957 for advanced technology locomotive engine upgrades with soot traps within the South Coast Air Quality Management District. The awardees will work in partnership with ARB to find new solutions that improve air quality for the communities they serve as well as providing matching funds for the projects. Work on the demonstration projects will be completed by June 30, 2012. More details on the funding plan are available at http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/aqip/fundplan/fundplan.htm Emissions from diesel particulate matter are associated with causing a variety of health effects including premature death and a number of heart and lung diseases. For more information on the advanced technology demonstration projects, go to ARB’s demonstration project website. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:05:02 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Fine particle air pollution responsible for 9,000 premature deaths in California each year From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov ARB report based on U.S. EPA peer-reviewed study Release #:10-48 Date:08/31/2010 ARB PIO: (916) 322-2990 CONTACTS: Dimitri Stanich 916-322-2825 c(916)716-8047 dstanich@arb.ca.gov Stanley Young 916-322-1309 c(916)956-9409 syoung@arb.ca.gov Fine particle air pollution responsible for 9,000 premature deaths in California each year ARB report based on U.S. EPA peer-reviewed study SACRAMENTO - Approximately 9,000 people in California are estimated to die prematurely each year as a result of exposure to fine particle pollution, according to a report issued today by the California Air Resources Board. “There is no question particulate pollution is causing premature deaths here in California and nationwide,” said ARB Chairman Mary Nichols. “This study is further evidence that we are on the right track, and ARB will continue to work with truckers and equipment owners to clean up diesel emissions, improve our air quality and protect public health. ARB is committed to reducing this staggering statistic because one premature death is one too many.” The ARB report and its methodology were based on recent science assessments completed by the U.S. EPA. These assessments were required as part of the federal agency’s periodic review of the national air quality standards for fine particle matter, or PM 2.5. The review, undertaken as a public process every five years, was completed this spring and included peer review by the federal Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee. As a result of this review, the U.S. EPA concluded that there is a causal relationship between exposure to fine particle pollution and premature death. A causal relationship indicates the highest level of scientific certainty. This initial U.S. EPA review was followed by a related risk assessment report released in June that estimated premature deaths nationwide from exposure to fine particulate pollution. The U.S. EPA and its Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee considered evidence from multiple peer-reviewed studies, and the estimates of premature death were based on a key nationwide study of exposure to fine particle pollution involving about 500,000 people and 116 U.S. cities, including Los Angeles and Fresno. ARB used the same methodology and risk factors the peer-reviewed U.S. EPA report used and applied it to the entire state, drawing on California-specific data from 90 fine-particulate monitoring stations to estimate the number of premature deaths that can be linked to this pollution. ARB’s report estimated that 9,200 premature deaths in California are associated with fine particulate pollution on an annual basis, with a statistical range from 7,300 to as high as 11,000 premature deaths each year. California has the most extensive particulate monitoring network in the nation. Fine particle pollution, smaller than 2.5 microns—less than a human hair which averages 70 microns in diameter—is the product of a variety of sources including particles in the exhaust of diesel engines. Very fine particulate pollution is particularly dangerous since it burrows deep into the lungs where it can enter the bloodstream and harm the heart and other organs. Fine particulate pollution poses an especially critical health danger for children, the elderly, and people with existing health problems. While it is recognized that exposure to PM 2.5 is linked to cardiovascular disease, the report focused only on premature deaths and did not estimate increased hospitalizations or other health impacts. Illustration above shows very fine particulate pollution compared to the 70-micrometer diameter of human hair. ARB efforts to reduce fine particulate pollution are driven by the need to protect public health and also by federal clean air requirements that mandate aggressive action to meet national clean air standards. Missing compliance deadlines could result in the loss of federal transportation funds and other federal sanctions. In 1998, ARB declared particles in diesel exhaust a Toxic Air Contaminant, a designation that required the Board to take measures to reduce the risk. The Diesel Risk Reduction program was instituted by ARB in 2000. Since then ARB has adopted many regulations to reduce diesel emissions including those from trucks, construction equipment, cargo handling equipment at ports and rail yards, transit buses and trash trucks among others. The ARB has conducted extensive outreach through its website, The Truck Stop (http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/truckstop/truckstop.htm) and the Diesel Hotline (866-6DIESEL) over the last year to ensure companies and truck owners are aware of available financial assistance. In 2006, voters approved Proposition 1B, a $1 billion bond initiative to transition to cleaner technologies and clean up emissions from school buses, heavy-duty trucks and diesel equipment. Additionally, up to $140 million annually is available through the Carl Moyer grants which are designated for early or extra emission reductions. There is also a low cost truck loan program under AB 118 to help truckers access financing before regulatory deadlines. The ARB report can be found at http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/health/pm-mort/pm-report_2010.pdf . THE U.S. EPA report can be found at : http://www.epa.gov/ttn/naaqs/standards/pm/data/PM_RA_FINAL_June_2010.pdf . The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. #### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 7 Sep 2010 11:19:51 -0700 Subject: arbcombo -- Rower gives Chilling Story of our Environment while Crossing the Worlds Oceans From: wfell@arb.ca.gov We are pleased to announce the next Series topic: "Connecting the Dots of our Environment While Rowing the High Seas". Rosalind (Roz) Savage, United Kingdom Thursday, September 30, 2010 10:30 - 11:30 am PDT Coastal Hearing Room, 2nd Floor, Cal/EPA Building 1001 I Street, Sacramento, California Announcement and Presentation can be viewed at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/seminars/seminars.htm For “internal” users please check the internal webcast calendar at: http://epanet.ca.gov/broadcast/?bdo=1 For “external” users please check the external webcast calendar at: http://www.calepa.ca.gov/broadcast/?bdo=1 For your added convenience, while viewing the webcast, presentations can be downloaded at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/seminars/seminars.htm Your e-mail questions will be aired during the question & answer period following the presentations. Webcast Viewers, e-mail your questions to: coastalrm@calepa.ca.gov For more information on this seminar presentation please contact: Doug Grandt at (916) 324-0317 or dgrandt@arb.ca.gov For more information on this Seminar Series please contact: Peter Mathews at (916) 323-8711 or pmathews@arb.ca.gov To receive notices for upcoming Seminars please go to: http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and sign up for the seminars list serve. You are receiving this single arbcombo email because you are a subscriber to or have made a public comment to one or more of the following lists: aaqs, ab2588, ab32publichealth, ag, agriculture-sp, altdiesel, capandtrade, cargo, ccms, cc, cement, climatechampions, compost, consprod, diesel-retrofit, ej, freight, fuels, ghg-rep, ghg-ver, h2hwy, hcm, hdghg, icat, landfills, localaction, loco, manuremgmt, maritime, moyer, mvac-gwp, newsrel, offroad, oil-gas, onrdiesel, onroad, ordiesel, pmmeasures, pm-mort, railyard, recmarine, resburn, research, res, sbidling, schoolbus, school, seminars, shipincin, shorepower, showcase, tac-id, transport, vapor, variance, vavrcars, vee, vsr, zeb, zev-program. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to one of the lists aggregated to make this particular ARB combination listserve broadcast. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, visit the Flex Your Power website at www.fypower.org . ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 21 Sep 2010 11:33:50 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Press Release: Californias Clean Energy Future document released From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Cooperation in developing 33% renewable energy requirement to be continued over coming decade. New vision unveiled for California’s Clean Energy Future Cooperation in developing 33% renewable energy requirement to be continued over coming decade. Other Contacts: Susanne Garfield |sgarfiel@energy.state.ca.us Stephanie McCorkle | mccorkle@caiso.com Terrie Prosper | tdp@cpuc.ca.gov SACRAMENTO - A new plan and vision for California’s energy future was unveiled today two days in advance of the Air Resources Board consideration of a first-in-the-nation rule requiring that a third of our electricity come from clean, green sources by 2020. The “California’s Clean Energy Future” vision is accompanied by an implementation plan and a roadmap. It demonstrates an unprecedented spirit of collaboration comprised of four state agencies and the independent power grid operator. The joint authors are the ARB, California Energy Commission (CEC), California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) and California Independent System Operator Corporation (ISO). The “California’s Clean Energy Future” overview outlines how California’s energy agencies will achieve the ambitious environmental and energy policy goals established by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. The document provides the following targets by 2020: * Reductions of electricity (13,200 to 18,000 gigawatt-hours) and natural gas use (800 million therms) by 2020. * 5,000 megawatts of installed renewable distributed generation statewide at the right locations on the power grid to support reliability and provide economic value. * The development of at least one large-scale carbon capture and storage generating facility in California. * 1,000 MW of additional storage capacity to be brought onto the system. * Developing