Date: Mon, 5 Jan 2015 16:31:51 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Study: CoolCalifornia City Challenge is 'living laboratory' to engage Californians in climate action From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1xLXxNn -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 5, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-01 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov Multi-city competitions can be successful strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, research shows CoolCalifornia City Challenge serves as living laboratory to test new approaches to engage Californians in climate action A first-of-its-kind research project demonstrated that participation in a pilot inter-city carbon footprint reduction competition far exceeded expectations and provided hard evidence for the kinds of approaches that successfully engage individuals and communities to take action to fight climate change. ARB is hosting a research seminar and webcast open to the public at 1:30 p.m. January 8. For more information, go to: http://bit.ly/arbseminars The webinar will be archived on ARB’s website. The CoolCalifornia City Challenge is part of an Air Resources Board-funded research project by the Renewable and Appropriate Energy Lab at UC Berkeley. The multi-year study, which concluded last month, developed, implemented and evaluated the pilot competition. Nearly 3,000 people in eight cities participated in the 13-month pilot competition, conducted in 2013. Data entry by participants demonstrated that they used 14 percent less electricity than a control group. A second competition was conducted in 2014, following the pilot. Ten cities participated and $100,000 in incentive and prize money was provided by Energy Upgrade California™, a statewide initiative to educate Californians about how to manage energy in their homes and businesses. In the Challenge, cities connect with citizens both directly and through community-based groups to take simple, everyday actions to cut their carbon footprint such as riding a bicycle instead of driving or hanging clothes on a laundry line instead of powering up the dryer. During the pilot contest, more than 900 participants manually entered more than 10,000 monthly electricity, natural gas and motor vehicle odometer readings in the online software, which calculated how many points those actions generated for each household and municipality. The city with the most points at the end of the competition is named the “Coolest California City.” Besides a decrease in energy use among participants, other results of the pilot project included: • The primary reported motivations of participants were similar across demographic population segments, with altruistic motives greatly outranking financial savings or other external motives, such as rewards or recognition. • Households with older participants far outperformed those with younger participants. • Income, political identity and attitudes toward climate change affected participation levels, but not performance, or points. “Participants reported very altruistic motivations for joining the program, including improving where they live, protecting the environment and helping local organizations,” said Professor Daniel Kammen, who led the pilot research for the Challenge, along with lead researcher Christopher Jones, at UC Berkeley’s Renewable and Appropriate Energy Laboratory. “This type of community-based competition can help California in its efforts to transition to a sustainable, clean energy economy.” Researchers concluded there is a high level of interest across California cities for successful community engagement programs. In order to realize the greatest benefits of a statewide inter-city competition, future programs should increase motivation for all cities, and programs should be designed to meet a wide range of needs from communities with differing resource levels and diverse populations. The CoolCalifornia City Challenge was created to encourage voluntary carbon footprint reductions throughout the state. Because voluntary actions are an essential component of California’s greenhouse gas reduction portfolio, ARB has developed a variety of tools and resources to support these non-regulatory efforts. The Challenge serves as a living laboratory to test new approaches to engage California residents and communities in climate action, and helps to inform future efforts to promote and quantify carbon footprint reductions and help establish best practices for citizen engagement. For press releases announcing the City Challenge winners: 2013 winners - http://bit.ly/17ejf0A 2014 winners - http://bit.ly/CACityChallenge California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 12 Jan 2015 11:26:48 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board fines pair of food suppliers $160,000 for violating refrigerant management rule From: aleaks@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1y5bIf0 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 12, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-02 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dclegern@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board fines pair of food suppliers $160,000 for violating refrigerant management rule The Air Resources Board today announced financial settlements with two California food supply companies for violating a rule on the management of high global warming potential (high GWP) refrigerants. The companies are Performance Foodservice of Southern California and Engelhart Gourmet Foods Inc. of Fairfield. High GWP refrigerants have global warming potential which is often thousands of times greater than carbon dioxide. These cases involve the companies’ failure to file on time their annual reports of greenhouse gas emissions. All businesses with a stationary refrigeration unit containing 200 pounds or more of high GWP refrigerant must file this report by March 1 each year. The filing is required under the Regulation for the Management of High Global Warming Refrigerants for Stationary Sources, more commonly known as the Refrigerant Management Program. “The Refrigeration Management Program is an important part of California’s effort to fight climate change,” said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. “Companies must file annual reports in order to verify that they have regularly serviced their equipment and corrected leaks promptly, preventing emissions of high GWP refrigerants.” The Refrigerant Management Program is one of a suite of programs under AB 32, California’s climate law, designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. The refrigerants in both cases are R-22 and R-507. R 22 has a global warming potential of 1,810, which means it can trap heat 1,810 times more effectively than carbon dioxide. R-507 has a global warming potential 3,985 times higher than carbon dioxide. Performance Foodservice supplies food, kitchen and restaurant supplies. A notice of violation was issued by ARB to Performance for filing its 2012 annual report late. The Air Resources Board assessed a $95,000 penalty for late filing. Moving forward, Performance has changed its recordkeeping and monitoring procedures to facilitate regulatory compliance. Engelhart Gourmet Foods Inc. supplies sausage and condiments. A notice of violation was issued to Engelhart for submitting its 2012 annual report late. The Air Resources Board assessed a $65,800 penalty for late filing. The company also has changed its recordkeeping and monitoring procedures. Both companies faced potential penalties of up to $10,000 per day. However, both were cooperative and filed the late reports quickly, once notified of the violations. These are also first violations in both cases. Both cases concluded in settlement agreements. High GWP gases are used in a wide variety of products, from refrigeration and air-conditioning, to insulating foams, fire protection equipment, solvents and other applications. Currently, high-GWP gases account for 3 percent of California’s total GHG emissions, but are projected to rise to nearly 8 percent by 2020 as they are used to replace gases which damage the Earth’s ozone layer. For more information about the Refrigerant Management Program, see: http://www.arb.ca.gov/stoprefrigerantleaks California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 13 Jan 2015 11:55:12 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Shippers pay $147,000 for violating fuel regulation From: aleaks@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1suWGhC -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 13, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-03 CONTACT: Karen Caesar (916) 322-2990 Karen.Caesar@arb.ca.gov Shippers pay $147,000 for violating fuel regulation Four marine vessels cited for not using cleaner diesel fuel inside Regulated California Waters SACRAMENTO - The California Air Resources Board has fined four shipping companies a combined $146,719 for failing to switch from dirty diesel “bunker” fuel to cleaner, low-sulfur marine distillate fuel upon entering Regulated California Waters – within 24 nautical miles of the California coast. “State anti-pollution laws require shippers to do their part to protect air quality,” said ARB Enforcement Chief Jim Ryden. “Shippers who comply are helping to protect the health of those who live, work, and go to schools near ports and shipping lanes. Many Californians don’t realize that diesel soot and other pollutants can also travel far inland to impact communities nowhere near the sea. Our Ocean-Going Vessels Fuel Rule strives to protect residents throughout the state from the harmful impacts of ship pollution.” Adopted in 2008, the Ocean-Going Vessels Fuel Rule was designed to reduce fine particulate pollution, oxides of nitrogen and sulfur oxide emissions from ocean-going vessels to improve air quality and public health in California. The companies mentioned below were fined for either failing to switch to cleaner fuel within, regulated waters, or for switching fuels in an untimely manner. They all took prompt action after being notified of the violations, and, under ARB’s supervision, are complying with state law. • Wealth Ocean Ship Management Co., Ltd. (China) - $27,750 o Vessel name: Uni Auc One • China Shipping Container Lines (China) - $35,719 o Vessel name: Xin Mei Zhou • Liberty One Ship Management (Germany) - $53,000 o Vessel name: BBC Arizona • Kitaura Kaiun Co., Ltd. (Japan) - $30,250 o Vessel name: Ocean Seagull 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 health problems. 