enough charging stations at home, work, and in public areas to accommodate one million electric and hybrid vehicles. The document will guide the next decade of coordinated strategic planning in the state, bringing cleaner sources of electricity online, and supporting reinvigorated efforts to improve energy efficiency, developing new transmission infrastructure and ensuring the stability of the electrical grid. Improved planning for a clean energy future will create thousands of new jobs, diversify the state’s energy supplies and reduce air pollution from fossil-fuel power generation. The document calls for an integrated approach to energy issues that have, in the past, not always been addressed in a fully coordinated fashion. In contrast, a consensus among the agencies drives the current effort in which a coordinated statewide approach is key in balancing climate change mitigation, renewable power generation and the use of advanced technologies with grid reliability and reduced costs to consumers. “California's energy policy must be clear and focused on meeting our advanced efficiency and renewable energy goals,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “States and nations are competing for the green jobs, economic security and cleaner environment that flow from increasing reliance on wind, solar and geothermal power. By coordinating our regulations California makes itself even more attractive to clean energy technology investors and builders. ” "It is wonderful to see this coordination among state agencies on such an important issue," said CPUC President Michael R. Peevey. "Such a coordinated approach will help make achieving our clean energy goals easier and more transparent for consumers." “Energy efficiency has been the bedrock of California’s energy policy for more than three decades and the least expensive strategy for meeting climate change goals.” said Karen Douglas, Chairman California Energy Commission. “California’s Clean Energy Future underscores the need to continue investing in energy efficiency and clean technologies if California is to maintain its leadership role as the most energy efficient and forward-thinking state in the nation.” “This puts us a step ahead of the monumental effort required to attain California’s renewable energy and other environmental objectives. The goal is to transform the industry – a goal that we can meet only if we work together urgently toward the same end, with transparency and accountability. The California ISO is a proud partner in this critically important alliance,” said California ISO President and CEO Yakout Mansour. A roadmap charts policy priorities, goals and milestones for the state’s clean energy future and an implementation plan contains the details of more than 50 newly aligned activities between the five organizations. The plan covers issues such as job training and retraining for the new clean energy economy, and planning for new electricity generation, developing enhanced transmission and new distribution requirements. It also looks at strategic and infrastructure opportunities that will accommodate the influx of plug-in hybrid and all-electric cars, and investment in research and development for new technologies related to generation and distribution. On a more technical level, the documents greatly elevate the PUC’s long-term electricity procurement planning with the ISO’s annual transmission planning efforts and the Energy Commission’s regular forecasts of statewide energy demand. All the agencies plan to review and revise their individual recommended strategies and specific targets on a biennial basis following the energy commission’s forecast updates of projected electricity demand. The documents were inspired by the close working relationships developed among the agencies since 2006 while coordinating on electricity and energy-related measures for implementing AB 32. This was followed by an even more intensive period of collaboration following the Governor’s Executive Order in September, 2009 (S-21-09) requiring the state’s utilities to increase the power they sell to be made up of at least 33 percent clean energy. That collaboration produced the current proposed regulation for a renewable electricity standard which the Air Resources Board will consider at its September 23 meeting. “California’s Clean Energy Future” and related documents can be found at: http://www.climatechange.ca.gov/energy/index.html The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. Office of Communications 1001 I Street, Sacramento CA 95814. Ph: (916) 322-2990 ARB Homepage | Newsreleases ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 23 Sep 2010 15:15:42 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- California takes the first step toward more livable, sustainable communities From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov SB 375 regional targets promote more integrated planning, greater transportation choice for Californians . California takes the first step toward more livable, sustainable communities Regional targets promote more integrated planning, greater transportation choice for Californians SACRAMENTO - Today California adopted goals for more healthy and sustainable communities that improves the way we plan and promotes more transportation choices. Today the Air Resources Board adopted targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in 2020 and 2035 associated with passenger vehicle travel in the state's 18 Metropolitan Planning Organizations. The proposed targets, required under SB 375 (2008, Steinberg), are designed to help coordinate land use and transportation planning. The law requires cities and counties to use the targets to help develop sustainable strategies for growth and development over the next 25 years. Improved planning will offer a wider variety of transportation choices, including public transit and more walkable streets and cities. It will also guide future development decisions so people can live close to where they work and play. While the goal is to reduce greenhouse gases from passenger vehicles, it also helps clean the air in the state by reducing the amount of pollution that creates smog. "These targets are ambitious, achievable and very good news for California communities. Improved planning means cleaner air in our cities, less time stuck in your car, and healthier, more sustainable communities," said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. "Cities that choose to develop Sustainable Communities Plans that meet these targets have an advantage when it comes to attracting the kinds of vibrant, healthy development that people want." The targets adopted today were the result of intensive collaboration between ARB and the Metropolitan Planning Organizations, involving strong and consistent input from cities, municipalities and the public. Today the Board adopted the following targets. They call for a percent reduction in per-capita emissions by the years 2020 and 2035: • The San Diego Area: 7 percent and 13 percent • Sacramento Region: 7 percent and 16 percent • Bay Area Region: 7 percent and 15 percent • Southern California: placeholders of 8 percent and 13 percent, to be discussed again in February • San Joaquin Valley (includes eight planning organizations): 2 percent and 5 percent, with the intention of discussing higher targets in 2012 • Targets for the remaining six Metropolitan Planning Organizations—the Monterey Bay, Butte, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Shasta and Tahoe Basin regions—generally match or improve upon their current plans for 2020 and 2035. In adopting these regional targets, the Board recognized and committed to help identify the funding and resources that are essential tools for regions to move forward successfully towards more sustainable communities. With the targets now largely in place, the cities within each region will work together with their planning agency to begin developing a Sustainable Community Strategy. Each strategy, designed to accommodate the specific needs and requirements of each region, outlines where growth and development will occur, and how the transportation system can support that growth so that their region's targets can be achieved. Cities are full partners in this process and retain full local decision making and zoning authority. The adoption of the targets today marks a major milestone for the implementation of SB 375, the landmark bill Governor Schwarzenegger signed into law in September 2008. A 21-person advisory committee of experts issued a report in 2009 recommending that the targets be expressed as a percentage reduction of per capita greenhouse gas emissions produced from transportation, using 2005 as the baseline. The targets adopted today include forecasts and computer modeling by the planning organizations that reflect a wide variety of strategies, including such things as: shifts towards multi-unit housing closer to a city's center, increasing the number of workers who telecommute and carpool, adding carpool lanes, or increasing the number of people who take public transit. Regions that meet the targets may receive incentives in the form of easier access to federal funding and streamlined environmental review for development projects. For more information on SB 375, see: http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/sb375/sb375.htm ### The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 23 Sep 2010 16:11:32 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- (Corrected version) California takes the first step toward more livable, sustainable comunities From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov SB 375 regional targets promote more integrated planning, greater transportation choice for Californians . [Corrected version--includes update to Southern California and San Joaquin Valley targets] California takes the first step toward more livable, sustainable comunities SACRAMENTO - Today California adopted goals for more healthy and sustainable communities that improves the way we plan and promotes more transportation choices. Today the Air Resources Board adopted targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in 2020 and 2035 associated with passenger vehicle travel in the state's 18 Metropolitan Planning Organizations. The proposed targets, required under SB 375 (2008, Steinberg), are designed to help coordinate land use and transportation planning. The law requires cities and counties to use the targets to help develop sustainable strategies for growth and development over the next 25 years. Improved planning will offer a wider variety of transportation choices, including public transit and more walkable streets and cities. It will also guide future development decisions so people can live close to where they work and play. While the goal is to reduce greenhouse gases from passenger vehicles, it also helps clean the air in the state by reducing the amount of pollution that creates smog. "These targets are ambitious, achievable and very good news for California communities. Improved planning means cleaner air in our cities, less time stuck in your car, and healthier, more sustainable communities," said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. "Cities that choose to develop Sustainable Communities Plans that meet these targets have an advantage when it comes to attracting the kinds of vibrant, healthy development that people want." The targets adopted today were the result of intensive collaboration between ARB and the Metropolitan Planning Organizations, involving strong and consistent input from cities, municipalities and the public. Today the Board adopted the following targets. They call for a percent reduction in per-capita emissions by the years 2020 and 2035: • The San Diego Area: 7 percent and 13 percent • Sacramento Region: 7 percent and 16 percent • Bay Area Region: 7 percent and 15 percent • Southern California: 8 percent and 13 percent, with the 2035 target conditioned on discussions with the MPO • San Joaquin Valley (includes eight planning organizations): placeholder of 5 percent and 10 percent, to be revisited in 2012 • Targets for the remaining six Metropolitan Planning Organizations—the Monterey Bay, Butte, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Shasta and Tahoe Basin regions—generally match or improve upon their current plans for 2020 and 2035. In adopting these regional targets, the Board recognized and committed to help identify the funding and resources that are essential tools for regions to move forward successfully towards more sustainable communities. With the targets now largely in place, the cities within each region will work together with their planning agency to begin developing a Sustainable Community Strategy. Each strategy, designed to accommodate the specific needs and requirements of each region, outlines where growth and development will occur, and how the transportation system can support that growth so that their region's targets can be achieved. Cities are full partners in this process and retain full local decision making and zoning authority. The adoption of the targets today marks a major milestone for the implementation of SB 375, the landmark bill Governor Schwarzenegger signed into law in September 2008. A 21-person advisory committee of experts issued a report in 2009 recommending that the targets be expressed as a percentage reduction of per capita greenhouse gas emissions produced from transportation, using 2005 as the baseline. The targets adopted today include forecasts and computer modeling by the planning organizations that reflect a wide variety of strategies, including such things as: shifts towards multi-unit housing closer to a city's center, increasing the number of workers who telecommute and carpool, adding carpool lanes, or increasing the number of people who take public transit. Regions that meet the targets may receive incentives in the form of easier access to federal funding and streamlined environmental review for development projects. For more information on SB 375, see: http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/sb375/sb375.htm ### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 23 Sep 2010 17:54:55 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- California commits to more clean, green energy From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov New standard: 33% of electricity from renewable sources by 2020. Release 10-51 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 23, 2010 CONTACT: Stanley Young (916) 956-9409 www.arb.ca.gov California commits to more clean, green energy New standard: 33% of electricity from renewable sources by 2020 SACRAMENTO: Today California took a decisive step toward a clean energy future by setting in place a standard that one-third of the electricity sold in the state in 2020 come from clean, green sources of energy. The regulation establishing the 33 percent renewable electricity standard was adopted today unanimously by the California Air Resources Board. The standard will promote green jobs to construct and run renewable facilities in California, reduce hundreds of tons of harmful air pollution, insulate California’s economy from the shock of volatile natural gas prices and help establish the state as a global leader in the research, development and manufacturing of clean, renewable energy sources. “The Renewable Electricity Standard means cleaner energy for California’s households and businesses. It will help clean our air and bring new solar and wind energy facilities to California with thousands of jobs in construction, operation and spin off industries,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “This standard is going to further diversify and secure our energy supply while also growing California’s leading green technology market, which will lead to cost savings for consumers.” The regulation adopted today is the product of coordination and cooperation by ARB, California Public Utilities Commission, California Energy Commission and California Independent System Operator. Work on the standard began immediately following the Governor’s Renewable Electricity Standard Executive Order, signed on September 15, 2009. The goal of 33 percent renewable electricity was also a major measure in the Scoping Plan, adopted by the Board in December 2008, toward fulfilling AB 32, the requirements of California’s climate change legislation. The regulation ramps up the amount of electricity from wind, solar, geothermal and other renewable sources of energy while preserving the existing authorities of the energy agencies and the grid operator. ARB oversight will ensure that the renewable standard delivers substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and achieves clean air goals by reducing smog-forming pollution. Important elements include: • The regulation applies to all entities that deliver electricity, including investor owned utilities (IOUs) and publically owned utilities (POUs) including municipal utilities; • The regulation creates a program that is consistent for all electrical entities; • The phased-in approach provides for interim targets for renewable energy: 20 percent for 2012 – 2014; 24 percent for 2015 – 2017; 28 percent for 2018 – 2019; 33 percent for 2020 and beyond; • The program employs the procedures and mechanisms already used by electrical entities; and, • The smallest electricity providers (sales of less than 200,000 megawatt-hours per year) are only subject to recordkeeping and reporting requirements. The standard is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about the equivalent of 12 to 13 million metric tons of carbon dioxide per year in 2020. In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the regulation will result in hundreds of tons of statewide reductions in smog-forming and toxic air pollutants by displacing the use of dirtier fossil fueled generation, providing a range of health related benefits. RES is one of many measures designed to reach the goals set out by AB 32, California’s law requiring the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. In 2020 the new regulation will eliminate the equivalent of 12 million metric tons of carbon dioxide, making it one of AB 32’s largest emission-reduction strategies. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Mon, 27 Sep 2010 14:33:49 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board Incentive Program puts 650 clean hybrid trucks on California roads From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Successful $19 million program recognized as a leading energy-efficiency program in the nation. California Air Resources Board News Release For Immediate Release Release #:10-52 Date:09/27/2010 ARB PIO: (916) 322-2990 CONTACT: Mary Fricke 916-322-2638 mfricke@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board Incentive Program puts 650 clean hybrid trucks on California roads Successful $19 million program recognized as a leading energy-efficiency program in the nation The Air Resources Board today announced that an innovative financial incentive program has helped put over 650 hybrid trucks and buses on California roads. The Hybrid Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Program provides $20,000 to $35,000 as vouchers to help California fleets offset the purchase price of advanced-technology hybrid trucks and buses. The technology significantly reduces greenhouse gas and smog-forming emissions, particularly in heavy idling or stop-and-go vehicles. The hybrid truck program also recently received recognition by the American Council for Energy Efficient Economy as one of the nation’s best energy efficiency programs. “We are honored that California’s ongoing effort to bring the most efficient delivery trucks to our streets was recognized by this national organization,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “The trucks and buses that these funds help purchase use proven advanced technology to improve fuel efficiency and clean our air.” ARB created the financial incentive program in 2007 under AB 118 (Nunez), legislation that provided funding for a range of alternative fuels and vehicle technologies. ARB’s voucher program is implemented by CALSTART, a non-profit organization that works with business, fleets and government to develop and implement clean, efficient transportation solutions. CALSTART provides the vouchers to truck dealerships at the time a vehicle is ordered on a first-come, first-served basis. All $19 million dedicated to the voucher program under the original legislation to help Californians purchase cleaner, hybrid vehicles has now been distributed. Up to an additional $25 million was approved by the board this past June to fund more hybrid vehicles beginning early 2011. Most of the vehicles funded were beverage and package delivery trucks, with almost all funding going to private fleets. Over 300 of the vehicles are classified as heavy-duty trucks and over 200 are classified as light-duty trucks. While most of the funded vehicles were located in the South Coast and Bay Area Air Quality Management Districts, smaller air districts such as Shasta and Kern County Air Quality Management Districts also had recipients. Because of the success of the state incentive program, the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s board of directors recently approved an additional $1.4 million to help fleets purchase hybrid trucks and buses in their own region. These additional funds should be available in the next month. Hybrid vehicles reduce smog-forming and greenhouse gas emissions and help California meet health-based clean air standards and climate change goals. Additional information regarding the Hybrid Vehicle Incentive Program can be found at http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/aqip/hvip.htm or by going to the CALSTART website at www.calstart.org #### The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 29 Sep 2010 