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. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 26 Jan 2015 12:47:47 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- California small businesses recognized for implementing climate-smart strategies From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1ymW1Ld -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 26, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-04 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov California small businesses recognized for implementing climate-smart strategies SACRAMENTO - Today the Air Resources Board announced the winners of the fifth CoolCalifornia Small Business Awards, recognizing small businesses that demonstrate leadership and make notable, voluntary achievements toward reducing their carbon footprint. “These small business leaders come from all over California, and whether they are running a plumbing company or a bagel shop, they are demonstrating that the connection between climate-friendly business practices and a healthy bottom line is both real and positive,” ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols said. The 16 award winners were selected from competitive applicants, representing a variety of business sectors from across the state. These businesses took a number of different actions to save money and improve their business operations while reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impacts. Some of the steps they took included installing LED lights, solar panels and energy-efficient equipment; eliminating toxic chemicals and solvents; using eco-friendly, recycled/reused/repurposed products; composting food scraps and plant material; installing aerators on faucets and low-flow toilets; and starting or enhancing recycling and water conservation programs. Four businesses received the Business of the Year award for demonstrating exceptional climate change management practices and emission reductions, while documenting their cost savings, return on investment and benefits received from taking specific actions. Twelve businesses were acknowledged as Climate Leaders for taking proactive steps to reduce their impact on our climate and communicating this information to their employees and customers. The winners come from 15 cities across California and represent a variety of business types, from manufacturing, dry cleaning, baking and bowling to floral design, dental health and veterinary services. 2014 CoolCalifornia Small Business Award Winners Businesses of the Year: Capitola Veterinary Hospital, Capitola Ohana Pet Hospital, Ventura Precision Labs Calibration, Palmdale SRT Consultants, San Francisco Climate Leaders: Allterra Solar, Santa Cruz Aperia Technologies Inc., Burlingame Capitol Bowl, West Sacramento Daisy Rose Floral Design, Sonoma Geo. H. Wilson Inc., Santa Cruz Lake Merritt Dental, Oakland Laura Lawson, DDS, Albany Manhattan Bread & Bagel, Manhattan Beach Metro Lighting, Berkeley Plaza Cleaners, Thousand Oaks Studio City Orthodontist, Studio City Way To Be Designs, Hayward The award winners were scored by two-person teams comprised of staff from public agencies and private businesses. ARB staff and leadership further reviewed scores, conducted site visits and performed environmental reviews to select the 2014 winners. Awards will be presented to the winning businesses at a ceremony from 4 to 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 12, 2015, at the Cal-EPA Building, 1001 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. CoolCalifornia.org is an online resource providing all Californians with the information and tools they need to take climate action. The website features money-saving actions, climate calculators, case studies and links to financial incentives to help individuals, small businesses, local government and youth gain the knowledge needed to take simple steps for a sustainable future. For more information, visit www.coolcalifornia.org California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 28 Jan 2015 14:32:15 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Yoshimura fined $90,000 for offering illegal "Cherry Bomb" off-road aftermarket parts for sale in California From: aleaks@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1Lilujn -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 28, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-05 CONTACT: John Swanton (916) 322-2990 john.swanton@arb.ca.gov Yoshimura fined $90,000 for offering illegal “Cherry Bomb” off-road aftermarket parts for sale in California SACRAMENTO- The California Air Resources Board today announced that Yoshimura Research & Development of America Inc. has agreed to a mutual settlement totaling $90,000 to resolve violations of the California Health and Safety Code related to the sales of illegal off-road aftermarket performance parts in California. Air Resources Board investigators discovered that Yoshimura sold performance programmers for pollution controlled ATVs without receiving an Executive Order exemption from California’s anti-tampering laws. The device, known as the “Cherry Bomb,” was sold for a number of years without any formal evaluation of its impact on the emissions control capabilities of the vehicle on which it was installed on. “Maintaining the integrity of the emissions control systems is an important part of California’s clean air efforts, even for systems installed on recreation and performance products,” said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. “We take seriously the failure by any manufacturer to demonstrate that its product does not reduce the effectiveness of the emissions controls installed by the vehicle’s original manufacturer.” California law prohibits the sales, delivery or installation of aftermarket parts that modify the original emissions control systems of vehicles unless they are proven to not reduce their effectiveness. Manufacturers of both on- and off-road aftermarket and performance parts must follow a comprehensive evaluation process to receive an Executive Order exemption from anti-tampering laws prior to the sale or marketing of modifications. Yoshimura fully cooperated with ARB during its investigation and resolution of this issue and production of the Cherry Bomb ended in July 2012. The $90,000 penalty collected under the settlement will be paid to the California Air Pollution Control Fund, which supports efforts to decrease air pollution through education and the adoption of cleaner technologies. Modified off-road recreational vehicles that no longer meet California's emission control requirements pose a significant health threat to California residents. They create higher amounts of smog-forming pollutants, which can then exacerbate respiratory ailments and negatively affect other health conditions such as shortness of breath, headaches, birth defects, cancer or damage to internal organs. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 29 Jan 2015 13:47:43 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- MTD Southwest Inc. fined $435,000 for selling garden maintenance equipment that violated California's air pollution laws From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1DkHioQ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 29, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-06 CONTACT: Franceska Ramos (916) 322-2990 franceska.ramos@arb.ca.gov MTD Southwest Inc. fined $435,000 for selling garden maintenance equipment that violated California’s air pollution laws $108,750 to go to community colleges for small engine maintenance, repair courses SACRAMENTO - The California Air Resources Board announced that MTD Southwest Inc. has agreed to a settlement totaling $435,000 to resolve violations of California laws related to sales of uncertified small off-road engines such as lawn, garden and other maintenance utility equipment in California. In early 2012, MTD Southwest discovered unexpected emission testing results while preparing certification documentation for engines to be used in its equipment. The manufacturer of outdoor power equipment, with a facility in Tempe, Ariz., immediately launched an internal investigation and determined that a change in engine materials resulted in engines whose emissions did not match those submitted for the original certification. MTD Southwest voluntarily disclosed the matter to ARB and conducted a comprehensive audit which resulted in the discovery of a second issue, promptly disclosed to ARB, involving a noncompliant fuel system component. “Companies must demonstrate that manufactured engine products will not result in excess emissions to our air,” said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. “In order to protect public health, all engine equipment must be evaluated by ARB and determined to be legal before being offered for sale in California.” Although the actions by the company were unintentional, 12,500 small off-road uncertified engines were sold in California in violation of the California laws that prohibit the manufacture and distribution of engines that do not comply with the state’s clean air laws. Of the full amount collected under the settlement, $326,250 will be paid to the California Air Pollution Control Fund, which supports efforts to decrease air pollution through education and the adoption of cleaner technologies. The remaining $108,750 of the settlement will be directed to the Foundation for California Community Colleges Supplemental Environmental Project to enhance and improve small engine maintenance/repair courses, with corresponding emission reduction benefit and emission education, conducted at nine California community college campuses. In addition to the voluntary self-disclosures, MTD Southwest took immediate corrective action with shipment holds, sales holds, inventory buybacks and future certification revisions. The company fully cooperated with ARB in the investigation and resolution of this matter, including all communication, disclosure and remediation. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 2 Feb 2015 13:45:43 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Magnesium casters successfully retool for a cleaner future From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1AkKaUZ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 2, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-07 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov Magnesium casters successfully retool for a cleaner future Two firms develop climate-friendly process in response to regulation Sacramento—Two California magnesium casting foundries have eliminated their use of a very potent greenhouse gas with 24,000 times the global warming potential of carbon dioxide (CO2). Consolidated Precision Products Corp of Pomona and Azusa, and Magnesium Alloy Products Company of Compton, which employ about 400 Californians, worked closely with the Air Resources Board (ARB) to eliminate the use of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) in their casting processes as required by a state regulation. “This is an excellent example of collaboration between government and industry to identify and use robust alternatives that meet manufacturing specifications while eliminating the use of a highly potent greenhouse gas,” stated Richard Corey, ARB’s Executive Officer. The companies faced difficulties complying with the regulatory deadline because of the stringent requirements associated with altering the casting process used in the production of flight critical components for aircraft. Because of this extensive procedure, the companies requested a two-year exemption from compliance and this was granted after a full ARB review with assistance from the California Metals Coalition (CMC), which represents the metalworking industry in California. Decades ago, the companies replaced sulfur dioxide (SO2) with SF6 as a cover gas to prevent corrosion during the magnesium casting process. Molten magnesium will oxidize (burn) on contact with ambient air. Working closely with the CMC and the companies, ARB commissioned a study with Cal Poly Pomona in 2009, led by Dr. Victor Okhuysen, to evaluate acceptable alternatives to SF6 in the foundry casting process. The CMC helped facilitate the testing and worked as an intermediary between the foundries and the principal investigator. During this time, Consolidated Precision Products Corp and Magnesium Alloy Products Company made a considerable investment in effort, time and money in changing to an alternative cover with significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. Going forward, both California magnesium foundries will now use flux, which is a granular cover material, to protect the molten magnesium during melting and ladle transfer. A trace amount of HFC-134a, a common and widely available refrigerant with a much lower global warming potential, will be used to purge the empty cavity of the mold. The result is the removal of the equivalent of 35,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide and retention of 400 well-paying, specialized jobs. Consolidated Precision Products Corp and Magnesium Alloy Products Company represent a small, but important niche in California’s metalworking industry. All parties’ willingness to collaborate in finding a greener production process provides an alternative to SF6 with proven use in commercial production for other magnesium casters around the country. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 10 Feb 2015 14:13:59 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Premier Performance fined $500,000 for offering illegal aftermarket parts for sale in California From: aleaks@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1AhUyvU -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 10, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-08 CONTACT: John Swanton (916) 322-2990 john.swanton@arb.ca.gov Premier Performance fined $500,000 for offering illegal aftermarket parts for sale in California $129,000 to fund clean school bus and diesel engine emission reduction projects SACRAMENTO- The California Air Resources Board today announced that Premier Performance LLC of Rexburg, Idaho, has agreed to a settlement totaling $515,000 to resolve violations of the California Health and Safety Code related to the sales of illegal aftermarket performance parts in California. Air Resources Board investigators discovered that Premier, a large warehouse distributor of aftermarket and performance automotive parts, sold modifications for pollution controlled vehicles that had not been approved for use by the ARB, in violation of California’s anti-tampering laws. California law prohibits the marketing or sales of parts that modify emissions control systems of vehicles unless they undergo a formal evaluation of their impact on the emissions control capabilities of the vehicles they were intended for. “Maintaining the integrity of the emissions control systems of vehicles is an important part of California’s clean air efforts,” said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. “We take seriously the obligation to show that products do not reduce the effectiveness of emissions controls prior to their sale in California.” California’s emission control system anti-tampering laws include provisions to allow manufacturers to sell aftermarket performance parts once those parts undergo a comprehensive engineering evaluation that ensures that the modifications do not cause excess emissions. Parts successfully completing this process receive an Executive Order exemption that allows their sale and installation on pollution controlled vehicles. Premier cooperated with the ARB investigation and promptly halted sales of non-compliant parts in California. The penalty of $386,000 will be paid to the California Air Pollution Control Fund, which supports efforts to decrease air pollution through education and the adoption of cleaner technologies. The remaining $129,000 will go to the Statewide School Bus and Diesel Emission Reduction Supplemental Environmental Project administered by the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. The project is designed to retrofit or replace old, dirty diesel school buses operating in California. Modified vehicles that no longer meet California's emission control requirements pose a significant health threat to California residents. They create higher amounts of smog-forming pollutants, which can then exacerbate respiratory ailments and negatively affect other health conditions such as shortness of breath, headaches, birth defects, cancer or damage to internal organs. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 12 Feb 2015 11:35:40 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- ARB fines manufacturer of cleaning wipes $400,000 for air quality violations From: aleaks@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/17nW0BC -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 12, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-09 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov ARB fines manufacturer of cleaning wipes $400,000 for air quality violations More than 33 tons of excess air pollution emitted SACRAMENTO - The California Air Resources Board has fined Apothecary Products Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of consumer health care products and pharmacy supplies, $400,000 for selling general-purpose cleaning products that violated California’s air quality regulations. An ARB investigation revealed that for more than three years Naples, Fla.