13:16:13 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- California Truckin' News: ARB celebrates a successful start of air quality improvement projects From: mfricke@arb.ca.gov Consumers take advantage of incentives, gear up for cleaner cars and other equipment . California Truckin’ News ARB celebrates a successful start of air quality improvement projects Dated: Sept. 29, 2010 Contacts: Mary Fricke (916)322-2990 Karen Caesar (626)575-6728 www.arb.ca.gov ARB celebrates a successful start of air quality improvement projects Consumers take advantage of incentives, gear up for cleaner cars and other equipment This year California consumers have taken advantage of state incentives that put clean vehicles on the road and save them money on fuel. New incentive programs totaling $40 million are cutting smog and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by funding advanced vehicle and equipment technologies. Under Assembly Bill 118 (2007), ARB is authorized to design new programs that fund the purchase of new vehicles like the Nissan LEAF and hybrid trucks and get them on the road more quickly. These monies accelerate California’s clean air efforts and protect public health. One of the incentive programs was so popular, it quickly used up all $19 million within the first six months and, it received national recognition by the American Council for Energy Efficient Economy as having one of the best programs for energy-efficiency. These programs have the potential of producing green jobs because many of the vehicles and parts are manufactured in California. The following describes the five incentive programs: • Hybrid truck and bus program This $19 million program puts hybrid vehicles on the road with the help of a $10,000 to $35,000 voucher. Hybrid technology is well suited for vehicles that do a lot of stop and go driving or idling. • Clean car rebates This $9 million rebate program pays $1,500 to $5,000 for 100 percent electric and plug-in hybrid passenger cars, motorcycles and neighborhood electric vehicles. These rebates come in time for the product launch of new 2011 cars such as the Nissan LEAF. • Lawn equipment rebates This rebate program will pay an average of $200 to replace older, gas equipment with new, cordless equipment, such as lawn mowers and hedge trimmers. The goal of this program is to encourage consumer acceptance and accelerate development of commercial-grade equipment. By next summer, over 10,000 pieces of high polluting equipment will be replaced, helping make the air cleaner for communities already plagued by poor air quality. • Agricultural utility and all terrain vehicle rebates There are rebates for utility and all terrain vehicles that pay 25 percent of the purchase price of a new, zero-emission vehicle that retails for around $5,000 to $13,000. With much of the state’s farming activities taking place in areas in desperate need of cleaner air, these vehicles will indeed help. • Advanced technology demonstration projects Money is available to demonstrate cleaner technologies in trains, boats, off-road vehicles and buses. The technologies must be within three years of being commercially available in the California. It is ARB’s hope that the state will continue funding these programs once the state passes a budget and money is dolled out. When that happens, ARB is ready to introduce an additional $3 million for hybrid off-road equipment such as excavators and dozers. So, get ready to get rid of that old lawn mower in the garage or that old car that you didn’t get to replace during the Fed’s Cash for Clunkers rebate and look forward to some cleaner air. -Mary Salas Fricke More information on AB 118 incentives can be found at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/aqip/aqip.htm ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Wed, 29 Sep 2010 14:25:53 -0700 Subject: arbcombo -- ARB Chair's Seminar Series Tomorrow: - Ocean Rower gives Chilling Story of our Environment while Crossing the Pacific From: wfell@arb.ca.gov "Connecting the Dots of our Environment While Rowing the High Seas". Rosalind (Roz) Savage, United Kingdom Thursday, September 30, 2010 10:30 - 11:30 am PDT Coastal Hearing Room, 2nd Floor, Cal/EPA Building 1001 I Street, Sacramento, California Announcement and Presentation can be viewed at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/seminars/seminars.htm For “internal” users please check the internal webcast calendar at: http://epanet.ca.gov/broadcast/?bdo=1 For “external” users please check the external webcast calendar at: http://www.calepa.ca.gov/broadcast/?bdo=1 For your added convenience, while viewing the webcast, presentations can be downloaded at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/seminars/seminars.htm Your e-mail questions will be aired during the question & answer period following the presentations. Webcast Viewers, e-mail your questions to: coastalrm@calepa.ca.gov For more information on this seminar presentation please contact: Doug Grandt at (916) 324-0317 or dgrandt@arb.ca.gov For more information on this Seminar Series please contact: Peter Mathews at (916) 323-8711 or pmathews@arb.ca.gov To receive notices for upcoming Seminars please go to: http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and sign up for the seminars list serve. You are receiving this single arbcombo email because you are a subscriber to or have made a public comment to one or more of the following lists: aaqs, ab2588, ab32publichealth, ag, agriculture-sp, altdiesel, capandtrade, cargo, ccms, cc, cement, climatechampions, compost, consprod, diesel-retrofit, ej, freight, fuels, ghg-rep, ghg-ver, h2hwy, hcm, hdghg, icat, landfills, localaction, loco, manuremgmt, maritime, moyer, mvac-gwp, newsrel, offroad, oil-gas, onrdiesel, onroad, ordiesel, pmmeasures, pm-mort, railyard, recmarine, resburn, research, res, sbidling, schoolbus, school, seminars, shipincin, shorepower, showcase, tac-id, transport, vapor, variance, vavrcars, vee, vsr, zeb, zev-program. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to one of the lists aggregated to make this particular ARB combination listserve broadcast. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, visit the Flex Your Power website at www.fypower.org . ====================================================================== Date: Fri, 1 Oct 2010 11:10:25 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB applauds federal government for commitment to cleaner cars From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Tighter vehicle standards are technically feasible and economically sound. Release #:10-53 Date:10/01/2010 ARB PIO: (916) 322-2990 CONTACTs: Stanley Young 916-322-1309 (c)916-956-9409 syoung@arb.ca.gov California Air Resources Board applauds federal government for commitment to cleaner cars through 2025 New report demonstrates that future vehicle standards are technically feasible, economically sound SACRAMENTO - Today, California Air Resources Board Chairman Mary Nichols congratulated U.S. EPA Administrator Jackson and DOT Secretary Ray LaHood on releasing their notice of intent to establish greenhouse gas emissions standards for 2017-2025 cars. Nichols also affirmed California’s commitment to continue to work with the two federal agencies to develop final standards. Nichols noted that the Technical Assessment Report released simultaneously with the NOI was jointly developed by ARB and the federal agencies. The report demonstrates the feasibility of achieving a 3 to 6 percent annual improvement in greenhouse gas emissions using available or soon-to-be-available technologies. California is drafting new, combined standards for smog and other hazardous air contaminants as well as greenhouse gases. The Technical Assessment Report released today will help inform California’s development of the new standards coordinated with the plan for federal standards announced today. The goal of California’s combined standards is to guide the development of environmentally superior cars that will continue to deliver the performance, utility and safety car owners have come to expect. The approach will also provide auto engineers with a clear target for meeting environmental standards nationally over the next 15 years, paving the way for even lower emissions by mid-century. For a copy of Nichols’ letter, the Technical Assessment Report, and information on California’s approach to advanced clean cars, visit: http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/clean_cars/clean_cars.htm The Notice of Intent is at: http://www.epa.gov/otaq/climate/regulations.htm#new1 The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. Office of Communications 1001 I Street, Sacramento CA 95814. Ph: (916) 322-2990 ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 7 Oct 2010 11:07:21 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB, Contractors agree on proposed changes to rule requiring clean up of construction equipment From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Proposed changes provide extra flexibility and financial relief to businesses. Release #:10-54 Date:10/07/2010 ARB PIO: (916) 322-2990 CONTACTs: Karen Caesar 626-575-6725 kcaesar@arb.ca.gov ARB, Contractors agree on proposed changes to rule requiring clean up of construction equipment Proposed changes provide extra flexibility and financial relief to businesses SACRAMENTO - Representatives from the Air Resources Board and the Associated General Contractors of America trade organization today agreed on proposed changes to the state’s landmark “off-road” regulation that will offer affected businesses additional time and more flexible options for compliance. “This marks a new chapter for California and its effort to clean up emissions from diesel engines. We applaud the AGC for showing leadership on this issue and recognizing that California needs to control all sources of diesel emissions,” said ARB Chairman Mary Nichols. First adopted in July 2007, the rule affects the state's estimated 150,000 "off-road" vehicles used in construction, mining, airport ground support and other industries. It calls for installation of diesel soot filters and the replacement of older, dirtier engines with newer emission-controlled models to curb diesel exhaust. Improvements were originally scheduled to begin in March 2010 for larger fleets, with medium and small-sized fleets having staggered implementation through 2015. “We worked closely with the Associated General Contractors using a common set of data and assumptions about emissions to develop a set of proposals that will be cost effective and improve air quality,” said Nichols. “Our efforts today recognize the severe financial hardships that many businesses are experiencing due to the recession, while also ensuring that we meet our clean air obligations under Federal law.” The newly proposed amendments, which will be presented for approval at ARB’s December 16-17 hearing, would streamline the compliance process and offer businesses additional time and flexible options to meet requirements. They would also provide credits for efforts already made to reduce emissions, and incentivize continued early actions. If approved, the changes will: * Delay start of requirements until January 1, 2014 * Increase the number of “low-use” equipment exempted * Provide simpler compliance options for the smallest fleets * Extend benefits for businesses that comply before their deadline * Lower annual requirements to clean up engines Other portions of the regulation that went into effect this year, including reporting, idling and equipment labeling requirements for all fleets, remain intact and are being enforced. Diesel particulate matter, or diesel "soot," was identified as a toxic air contaminant in 1998. In 2000, the ARB established California's Diesel Risk Reduction Plan, which aims to reduce diesel emissions to 85 percent below 2000 levels by 2020. Other sources of diesel particulate matter such as port trucks, private fleet trucks, transit buses, cargo-handling equipment, trash trucks and ship engines have already been addressed through regulations, along with diesel fuel. A recent ARB study, using peer-reviewed U. S. EPA methodology, found that very fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is responsible for 9,000 premature deaths in California, underscoring the need to address the health risks associated with this form of pollution. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. Office of Communications 1001 I Street, Sacramento CA 95814. Ph: (916) 322-2990 ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Mon, 18 Oct 2010 10:35:57 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Smog Check restructuring promises lower costs, faster tests and cleaner air From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Program update allows technicians to use new technology. Release #:10-58 Date:10/18/2010 ARB PIO: (916) 322-2990 CONTACT: Stanley Young 916-322-1309 c-916-956-9409 syoung@arb.ca.gov Dimitri Stanich 916-322-2825 c-916-716-8047 dstanich@arb.ca.gov Smog Check restructuring promises lower costs, faster tests and cleaner air Program update allows technicians to use new technology EL MONTE, CAlIF - Today the Air Resources Board, Department of Consumer Affairs/Bureau of Automotive Repair and Assemblymember Mike Eng marked the adoption of AB 2289, a new law restructuring California’s Smog Check Program, streamlining and strengthening inspections, increasing penalties for misconduct, and reducing costs to motorists. The new law, sponsored by the Air Resources Board and the Bureau of Automotive Repair, promises faster and less expensive Smog Checks by taking advantage of diagnostic software installed on all vehicles since 2000. The new law also directs vehicles without this equipment to high-performing stations – rewarding these stations – helping ensure that these cars comply with current emission standards. As a result, this legislation could reduce up to an additional 70 tons per day of smog-forming emissions from vehicles statewide. "This is definitely not your father's old-fashioned smog test,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “Smog Check version 2.0 is plugged-in, wired and a winner. It's all about faster, cleaner and cheaper tests that will catch and clean up far more dirty cars than now. Your car's on-board computer has been enlisted in the battle for cleaner air." “AB 2289 revamps the current smog check program by using the latest technology to ensure air quality improvement and lower consumer costs,” said Assemblymember Eng (D-Monterey Park). “Cleaner air saves lives, reduces adverse effects on children and the elderly as well as Native American, African American, Latino, and Asian populations who are more likely to be affected by asthma.” “The Smog Check Program is a key element in California’s fight for clean air,” said BAR Chief Sherry Mehl. “AB 2289 provides BAR with new tools in its clean air efforts by holding stations and technicians accountable and by improving consumer convenience while reducing costs.” The program will reduce consumer costs by having stations take advantage of diagnostic software that monitors pollution-reduction components and tailpipe emissions. This technology, known as On-Board Diagnostics, has been required on all new vehicles since 1996. Under the new law, testing of passenger vehicles using OBD will begin mid-2013 on all vehicles model years 2000 or newer. This should result in reduced consumer costs by up to $180 million annually. Vehicles manufactured without these diagnostic systems will continue to be subject to a tailpipe inspection. Only Smog Check stations with a demonstrated history of high performance will be authorized to inspect these older vehicles. This change will improve testing, diagnosis and repair of these vehicles. An independent review of the Smog Check Program in 2009 revealed that within a short period of time after passing a Smog Check inspection, 19 percent of vehicles failed a subsequent emissions audit conducted by state officials. The same study also found that 49 percent of vehicles that had failed an audit conducted by BAR staff had failed and then subsequently passed an inspection at a licensed Smog Check station. California’s Smog Check Program, administered by the Bureau of Automotive Repair, was established in 1984 to identify high emitting vehicles in need of repair. Currently, the Smog Check Program removes approximately 400 tons of smog-forming emissions from California’s air each day. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 19 Oct 2010 11:31:11 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Statewide high school competition takes on climate change From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov First annual Climate Generation competition announced. Release #:10-56 Date:10/19/2010 ARB CONTACT: Dimitri Stanich 916-322-2825 916-716-8047 dstanich@arb.ca.gov British Council Contact: Samantha Yale 202-588-7838 Samantha.yale@britishcouncil.org Statewide high school competition takes on climate change First annual Climate Generation competition announced SACRAMENTO - Today the Air Resources Board and the British Council announced the start of California’s first annual Climate Generation Program, a high school competition challenging students to connect environmental school work with their daily lives. The competition creates an opportunity for students to gain real-world experience in project-management and leadership by requiring them to design and set in place programs that reduce their school’s carbon footprint. “The name ’Climate Generation’ says it all,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “This is an opportunity for young people who will be living with the effects of climate change to focus their passion and enthusiasm on real-world projects and solutions in their school today. It will also help us identify our new Climate Champions, the leaders who will express the concerns of California’s youth about climate change.” The Climate Generation Program, an outgrowth of the British Council’s Climate Champions program, is underway in a network of 60 countries. Its goal is to encourage young people to engage climate issues at local, national and international levels. The program is being launched in California and Minnesota. ARB, the lead agency for implementing AB 32, California’s landmark climate change law, is overseeing the state’s competition. In Minnesota, the Will Steger Foundation is responsible for managing the Climate Generation Program. “The British Council is excited to continue our partnership with the California Air Resources Board in the development of the Climate Generation Program,” said West Coast Manager for the British Council, Meghan Steed. “We feel that the climate action projects will complement California’s new Education and the Environment Initiative standards-based curriculum. We are looking forward to continuing to develop new “Climate Champions” who can represent the youth voice on global climate issues at the local, regional, national and international levels.” The California Education and the Environment Initiative, a new curriculum comprised of 85 units teaching select Science and History-Social Science academic standards will be promoted as an important element of the new Climate Generation program. The new curriculum, the result of a multi-agency education and environmental partnership, was developed to help students discover how science, history and social science relate to individual lives and connect to the world around them, focusing on their relationship to the environment. It was designed to engage students in a way that makes learning relevant and fun. “We believe the initiative will propel students to become tomorrow’s leaders on climate change, green technology, and any number of other environmental issues,” said Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency Linda Adams. High schools in California and Minnesota are eligible to participate in the 2010-2011 Climate Generation Program. The classroom projects must benefit the school and relate to one or more of the following topic areas: * Energy Conservation; * Renewable Energy; * Water Conservation; * Transportation; * Purchasing; * Facilities; and/or, * Awareness/Communication (Outreach). For more information on the Climate Generation Program go to: http://www.coolcalifornia.org/article/champion-the-cause. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 21 Oct 2010 14:30:16 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Board action saves diesel fleets money, time From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Revised rule eliminates duplicate testing for delivery vans and larger pick-up trucks. Release #:10-57 Date:10/21/2010 ARB PIO: (916) 322-2990 CONTACT: Karen Caesar 626-575-6728 kcaesar@arb.ca.gov Board action saves diesel fleets money, time Revised rule eliminates duplicate testing for delivery vans and larger pick-up trucks SACRAMENTO - The California Air Resources Board today voted to provide relief for fleet owners of medium-sized commercial diesel trucks by streamlining the procedures for testing their trucks’ emissions. The Board’s decision amended the Periodic Smoke Inspection Program (PSIP) to exempt diesel fleet owners of delivery vans and larger pick-up trucks 1998 and newer from mandatory annual smoke inspections because, under a new law, they must undergo a Smog Check every other year. The Board’s decision is expected to save industry approximately $4.2 million annually. The streamlined approach removing the PSIP test requirement affects 77,000 lighter trucks with weights between 6,000 and 14,000 pounds. The decision will have a negligible impact on air quality because these vehicles will remain subject to an every-other-year Smog Check, which includes a smoke inspection. “It makes good sense to amend this regulation,” said ARB Chairman Mary Nichols. “Our experts believe there is little air quality benefit to be gained from performing both types of smoke inspection. The Board’s action today will help many business owners save time, save money, and will still help to remove diesel pollution from the air thus protecting public health.” Enacted in 2007, AB 1488 requires diesel passenger cars and trucks manufactured after 1997 and weighing 14,000 pounds or less to be included in the California Smog Check Program, and thus be subject to biennial emissions testing starting Jan. 1, 2010. Administered by the Department of Consumer Affairs Bureau of Automotive Repair with assistance from ARB, diesel smog check inspections consist of a visual inspection of the emission control devices, a check of the vehicles on-board diagnostic system, and a visual assessment of the vehicle’s smoke level. The PSIP was signed into law in 1990 to control excess smoke emissions and tampering from fleets of heavy-duty diesel trucks and buses. The PSIP requires owners of California-based fleets with two or more diesel-powered vehicles weighing more than 6,000 pounds to conduct annual smoke opacity inspections. Vehicles that fail the test must be removed from service, repaired and retested. With the 2010 implementation of biennial Smog Checks for lighter diesel vehicles, nearly 77,000 diesel vehicles are subject to both Smog Checks and the smoke test. Without the amendment adopted today, owners of these vehicles would have to submit to both an annual PSIP test and a Smog Check every other year. Inspections under the PSIP program average $55 per test, while a Smog Check averages $47. Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing compounds. In 1998, California identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant based on its potential to cause cancer, premature death and other health problems. In 2000, the ARB established California's Diesel Risk Reduction Plan, which aims to reduce diesel emissions to 85 percent below 2000 levels by 2020. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Fri, 29 Oct 2010 09:46:21 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Proposed California greenhouse gas emissions trading program now available From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov ARB to take comments, continue work with stakeholders. Release #:10-58 Date:10/28/2010 ARB PIO: (916) 322-2990 CONTACT: Stanley Young desk 916-322-1309 cell 916-956-9409 syoung@arb.ca.gov Proposed California greenhouse gas emissions trading program now available ARB to take comments, continue work with stakeholders SACRAMENTO - Today the California Air Resources Board announced the release of its proposed greenhouse gas cap-and-trade regulation. The release begins a public comment period culminating in a December 16 public hearing in Sacramento, California, at which the Board will consider adopting the proposed program. During the public comment period, ARB staff will continue to meet with stakeholders to refine the regulation and develop proposed changes to present at the Board hearing. “This program is a crucial element of reducing our greenhouse gas emissions. It will help drive innovation, create more green jobs and clean up our air and environment” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “We have worked closely with all interested parties and stakeholders to make sure that the program provides flexibility to reach our emissions reduction goals while taking into consideration the current economic climate and the need to fully protect California’s economy.” A key part of ARB’s AB 32 Scoping Plan, the cap-and-trade program provides an overall limit on the emissions from sources responsible for 85 percent of California’s greenhouse gas emissions. This program allows covered entities the greatest flexibility for compliance, stimulates clean energy technologies, increases energy security and independence, protects public health and will drive clean, green jobs in California. It is designed to work in collaboration with other complementary policies that expand energy efficiency programs, reduce vehicle emissions, and encourage innovation. For more details and instructions on how to comment on the proposed regulation, see the Notice of Public Hearing at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/regact/2010/capandtrade10/capnotice.pdf (Comments will be accepted starting November 1, 2010. ) A brief overview of the program is at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/2010/capandtrade.pdf . The regulation and all related material is at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/regact/2010/capandtrade10/capandtrade10.htm . AB 32, signed by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2006, is California's Global Warming Solutions Act that set in law aggressive greenhouse gas reduction targets that will reduce emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. In 2008 ARB approved the AB 32 Scoping Plan that uses a mix of approaches to meet climate change goals, including a cap-and-trade program and other complementary measures. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ##### ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Tue, 9 Nov 2010 10:33:31 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Carbon Monoxide: A Winters Health Threat From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Gas-using appliances should be inspected and carbon monoxide detectors installed. Release #:10-59 Date:09/11/2011 ARB PIO: (916) 322-2990 CONTACT: Dimitri Stanich 916-322-2825 dstanich@arb.ca.gov Carbon Monoxide: A Winter’s Health Threat Gas-using appliances should be inspected and carbon monoxide detectors installed SACRAMENTO - The Air Resources Board is urging Californians to guard against carbon-monoxide poisoning by having detectors installed and gas appliances inspected before the cold weather arrives. On average each year about 35 Californians and 450 people nationally die from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning, and many more experience flu-like symptoms from exposure to harmful but non-lethal levels of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that blocks the use of oxygen in the body. Young children and individuals with heart disease are those most likely to be affected by carbon monoxide poisoning. Warning signs of exposure to carbon monoxide are headache, drowsiness, nausea and inability to concentrate; these symptoms will go away when the affected person is removed from the area and given fresh air. "Carbon monoxide is a silent killer, and tragically takes lives in California every year without warning,” said ARB Chairman Mary Nichols. “We can prevent those unnecessary deaths. It’s a simple step to protect your family by installing detectors and having your local utility check your house for leaks." More than half of all carbon monoxide poisoning deaths are from malfunctioning or improperly vented combustion appliances in homes. ARB recommends: * Properly use and maintain any appliances that produce a flame, such as gas furnaces and gas and propane space heaters; this can prevent exposure to lethal levels of carbon monoxide. * Never use gas ovens to heat the home; * Never use kerosene or propane space heaters, charcoal grills, barbecues, or unvented gas logs indoors. These are dangerous and cannot be used legally in California homes; * Use caution when heating with propane appliances, older wall or floor gas furnaces and fireplaces; * Obtain annual check-ups of all gas appliances by a qualified professional; * Use Underwriters Laboratory approved carbon monoxide detectors that sound an alarm when dangerous carbon monoxide levels are found; some also have warning signals or digital readouts to indicate lower levels of carbon monoxide that may indicate an appliance problem; * Place emergency generators outdoors and away from windows and doors to prevent fumes from entering the home; and, * Be especially careful with appliances in recreational vehicles and houseboats, and be sure to use carbon monoxide detectors specifically made for these locations. In addition, do not to operate cars or other internal combustion engines in enclosed spaces or attached garages. A third of carbon monoxide poisoning deaths are the result of accidental exposure from vehicles running in closed garages. ARB data show that outdoor carbon monoxide levels rise throughout California between the months of November and March because of little or no breeze which causes stagnant weather conditions. These levels have been measured in covered garages and at busy intersections. Rising levels of outdoor carbon monoxide may generate health complaints in sensitive people. For more information on indoor combustion pollutants, see our indoor air quality guideline entitled "Combustion Pollutants in Your Home" at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/combustf.htm. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 18 Nov 2010 12:14:06 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- California to get cleaner consumer products From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov New regulations protect state from ozone and toxic chemicals. California to get cleaner consumer products New regulations protect state from ozone and toxic chemicals SACRAMENTO - Today the Air Resources Board adopted regulations that will reduce air pollution from 11 categories of consumer products including bug sprays and a variety of household and professionally-used cleaners. The new regulations target volatile organic compounds and toxic air contaminants and when fully implemented will cut these emissions by about 7 tons per day, reduce airborne carcinogens, minimize potential greenhouse gas emissions and protect aquatic species from chemical runoff. The regulations will be fully effective December 31, 2013. “ARB works with manufacturers to assure their products are effective but safe for the environment,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “These regulations are an example of how ARB balances public health with business interests.” The new regulations address the emissions from a range of consumer product categories including insecticides, general purpose cleaners and degreasers, glass cleaners, and oven and grill cleaners. ARB estimates the reduction of air pollution to be the equivalent of removing 500,000 vehicles from California’s roads. ARB is required to reduce volatile organic emissions from the widest possible range of sources in an effort to minimize the state’s ozone levels. The volatile organic compounds mix with other air pollutants and ‘cook’ when exposed to sunlight to form ozone. Ozone inflames the respiratory tract, causes coughing, chest tightness and aggravation of asthma symptoms, and poses a serious threat to sufferers of cardio-pulmonary disease. Ozone can also substantially damage crops, forests and native plants. ARB efforts to reduce ozone are required in order to comply with federal clean-air standards. Missing compliance deadlines could result in the loss of federal transportation funds and other sanctions. To date, ARB consumer-product regulations have eliminated 225 tons per day of volatile organic compound emissions compared to 1990 levels. Still, ARB estimates that emissions from consumer products continue to produce 245 tons per day, about 12 percent of the state’s total burden of these smog-forming compounds. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2010 17:22:59 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- ARB Chairman Applauds Decision to Clean Air Pollution, Reduce Health Risks at Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach From: wfell@arb.ca.gov Today, Chairman of the California Air Resources Board Mary Nichols applauded the Los Angeles and Long Beach Boards of Harbor Commissioners on their unanimous joint adoption of the 2010 San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP) Update. The Update adds aggressive new goals and strategies for reducing diesel air pollution and health risks from the freight transportation industry serving the two busiest container ports in North America. Port-related activity impacts surrounding neighborhoods and inland communities near rail and warehousing operations. “We are pleased to again recognize the environmental leadership of the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach. Today, the Boards of Harbor Commissioners continued to embrace responsibility for the impacts of port air pollution by setting far-reaching baywide standards to protect the health of residents living in the surrounding neighborhoods, communities and transportation corridors. The 2010 Update builds on the success of the Clean Trucks Program to develop and deploy low-emission technology for the locomotives and ships that dominate the health risk. The ports’ actions over the next decade will help us implement regional plans to clean up California’s air, and their decision today fully supports ARB’s commitment to address air pollution in the state’s most highly impacted communities.” ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Mon, 6 Dec 2010 15:00:33 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- CoolCalifornia Small Business Awards nominations now being accepted From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov ARB to recognize green business efforts, climate leadership. Release #:10-62 Date:12/12/2010 ARB PIO: (916) 322-2990 CONTACT: Stanley Young 916-322-1309 syoung@arb.ca.gov Gennet Paauwe 916-322-1061 gpaauwe@arb.ca.gov CoolCalifornia Small Business Awards nominations now being accepted ARB to recognize green business efforts, climate leadership SACRAMENTO - The California Air Resources Board is accepting nominations through January 24 for its CoolCalifornia Small Business Awards that will recognize small businesses from across the state that demonstrate climate leadership. The awards will recognize California small businesses with fewer than 100 employees that reduced their greenhouse gas emissions, promoted climate-friendly practices and integrated the use of CoolCalifornia.org into their business operations in 2010. “There are many small California businesses that are taking innovative and creative steps to green their operations and raise their bottom line,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “The CoolCalifornia Small Business Awards offer them an opportunity to help other businesses learn how simple steps can cut their carbon footprint and save them money.” Businesses that incorporate climate actions into their operations improve their bottom line and can serve as ambassadors for other small businesses looking to take these steps. Awards will be given to California small businesses in two categories: * CoolCalifornia Small Business of the Year Award: Awarded to those that took significant actions to reduce their climate impacts and can demonstrate measurable results. This includes achieving measurable and documented greenhouse gas emission reductions; energy savings and/or cost savings; investment in clean/renewable energy; purchased environmentally preferable products; purchased electric/hybrid vehicles; and, educated employees, customers and the general public. * CoolCalifornia Climate Leader Award: Awarded to those that were proactive in reducing their climate impacts. This may include: changed lighting, implemented recycling programs, purchased environmentally preferable products and increased weatherization. California small businesses that meet the requirements as defined by the California Department of General Services can apply for an award online from December 6, 2010, through January 24, 2011, at http://www.coolcalifornia.org/article/small-business-award-program. The ARB will recognize winners in May at a public ceremony in Sacramento and will feature their profiles on the CoolCalifornia.org website. Last year ARB recognized 21 small businesses that took a variety of actions to save money while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For a list of the 2009 Small Business Award Winners, see www.coolcalifornia.org Previous winners gained recognition for installing compact fluorescent lights or solar panels; supporting carpooling and telecommuting; developing business-specific climate action plans; and, incentivizing climate-friendly behavior with employee award programs. The award program was created to help small businesses participate in the implementation of AB 32, California's Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, and the AB 32 Scoping Plan adopted by the ARB in December 2008. AB 32 was signed into law by Governor Schwarzenegger in September 2006 and calls on California to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. ARB is currently seeking sponsors for the CoolCalifornia Small Business Awards. Please contact Mary Farr at mfarr@arb.ca.gov or (916) 445-8290 for sponsorship opportunities. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. Office of Communications 1001 I Street, Sacramento CA 95814. Ph: (916) 322-2990 ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 16 Dec 2010 19:41:17 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- ARB gives green light to emissions trading program From: gpaauwe@arb.ca.gov ARB has just issued the following news release. Release #:10-63 Date:12/16/2010 ARB PIO: (916) 322-2990 CONTACT: Stanley Young 916-956-9409 syoung@arb.ca.gov California Air Resources Board gives green light to California’s emissions trading program Cap-and-trade program will drive innovation and jobs, and will promote efficiency, clean energy SACRAMENTO - The California Air Resources Board today endorsed the cap-and-trade regulation, marking a significant milestone toward reducing California’s greenhouse gas emissions under its AB 32 law. ARB’s cap-and-trade regulation, along with several complementary measures will drive the development of green jobs and set the state on track to a clean energy future. The regulation is a key measure to achieve the greenhouse gas reduction goals of AB 32, California’s pioneering climate change law signed by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2006. “This program is the capstone of our climate policy, and will accelerate California’s progress toward a clean energy economy,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “It rewards efficiency and provides companies with the greatest flexibility to find innovative solutions that drive green jobs, clean our environment, increase our energy security and ensure that California stands ready to compete in the booming global market for clean and renewable energy.” The regulation sets a statewide limit on the emissions from sources responsible for 80 percent of California’s greenhouse gas emissions and establishes a price signal needed to drive long-term investment in cleaner fuels and more efficient use of energy. The program is designed to provide covered entities the flexibility to seek out and implement the lowest-cost options to reduce emissions. The cap-and-trade program also works in concert with other measures, such as standards for cleaner vehicles, low-carbon fuels, renewable electricity and energy efficiency, and complements and supports California’s existing efforts to reduce smog-forming and toxic air pollutants. The cap-and-trade program and the other measures to reduce greenhouse gases provide a model for action that can be used at the federal, state and regional levels. As climate policies are being addressed worldwide, California’s early actions are positioning its economy to reap the benefits on the world stage and are catalyzing action throughout the country and the world. “The cap-and-trade program provides California with the opportunity to fill the growing global demand for the projects, patents and products needed to move away from fossil fuels and to cleaner energy sources,” added Nichols The regulation will cover 360 businesses representing 600 facilities and is divided into two broad phases: an initial phase beginning in 2012 that will include all major industrial sources along with utilities; and, a second phase that starts in 2015 and brings in distributors of transportation fuels, natural gas and other fuels. Companies are not given a specific limit on their greenhouse gas emissions but must supply a sufficient number of allowances (each covering the equivalent of one ton of carbon dioxide) to cover their annual emissions. Each year, the total number of allowances issued in the state drops, requiring companies to find the most cost-effective and efficient approaches to reducing their emissions. By the end of the program in 2020 there will be a 15 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to today, reaching the same level of emissions as the state experienced in 1990, as required under AB 32. To ensure a gradual transition, ARB will provide significant free allowances to all industrial sources during the initial period (2012-2014). Companies that need additional allowances to cover their emissions can purchase them at regular quarterly auctions ARB will conduct, or buy them on the market. Electric utilities will also be given allowances and they will be required to sell those allowances and dedicate the revenue generated for the benefit of their ratepayers and to help achieve AB 32 goals. Eight percent of a company’s emissions can be covered using credits from compliance-grade offset projects, promoting the development of beneficial environmental projects in the forestry and agriculture sectors. Included in the regulation are four protocols, or systems of rules, covering carbon accounting rules for offset credits in forestry management, urban forestry, dairy methane digesters, and the destruction of existing banks of ozone-depleting substances in the U.S. (mostly in the form of refrigerants in older refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment). There are also provisions to develop international offset programs that could include the preservation of international forests. A Memorandum of Understanding has already been signed with Chiapas, Mexico, and Acre, Brazil, at the Governor’s Global Climate Summit 3 to establish these offset programs. The regulation is designed so that California may link up with programs in other states or provinces within the Western Climate Initiative, including New Mexico, British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec. Efforts are also underway to link the WCI with other regional climate programs, such as the Midwest Greenhouse Gas Reduction Accord and the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative which covers the power generation emissions of 10 northeastern states. The regulation has been in development for the past two years since the passage of the Scoping Plan in 2008. ARB staff held 40 public workshops on every aspect of the cap-and-trade program design, and hundreds of meetings with stakeholders. ARB staff also benefited from the analysis of a blue ribbon committee of economic advisers, consultation with world-renowned institutions that specialize in climate issues, and advice from experts with experience from other cap-and-trade programs elsewhere in the world. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Fri, 17 Dec 2010 17:57:43 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Changes to diesel rules protect public health, provide relief and flexibility to California businesses From: gpaauwe@arb.ca.gov Board amends diesel rules Public health still protected as economy recovers . http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/newsrelease.php?id=171 Release #:10-64 Date:12/17/2010 ARB PIO: (916) 322-2990 CONTACT: Karen Caesar (626)575-6725 kcaesar@arb.ca.gov Stanley Young (916)956-9409 syoung@arb.ca.gov Changes to diesel rules protect public health, provide relief and flexibility to California businesses Public health still protected as economy recovers Print SACRAMENTO - The California Air Resources Board today took further steps to fight air pollution and protect public health by offering businesses a variety of options to comply with regulations to reduce soot from diesel engines. “No other state, and no other nation has such an extensive set of rules to slash pollution from diesel engines. The diesel rules for vehicles cover almost everything that moves on or off the road, from trucks and buses to off-road construction equipment, and over the next 12 years they will prevent 3,900 premature deaths by removing thousands of tons of diesel soot from the air we breathe,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “The changes we set in place today will continue those public health benefits while reducing the cost of compliance by more than 60 percent.” The amendments complement earlier emission control measures that aggressively target diesel pollution, which is associated with a host of health ailments including cancer. With the amended regulations in place, diesel particulate matter emissions will be reduced from today’s levels by 50 percent by 2014 and 70 percent by 2020. Over the past year, ARB staff held 20 public workshops throughout the state to solicit stakeholder input and discuss options for revising diesel control measures affecting commercially owned trucks, buses, port trucks, tractor trailers and off-road vehicles, including construction and large-spark ignition equipment (e.g, forklifts). Statewide On-Road Truck and Bus Regulation: Approved in December 2008, this regulation will clean up emissions from the nearly one million heavy duty diesel trucks that operate in California. The approved amendments ensure that the regulation will continue to do its job, helping the state meet its federal obligations under the Clean Air Act while also allowing businesses more flexible compliance options. Key amendments will: * Reduce overall compliance costs by about 60 percent as California recovers from the recession; * Exempt about 150,000 lighter trucks from having to retrofit withl particulate filters; * Delay initial compliance date for the retrofitting of heavier trucks and allow them to operate another 8 years before being required to use a truck that meets 2010 emissions standards; and, * Expand credits for fleet downsizing, adding cleaner vehicles ahead of any regulatory requirements, and for installation of early retrofits. In addition, the Board voted to require all school buses greater than 14,000 lbs. GVWR to be retrofit with diesel filters by 2014. If no retrofit is available, the buses have until 2018 to be replaced by vehicles with a 2010 model year engine or emissions equivalent. For more details on the Statewide Truck and Bus Regulation, please see: http://www.arb.ca.gov/dieseltruck Off-Road (e.g., construction equipment) Regulation: First approved in July 2007, this pioneering regulation – the first of its kind in the nation – is aimed at reducing diesel emissions from the state's estimated 150,000 "off-road" vehicles used in construction, mining, airport ground support and other industries. The state’s economic downturn, which began after this regulation was adopted, heavily impacted this sector, causing emissions to decline primarily due to fewer pieces of equipment in use, along with reduced activity of the remaining equipment. As amended, the regulation will: * Delay implementation for all fleets by four years; * Reduce costs by 97 percent in next 5 years; * Expand or extend credits for businesses that comply before their deadline or have downsized; and, * Ease annual requirements to clean up engines (e.g., small fleets can extend phase-out period for oldest equipment over 10 years, from 2019 to 2029). For more details on the Off-Road Regulation, please see: http://www.arb.ca.gov/ordiesel Port Truck Regulation: Approved in December 2007, the port truck (or “drayage”) regulation was adopted to modernize and clean up some of the oldest, dirtiest trucks in the fleet – those that serve the state’s busiest ports and rail yards. The regulation has already had an impact by banning pre-1994 trucks from these facilities and requiring diesel particulate filters on others earlier this year, enabling adjacent communities to breathe a little easier. The new amendments will: * Assure that all trucks serving the ports, including the smaller Class 7 trucks, will have diesel particulate filters by 2014; and, * Expand the regulation to include trucks operating outside port or rail yard properties to prevent non-compliant trucks from receiving cargo from clean trucks in those areas. For more details on the Port Truck Regulation, please see: http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/onroad/porttruck/porttruck.htm Other amendments adopted today affect the Heavy Duty Diesel Greenhouse Gas Reduction Measure (http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/hdghg/hdghg.htm) and the Large Spark Ignition Regulation (http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/offroad/orspark/orspark.htm) California’s diesel emissions control measures were adopted under the ARB’s Diesel Risk Reduction Plan, which was approved by the Board in 2000, two years after diesel exhaust was declared a toxic air contaminant by the state’s Scientific Review Panel. The ARB has already passed measures addressing urban buses, garbage trucks, school bus and truck idling, stationary engines, transport refrigeration units, cargo handling equipment at ports and rail yards, ship engines, harbor craft and fuel. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ====================================================================== Date: Thu, 30 Dec 2010 14:38:06 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Over $1 million in settlement funds go to community colleges, clean air fund From: dstanich@arb.ca.gov Settlements benefit education and air quality research . Release #:10-65 Date:12/30/2010 ARB PIO: (916) 322-2990 CONTACT: Karen Caesar 626-575-6728 kcaesar@arb.ca.gov Over $1 million in settlement funds go to community colleges, clean air fund Settlements benefit education and air quality research SACRAMENTO - The California Air Resources Board distributed over $1 million to community colleges and a state clean air fund as a result of settlements with over 58 companies that violated clean air laws. California law requires that companies doing business in the state meet clean air standards and routinely check to make sure their equipment complies with ARB rules. The California Air Pollution Control Fund will receive just over $1 million for projects and research to improve California's air quality. Over $76,000 will go to the Peralta college district to fund emissions education classes conducted by participating California community colleges around the state. The funds come from settlements for the following violations: * Sold uncertified hybrid engines for in use transit buses ($50,000), ISE Corporation of Poway, Calif. * Offered for sale and sold non-California certified vehicles ($50,000), Tiffany Coachworks of Corona, Calif. * Sold generators without the required emission control catalysts ($204,000), Robin America of Wood Dale, Ill. * Sold uncertified tractors and windrower engines ($77,000), AGCO Corporation of Duluth, Ga. * Modified and sold new 2010 Chevrolet Camaros for use or registration in California ($12,500), Hendrick Automotive Group of Charlotte, N.C. * Sold catalytic converters that were no longer for sale in the state of California ($125,000), O’Reilly Auto Parts of Springfield, Mo. Fifty-six other companies settled for a total of $629,306 for failure to: * Properly inspect their diesel vehicles, as required by California law; and/or, * Properly affix emissions labels on engines; and/or, * Register and submit transport refrigeration unit facility reports. Diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles emit smog-forming pollutants, including nitrogen oxides. In 1998 the ARB listed diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant in order to protect public health. Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing compounds. Theses emissions are linked health problems and can exacerbate common respiratory conditions such as asthma. The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards. Office of Communications 1001 I Street, Sacramento CA 95814. Ph: (916) 322-2990 ====================================================================== You are subscribed to the newsrel mailing list. To UNSUBSCRIBE: Please go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/listserv.php and enter your email address and click on the button "Display Email Lists." To unsubscribe, please click inside the appropriate box to uncheck it and go to the bottom of the screen to submit your request. You will receive an automatic email message confirming that you have successfully unsubscribed. Also, please read our listserve disclaimer at http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/disclaim.htm . The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our website at www.arb.ca.gov. ======================================================================