-based Apothecary Products sold, supplied and offered for sale in California more than 20 different brands and types of optical glass cleaning products that exceeded a volatile organic compound content limit of 0.5 percent for general purpose cleaners. While each product was labeled for use as an optical cleaner – which carries no VOC limit -- additional cleaning claims made on the product labels placed them into the general-purpose cleaning category which is subject to a 0.5 percent VOC content limit. VOCs are regulated by the ARB because they react with other pollutants under sunlight to form ground-level ozone, a main ingredient in smog. In this case, it is estimated that more than 33 tons of excess VOCs were emitted as a result of sales to consumers. “ARB is constantly working to ensure that products sold to consumers in California meet the standards for smog-causing chemicals,” ARB Enforcement Chief Jim Ryden said. “Companies need to understand that regulations for these chemicals in consumer products are in place to prevent air pollution and protect public health.” Apothecary Products sold, supplied and offered for sale products in violation of California air quality regulations under a variety of brand names, such as Flents Wipe ’n Clear Biodegradable Lens Wipe and Wipe ’n Clear Pre-Moistened Lens Wipes. The case was settled late last year for $400,000, with an additional $25,000 payment to be suspended for 12 months pending an effort to reformulate the product. Apothecary has relabeled the products to indicate they are only to be used to clean optical glass, a use exempted from VOC limits. The additional payment would be triggered if the company is unsuccessful at reformulating the product so it complies with the VOC limit for general-purpose cleaners. Apothecary also agreed not to sell, supply or offer for sale for use in California any consumer product in violation of ARB air quality regulations. All fines are paid to the California Air Pollution Control Fund, which provides funding for projects and research to improve California’s air quality. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 20 Feb 2015 12:41:19 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board considers improved clean fuels regulation From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1EyEt46 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 20, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-10 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board considers improved clean fuels regulation Regulation sends a clear signal to industry encouraging innovation and investment in low carbon fuels Sacramento—The Air Resources Board yesterday held the first of two public hearings to consider re-adoption of California’s groundbreaking Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS). The LCFS is a greenhouse gas emission reduction regulation designed to help achieve the AB 32 goal of reducing California’s carbon dioxide emissions back to 1990 levels by 2020. The proposal strengthens the LCFS regulation adopted in 2009, and is the product of a year-and-a-half long public process. It still requires the carbon intensity of transportation fuels be reduced 10 percent by 2020. But it contains new provisions designed to foster investments in the production of fuels with lower carbon intensity, offer additional flexibility to regulated parties and streamline program operations. A number of businesses that produce innovative low carbon fuels testified in support of the proposal. “The LCFS continues to play a critical role in California’s transition to cleaner fuels,” said Air Resources Board Executive Officer Richard Corey. “It is fostering investments that benefit California, help to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases as well as toxic pollutants, and provides consumers with more clean fuel choices.” The Board is scheduled to vote on re-adoption of the regulation later this year after Air Resources Board staff finishes revisions to the proposal. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 25 Feb 2015 12:04:22 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- California and Quebec release results for second joint cap-and-trade auction From: aleaks@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1ER3ms5 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 25, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-12 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov California and Quebec release results for second joint cap-and-trade auction Sacramento—Today at noon (PST), California and Quebec released the results of the February 18, 2015 joint cap-and-trade auction of carbon allowances. The final numbers include sales figures and settlement prices for 2015 and 2018 vintages. 2015 Vintage Number offered: 73,610,528 Number sold: 73,610,528 Settlement Price: $12.21 2018 Vintage Number offered: 10,431,500 Number sold: 10,431,500 Settlement Price: $12.10 For more detailed results on the auction, including maximum and minimum bids placed, please go to: www.arb.ca.gov/auction California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 12 Mar 2015 13:01:27 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board Chairman Nichols expresses support for Oregon Governor's action on Clean Fuels Bill From: lbuckley@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1Mvl6f9 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 12, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-13 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dclegern@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board Chairman Nichols expresses support for Oregon Governor’s action on Clean Fuels Bill Approval provides a further example of growing sub-national climate action Sacramento — Air Resources Board Chairman Mary D. Nichols today issued the following statement of support for Governor Kate Brown’s signing of Oregon’s Clean Fuels Bill: “Governor Brown has demonstrated the courage to move forward and the commitment for one more sub-national government to take the lead in the fight to curb climate change. Her action provides a solid reminder that no individual jurisdiction must face this battle alone – and that only by working together can we make a difference far beyond the limitations of any single government.” California’s Low Carbon Fuel standard (LCFS) has been in effect since 2010. It is one of several greenhouse gas emission reduction measures developed under the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32). It requires a 10 percent reduction by 2020 in the carbon intensity of transportation fuels sold in California. California, Oregon, Washington and British Columbia formed the Pacific Coast Collaborative (PCC) to help coordinate regional efforts to battle climate change. The PCC’s role includes the harmonization of West Coast climate efforts and encouraging further efforts by sub-national jurisdictions to curb the impacts of climate change. Follow Chairman Nichols on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MaryNicholsCA California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 13 Mar 2015 10:53:54 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB fines Progress Rail $390K for violating cargo handling equipment air-quality rules From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1EhJkY8 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 13, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-14 CONTACT: Karen Caesar (916) 322-2990 karen.caesar@arb.ca.gov ARB fines Progress Rail $390K for violating cargo handling equipment air-quality rules $98,000 to help retrofit school buses with diesel engine filters SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board has fined one of the largest providers of rail and transit products and services in North America, Progress Rail, $390,733 for failing to meet compliance deadlines for cleaning up cargo handling equipment and to submit required annual reports. The company was in violation at four of its California locations: ports and/or intermodal rail yards in Oakland, San Bernardino, San Diego and Terminal Island (Los Angeles). Since ARB first issued a Notice of Violation to Progress Rail in March, 2013, the company, with corporate headquarters in Alabama, has replaced, retired or retrofit all equipment in question and is now fully compliant with California’s Cargo Handling Equipment Regulation. “Mobile cargo handling equipment is powered by diesel-fueled engines that emit toxic particulate matter, which, if not controlled, can cause health problems,” said ARB Enforcement Chief Jim Ryden. “We are pleased that Progress Rail took our concerns very seriously and worked quickly to correct its problems.” Prior to settling with ARB, the company spent $1.3 million to ensure its fleet was in compliance and implemented a corrective action plan to address future compliance. Progress Rail also re-established internal controls to help prevent similar problems from reoccurring. As outlined in its settlement agreement, Progress Rail, a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar, will pay $293,050 to the Air Pollution Control Fund to support air quality research, and $97,683 to a supplemental environmental project to help retrofit school buses with diesel filters. 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 health problems. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 27 Mar 2015 14:11:43 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- MTU America Inc. fined $1.5 million for selling illegal engines From: aleaks@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1BAiKXd -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 27, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-15 CONTACT: Karen Caesar (916) 322-2990 karen.caesar@arb.ca.gov MTU America Inc. fined $1.5 million for selling illegal engines ARB will receive $300K for air pollution research and school bus upgrades SACRAMENTO – The Air Resources Board, US Department of Justice and US Environmental Protection Agency joined forces to prosecute MTU America Inc. for selling uncertified large engines used in mining operations, resulting in a $1.5 million settlement which includes $300K to ARB to be used to fund school bus upgrades and air quality research. “The Air Resources Board’s primary mission is to protect public health and that means ensuring that equipment sold in California meets our stringent emissions standards,” said ARB Enforcement Chief Jim Ryden. “Under terms of this settlement, MTU agrees to meet all applicable ARB requirements prior to selling these engines in California.” In November 2008, Michigan-based MTU reported to ARB and US EPA irregularities that occurred during durability testing on specific engine varieties. For more information on the case, see MTU America Inc., Agrees to Conduct Proper Testing to Ensure Engines Meet Air Pollution Standards: http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/0/B9505C78DCFC29F485257E12005E0550 As outlined in its settlement agreement, MTU, formerly known as Tognum America Inc., and a wholly owned subsidiary of Rolls Royce Power Systems AG, will pay $225,000 to the Air Pollution Control Fund to support air quality research, and $75,000 to the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District to help fund the retrofit of diesel-powered school buses with particulate filters. 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 health problems. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Apr 2015 11:27:20 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- New study emphasizes importance of reducing traffic emissions to protect children living near roadways From: lbuckley@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1GEic7Y -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 6, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-16 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov New study emphasizes importance of reducing traffic emissions to protect children living near roadways Stronger associations of asthma with air pollutants were found among children living near high traffic SACRAMENTO – New research supports a growing body of scientific literature indicating that sensitive populations, including children, certain ethnic groups and people of lower socioeconomic status, are more vulnerable to the effects of high exposures to traffic-related air pollution. The University of California Irvine study, which examined the effect of chronic exposure in asthmatic children living in homes near traffic pollution, was led by Ralph J. Delfino, M.D., Ph.D, at the Department of Epidemiology. The study was funded by the Air Resources Board and benefited from funding by the South Coast Air Quality Management District. Overall, acute worsening of asthma was associated with short-term elevations of air pollution, particularly in asthmatic children living near high traffic roadways. It is the first study to show increased sensitivity to daily air pollution exposures in asthmatic children living in homes in areas with higher levels of air pollution from traffic, compared to asthmatic children exposed to lower levels of traffic-related pollution. While numerous studies have linked fine particulate pollution (known as PM2.5) exposures to respiratory illnesses, including asthma, there is a lack of information about the health effects of exposure to particulate pollution from different sources. Assessing the health impacts from exposure to fine particle pollution from a variety of important sources could help ARB to better target sources of PM2.5 for future control measures. Researchers will discuss their findings during an ARB-hosted research seminar and webcast open to the public at 1:30 p.m. (PDT) April 7. For more information, visit: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/seminars/delfino3/delfino.htm. The webinar will be archived on ARB’s website. The Irvine study looked at possible relationships between worsening asthma – specifically increased asthma-related emergency room visits and hospital admissions – and exposure to PM2.5, including primary (combustion emissions) and secondary (photochemically produced) components of PM2.5, traffic pollution, and ambient pollutant gases in asthmatic children in Orange County. Research data included 11,390 emergency room visits and hospital admissions made by 7,954 children ages 0 to 18 between 2000 and 2008. Key findings included: *Associations of asthma with ambient pollution, including carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen and PM2.5, were stronger among children exposed to high traffic-related air pollution at their homes, suggesting this is a vulnerable population. *Hospital encounters for asthma were linked to PM2.5 and ozone in warm months, and with PM2.5, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and oxides of nitrogen in the cool season. *Hispanic and African American children, as well as those without private insurance, tended to live in areas associated with higher levels of traffic-related air pollution, further increasing their vulnerability. Results of the study, “Risk of Pediatric Asthma Morbidity from Multi-Pollution Exposures,” provide additional evidence to support ARB’s regulations to reduce traffic-related air pollution. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 13 Apr 2015 12:34:28 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- 10.7 Million Households to Receive $27 Average Credit in April/May Electric Bill from State's Program to Fight Climate Change From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1O7eBzT -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 13, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-18 CONTACT: Stanley Young, ARB (916) 322-2990 stanley.young@arb.ca.gov Terrie Prosper, CPUC (415) 703-1366 news@cpuc.ca.gov 10.7 Million Households to Receive $27 Average Credit in April/May Electric Bill from State's Program to Fight Climate Change SAN FRANCISCo - The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and California Air Resources Board are reminding consumers that in April and May approximately 10.7 million California households will see a credit averaging $27 on their electricity bills thanks to the State’s Cap-and-Trade Program to fight climate change. This is the third time consumers will receive the Climate Credit, as they also received it in April and October 2014, resulting in an overall total credit to date of $736 million to California households in 2014. A forecasted $577 million will be credited to households in 2015. Said CPUC President Michael Picker, “The state and its consumers are working together to fight climate change. The Climate Credit returns money to consumers, and it is my hope that consumers will use the money to invest in simple tools that will help lower their electricity bills.” Households and small businesses do not need to do anything to get the credit. Households receive the Climate Credit on their October or November and April or May bills each year, regardless of energy consumption or bill amount. Approximately one million small businesses receive the Climate Credit every month as a credit related to the amount of electricity used. Those customers include commercial, industrial, and agricultural customers, as well as nonprofits and schools that typically use less than 20 kilowatts of electricity each month. “The California Climate Credit is all about putting money back into the pocketbooks and bank accounts of millions of California households and small businesses,” said Chairman of the California Air Resources Board Mary D. Nichols. “This is an opportunity for them to use it to save water, energy, and money – and fight climate change, too.” The Climate Credit is one of many beneficial programs developed as a result of landmark legislation called the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Assembly Bill 32), which puts California at the forefront of efforts to battle climate change by requiring that greenhouse gas emissions be reduced to 1990 levels by 2020. Customers of the state’s investor-owned utilities receive the Climate Credit that is designed to help California fight climate change and clean the air. The credit comes from payments by power plants and industries that, under California’s climate program, purchase permits when they put carbon pollution into the air. The credit is calculated according to rules established by the CPUC. Consumers can find more information about the Climate Credit by visiting the Energy Upgrade California website (www.EnergyUpgradeCA.org/climatecredit), which also provides ways to take action to save energy (like installing efficient LEDs, smart multi-plug-strips, or a smart thermostat), conserve natural resources, and make informed energy management choices at home and at work. Energy Upgrade California is the State’s initiative to educate residents and small business consumers about energy management. The dollar amount being returned per utility to approximately 10.7 million households total in April/May is as follows: • Pacific Gas and Electric Company: $24.76 • Southern California Edison: $29 • San Diego Gas & Electric: $36.24 • Pacific Power: $141.03 • Liberty Utilities: $35.01 For more information on the CPUC, please visit www.cpuc.ca.gov. For more information on the ARB, please visit www.arb.ca.gov. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Apr 2015 14:36:40 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB joins feds, ports and air districts to beef up enforcement of clean diesel regulations From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1zRDhGa Versión en español disponible en: http://bit.ly/1bmzPxa -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 23, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-19 CONTACT: Franceska Ramos (916) 322-2990 franceska.ramos@arb.ca.gov ARB joins feds, ports and air districts to beef up enforcement of clean diesel regulations SACRAMENTO - The California Air Resources Board (ARB) has teamed up with local and federal agencies to significantly increase enforcement of California’s Heavy-Duty Diesel regulations statewide. These partnerships leverage ARB’s ability to bring vehicles that are operating illegally into compliance and level the playing field for those that have already met requirements. ARB currently has extended agreements with various local air districts and ports to enforce its diesel-related regulations. Through these partnerships, air districts can write citations for non-compliant vehicles and equipment subject to various diesel regulations, helping support extensive enforcement of the truck and bus regulation. ARB also recently developed an agreement with the United States Environmental Protection Agency for enforcement of rules for drayage trucks and aftermarket parts. Although partnering districts typically refer violations to ARB for settlement, the district can also issue a citation immediately without waiting for inspectors from ARB to respond. This is particularly useful when the district receives a complaint from a member of the public who has observed a violation. “Giving districts the ability to write citations on the spot, whether it’s based on a tip or during a routine inspection, really helps us identify violators and get them into compliance right away,” said Paul E. Jacobs, Enforcement Branch Chief at the Air Resources Board. “We can’t be everywhere at once, so by empowering local agencies, heavy-duty diesel rules that protect public health can be enforced more effectively.” 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 health problems. The U.S. EPA also works with ARB to enforce its Truck and Bus and Drayage Truck regulations under authority of the federal Clean Air Act. In addition to conducting their own investigations and audits, U.S. EPA also assists ARB in joint investigations and audits to help enforce the rules and create a level playing field for all trucks that operate in California. In turn, ARB works closely with U.S. EPA to ensure consistent enforcement. U.S. EPA also works closely on cases involving illegal aftermarket parts used by diesel powered vehicle owners to gain horsepower. These parts significantly increase emissions and can lead to engine damage and manufacturers’ warranties being voided. While local and federal enforcement partnerships help leverage ARB’s compliance efforts, ARB’s enforcement teams continue to keep the pressure on throughout the state. This involves a variety of enforcement efforts including multi-agency strike forces, roadside inspections with California Highway Patrol, joint inspections with authorities at selected ports, and random inspections at truck stops and rest areas. ARB conducts investigations and fleet audits based on tips from the public, from air districts, and from compliant fleets reporting non-compliant competitors to ARB’s Complaint Hotline (1-800-END-SMOG). Citations issued by ARB can result in substantial penalties. Monies collected go to the State Treasurer for deposit into the California Air Pollution Control Fund which provides funding for projects and research to improve California's air quality. In some cases, companies can also place up to 25 percent of the total penalties into a Supplemental Environmental Project. This could fund, for example, the clean-up of school buses through adding diesel particulate filter retrofits, new engines or new buses. Monies used for school bus retrofits are administered by the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association and are distributed statewide with priority given to small districts with the greatest financial need. Supplemental Environmental Projects also help fund emissions compliance education classes at participating community colleges administered by the California Council for Diesel Education and Technology program. http://www.arb.ca.gov/enf/hdvip/ccdet/ccdet.htm . For information about how to stay in compliance with ARB’s heavy-duty diesel regulations, visit ARB’s TruckStop website at www.arb.ca.gov/truckstop . To contact ARB’s Complaint Hotline call: 1-800-END-SMOG. (1-800-363-7664). California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Apr 2015 10:23:27 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board Chairman lauds Governor Brown's action on 2030 greenhouse gas reduction target From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1zdOuG2 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 29, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-21 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board Chairman lauds Governor Brown’s action on 2030 greenhouse gas reduction target Sacramento—Air Resources Board Chairman Mary D. Nichols released the following statement on Governor Jerry Brown’s announced 2030 target for an additional 40 percent reduction in California’s greenhouse gas emissions: “With this bold action by the Governor California extends its leadership role and joins the community of states and nations that are committed to slash carbon pollution through 2030 and beyond. Building on our existing climate programs, the 40 percent reduction will drive and accelerate innovation, generate new jobs, improve air quality and hasten California's transition to a clean energy economy." The 2030 target represents reductions needed to ensure California can achieve its larger 2050 target of a reduction of greenhouse gases 80 percent below 1990 levels. The need for these reductions is supported by the latest science on climate change. Greenhouse gases are the primary cause of manmade global warming. Global warming is already having dramatic impacts in California in the form of reduced snowpack, more intense drought, increased wildfire intensity and sea level rise. The Governor’s announcement can be found here: http://gov.ca.gov/home.php Frequently asked questions and answers on the 2030 Carbon Target and Climate Adaption can be found here: http://bit.ly/1InJQas California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 1 May 2015 16:18:06 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- MEDIA ADVISORY: See the zero emission vehicles leading the way to California's 2020 and 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction targets From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1DQgXOT -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 1, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-22 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov MEDIA ADVISORY: See the zero emission vehicles leading the way to California’s 2020 and 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction targets SACRAMENTO - A variety of commercial and personal zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) will be on display around the CalEPA building for the third Governor’s Office ZEV Summit. Among the vehicles on display will be the hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Tucson. Other vehicles include the new BMW i3, fully electric-school buses and locally manufactured delivery trucks. What: Governor’s Office Summit on Zero Emission Vehicles Where: CalEPA building, 1001 I Street (10th & I), Sacramento When: 9 AM-4:00 PM, Monday, May 04, 2015 Who: This event is arranged on behalf of the Governor’s Office, and brings together representatives of government, non-governmental organizations and industry. It will highlight progress on the Governor’s 2013 ZEV Action Plan, and provide a chance to discuss the 2015 Action Plan. VISUALS: Latest zero-emission technology cars and trucks to help California meet the Governor’s aggressive climate goals for 2030 and beyond. About the Governor’s Office ZEV Summit: The summit is an invitation-only forum to discuss the state of zero emission technology and the ZEV market, and the actions needed to meet the goals of the Governor’s Executive Order B-16-2012. However, vehicle manufacturer representatives and administration officials will be available to discuss and describe the latest vehicle and infrastructure technology. Background Governor Brown has just taken the next step in directing the state’s efforts with Executive Order B-30-15 which calls for an additional 40 percent reduction in greenhouse gases below 1990 levels by 2030. Since transportation is the largest single contributor of greenhouse gases in the State (38% of the total), zero-emission vehicles will play a major role in further emission reductions. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 4 May 2015 08:15:22 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- MEDIA ADVISORY: See the zero emission vehicles leading the way to California's 2020 and 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction targets From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1DQgXOT -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 4, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-22 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov MEDIA ADVISORY: See the zero emission vehicles leading the way to California’s 2020 and 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction targets SACRAMENTO - A variety of commercial and personal zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) will be on display around the CalEPA building for the third Governor’s Office ZEV Summit. Among the vehicles on display will be the hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Tucson. Other vehicles include the new BMW i3, fully electric-school buses and locally manufactured delivery trucks. What: Governor’s Office Summit on Zero Emission Vehicles Where: CalEPA building, 1001 I Street (10th & I), Sacramento When: 9 AM-4:00 PM, Monday, May 04, 2015 Who: This event is arranged on behalf of the Governor’s Office, and brings together representatives of government, non-governmental organizations and industry. It will highlight progress on the Governor’s 2013 ZEV Action Plan, and provide a chance to discuss the 2015 Action Plan. VISUALS: Latest zero-emission technology cars and trucks to help California meet the Governor’s aggressive climate goals for 2030 and beyond. About the Governor’s Office ZEV Summit: The summit is an invitation-only forum to discuss the state of zero emission technology and the ZEV market, and the actions needed to meet the goals of the Governor’s Executive Order B-16-2012. However, vehicle manufacturer representatives and administration officials will be available to discuss and describe the latest vehicle and infrastructure technology. Background Governor Brown has just taken the next step in directing the state’s efforts with Executive Order B-30-15 which calls for an additional 40 percent reduction in greenhouse gases below 1990 levels by 2030. Since transportation is the largest single contributor of greenhouse gases in the State (38% of the total), zero-emission vehicles will play a major role in further emission reductions. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 6 May 2015 15:00:06 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- State of California donates air pollution monitoring equipment to Mexico's Baja California From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1zCzvW9 Versión en español disponible en: http://bit.ly/1EY1pg3 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 6, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-23 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov State of California donates air pollution monitoring equipment to Mexico’s Baja California SACRAMENTO – The California Environmental Protection Agency is donating surplus air monitoring equipment to the Environmental Protection Agency of Baja California to help bolster its air monitoring network along the border. Particulate matter samplers and other air monitoring equipment to be donated next week will help support existing monitoring stations throughout Baja. Better air monitoring helps governments on both sides of the international border to better understand the air quality picture in that region. Last July Governor Jerry Brown and Mexican environment officials signed an agreement to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. One area of particular focus in the memorandum of understanding is air quality, calling for increased monitoring and specialized equipment in exchange for technical information on air quality. The California Air Resources Board is set to deliver the equipment May 12 in El Centro, Calif., where Baja will take delivery. The surplus equipment was once used by ARB, which has an extensive air quality monitoring program, collecting accurate real-time measurements of ambient level pollutants at more than 40 sites throughout California. Equipment being donated includes a handful of particulate matter monitors and supporting equipment, including instruments that perform checks on gaseous analyzers to ensure proper performance (ozone, carbon monoxide and oxides of nitrogen); and data loggers that plot graphs to show air pollutant and temperature trends in a graphical format. In related news, ARB has been awarded a grant from the U.S. EPA to perform a monitoring study of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the city of Mexicali. This two-year study will begin in late 2015 and help inform future control strategies. PM2.5 comes from diesel exhaust and other sources and poses a health concern because the tiny particles can be inhaled and accumulate in the lungs. For more than a decade, the ARB has worked with the United Mexican States and the Free and Sovereign State of Baja to monitor ambient air in the Mexicali area, either by working on site or working indirectly through monitoring contracts. ARB also has provided assistance with laboratory analytical services, training and certification of calibration standards. Air quality data collected in Baja with ARB support is made available to the public through ARB’s air quality databases and helps inform air pollution control and policy decisions on both sides of the border. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 May 2015 15:17:14 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- NEWS RELEASE: Air Resources Board releases bold vision to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants From: jswanton@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/newsrelease.php?id=726 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 7th, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-25 CONTACT: Stanley Young (916) 322-2990 syoung@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board releases bold vision to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants New paper lays out concepts for limiting impact of potent heat-trapping gases SACRAMENTO—The Air Resources Board today released a concept paper describing ways in which California can move forward aggressively to reduce greenhouse gas and smog-causing emissions from a group of chemicals with extremely high global warming potential. These chemicals may be responsible for as much as 40 percent of the global warming to date. Short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) include methane, black carbon and fluorinated gases (refrigerants, insulating foam and aerosol propellants). These gases trap heat at many times the level of carbon dioxide, but also tend to have a shorter duration in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide, making their most dramatic climate impact over a period of days to about 10 years. “Reducing the emissions of these short-lived climate gases is an important part of California’s – and the world’s – efforts to keep the planet from exceeding the most dangerous levels of warming,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “Taking steps to significantly reduce these greenhouse gases now will deliver climate and air quality benefits in the short-term while we move our energy systems and vehicle fleets to clean technologies.” Strong planning and decisive actions on these climate pollutants will deliver reductions over the short-term and will play an important role in achieving the Governor’s goal of reducing greenhouse gases 40 percent by 2030. The concept paper identifies scientific targets that align with levels of reductions needed worldwide to stabilize the climate, including reducing methane emissions by at least 40 percent. Senate Bill 605 (Lara) requires ARB to develop, in coordination with other state agencies and local air districts, a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants. Today’s release of the concept paper marks the first step in developing that strategy. A public workshop will be held on May 27 to discuss the concept paper and overall strategy development. Working on a fast-track, ARB will develop an initial draft strategy through public workshops over the summer. The draft proposed strategy will be presented to the Board in the fall and will include specific actions over a broad array of economic sectors, including the natural environment and biological systems. Action to reduce emissions of these gases can also improve air quality and reduce related health risks, hospitalizations and medical expenses, especially in disadvantaged communities. Other benefits to California include reducing damage to forests and crops, reducing background ozone and particulate levels to help meet federal air quality standards, and reducing disruption of historic rainfall patterns. For black carbon, produced in California primarily from diesel combustion and burning wood (including wildfires), the concept paper suggests building on, accelerating and expanding existing programs including the ongoing sustainable freight strategy and forest management. Development of a regulation by ARB is already underway to reduce methane emissions from oil and gas drilling and storage sites. The concept paper addresses the need to act on other sources, including reducing methane emissions from dairies and eliminating the disposal of organic materials at landfills. The concept paper suggests an approach to consider new funding mechanisms and a range of incentive structures to address all sources. “Reducing methane and other short-lived climate pollutants is an increasingly essential part of achieving California’s goals of reducing the impacts of climate change; protecting our land, air, water and communities; and enabling California’s farming sector to thrive,” said Sustainable Conservation Executive Director Ashley Boren. “Sustainable Conservation looks forward to working with state agencies, our agricultural partners and other stakeholders in developing effective strategies and incentives that work for farmers, agricultural communities and the environment – and putting the state on the path to meeting its climate change and air quality goals.” As for so-called fluorinated gases, the paper looks to an 80 percent reduction by 2030 in the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in new refrigeration and air conditioning equipment, and taking early actions to significantly reduce these gases from commercial refrigeration. There is already an ARB program in place to address leaks from commercial systems. Development of this plan will align with efforts being made by Mexico, one of the State’s international partners in efforts to curb the impacts of climate change and fight air pollution. Mexico is the only country to specifically include SLCP emissions in its reduction pledge for the upcoming Paris climate summit. Under an agreement signed last year, California and Mexico are working together on a host of climate and air quality issues, including short-lived climate pollutants. Last December, California and Mexico co-hosted an event on short-lived climate pollutants at the international climate meetings in Lima, Peru. California already has some of the most stringent and effective regulations in the country for methane and black carbon. Our efforts to control emissions from diesel vehicles have reduced black carbon 90 percent since the 1960s, while diesel consumption has since tripled. These reductions help avoid about 5,000 premature deaths each year in the state, and if similar black carbon reduction levels were achieved globally, studies show it would avoid millions of premature deaths annually and slow the rate of global warming by about 15 percent. The Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Concept Paper can be found at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/shortlived/shortlived.htm California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 May 2015 13:02:59 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Randy's Trucking Inc. fined $524,000 for breaking air quality laws From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1Hd8JGW -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 11, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-26 CONTACT: Karen Caesar (916) 322-2990 karen.caesar@arb.ca.gov Randy’s Trucking Inc. fined $524,000 for breaking air quality laws Highest fine to date for Truck and Bus Regulation; $131,000 to fund clean school buses in San Joaquin Valley SACRAMENTO – Randy’s Trucking Inc. will pay $524, 675 to the Air Resources Board for violating a variety of air quality regulations. The case is the largest ever settled for failure to comply with California’s landmark Truck and Bus Regulation, which is helping to cut harmful diesel emissions throughout the state. “It’s vital for businesses to know that we can’t relax our standards or make exceptions when it comes to protecting public health,” said ARB Enforcement Chief Jim Ryden. “Fortunately fines this high are rare and company owners are being more proactive in making their diesel fleets compliant. Randy’s Trucking has been cooperative and is working towards full compliance on an approved schedule that reflects their commitment to upgrading their equipment.” The Bakersfield-based company will pay $392,755 to the Air Pollution Control fund to support air quality research, and $130,920 to the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District to clean up school bus fleets throughout the state. An investigation by the ARB showed that Randy’s Trucking failed to clean up its fleet according to the timetable set forth in the statewide Truck and Bus Regulation. The rule requires owners of diesel vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating greater than 26,000 lbs. meet specific compliance deadlines according to engine model year. Randy’s Trucking failed to meet these requirements for all its 1996 through 2006 model year heavy-duty vehicles. In addition, Randy’s did not properly self-inspect its diesel trucks to ensure that they met state smoke emission standards as required by state law. The company also failed to check that engines were properly labeled, or ensure their trucks met annual emissions compliance requirements. Randy’s Trucking has since agreed to pay its fine and will also follow all requirements of California’s Periodic Smoke Inspection Program, Emission Control Label Regulation, and the Statewide Truck and Bus Regulation. The company has also agreed to send fleet maintenance representatives to attend classes conducted by the California Council on Diesel Education and Technology, submit all relevant compliance records, and complete Low NOx software upgrades on all applicable heavy-duty diesel engines. 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 health problems. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 May 2015 13:50:23 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Doosan Infracore Company fined $647,500 for Certification Violations From: jswanton@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/newsrelease.php?id=728 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 14, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-27 CONTACT: John Swanton (916) 322-2990 jswanton@arb.ca.gov Doosan Infracore Company fined $647,500 for Certification Violations $161,875 to fund clean school bus technology SACRAMENTO- The California Air Resources Board today announced that Doosan Infracore Company Ltd. has agreed to a settlement totaling $647,500 to resolve violations of the California Health and Safety Code related to the modification of pollution controlled engines in California. This settlement is the result of a voluntary self-disclosure of field modifications made to emission-controlled 2010-2012 heavy-duty compressed natural gas engines. These modifications were implemented by Doosan field representatives, in response to customer operational issues on previously certified engines. The disclosure of these actions to the Air Resources Board was made immediately upon discovery by Doosan’s Engine Quality Assurance Group ensuring emission compliance. In announcing the settlement, ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden said, “We appreciate Doosan’s prompt actions to correct this mistake and ensure that steps taken to address customer concerns are not at the expense of the effectiveness of the emissions controls system.” California’s emission control system laws include provisions to allow manufacturers to develop service campaigns to address a wide range of operational and durability issues, however modifications must first be notified, undergo a comprehensive engineering evaluation, and approval must be given by ARB before modifications can be performed. Doosan cooperated fully with the ARB during the review and resolution of this issue. $485,625 of the penalty collected under the settlement will be paid to the California Air Pollution Control Fund, which supports efforts to decrease air pollution through education and the adoption of cleaner technologies. The remaining $161,875 was paid to help fund clean school bus and diesel engine emission reduction projects. Modified engines that no longer meet California's emission control requirements pose a significant health threat to California residents. They create higher amounts of smog-forming pollutants, which can then exacerbate respiratory ailments and negatively affect other health conditions such as shortness of breath, headaches, birth defects, cancer or damage to internal organs. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 May 2015 12:29:40 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board Chairman welcomes subnational memorandum of understanding From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1Lig9XV -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 19, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-28 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board Chairman welcomes subnational memorandum of understanding Document creates additional path forward for world climate change action in Paris this year PARIS--At a ceremony today at the U.S. Embassy in Paris Air Resources Board Chairman Mary D. Nichols issued the following statement in support of the Subnational Global Climate Leadership Memorandum of Understanding (Under 2 MOU) signed today by Governor Jerry Brown: "This agreement confirms and advances the crucial role that states, provinces and regions play in the international effort to slash greenhouse gases and stabilize the world's climate," said Chairman of the California Air Resources Board Mary D. Nichols. "This MOU binds together a network of jurisdictions from three continents to lead in the fight against climate change, demonstrating the type of international agreement we need to achieve later this year in Paris." Background The Under 2 MOU commits the signatory jurisdictions to work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from 80 to 95 percent by 2050 -- the level scientists now estimate is necessary to hold global warming to less than two degrees centigrade . Alternatively, signing jurisdictions can ensure that their citizens will reduce their individual greenhouse gas emissions to under two metric tons per year. Local and regional governments will be responsible for more than half the actions needed to achieve those goals. As a world leader in the fight against climate change California is already taking a variety of actions, starting with The Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32). Groundbreaking programs under that law and other programs in place now will reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the state back to 1990 levels by 2020 and provide models which may be adopted at a state, regional or national level. Governor Brown recently set the overall goal of reducing those emissions a further 40 percent by 2030 with the ultimate target of an 80 percent reduction by 2050 The following jurisdictions are confirmed to sign on to the MOU as founding signatories by May 19, 2015. 1. Acre, Brazil 2. Baden-Württemberg, Germany 3. Baja California, Mexico 4. British Columbia, Canada 5. California, USA 6. Catalonia, Spain 7. Jalisco, Mexico 8. Ontario, Canada 9. Oregon, USA 10. Wales, UK 11. Washington, USA These jurisdictions together represent more than 100 million people and a collective GDP of about $4 trillion a year, equal to the fourth largest economy on Earth. Follow Chairman Nichols on Twitter at https://twitter.com/MaryNicholsCA California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 27 May 2015 12:04:54 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- California helps low-income families afford the cleanest cars, saving them money on gas, cutting pollution, greenhouse gases From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1cZD2Uc -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 27, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-29 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov California helps low-income families afford the cleanest cars, saving them money on gas, cutting pollution, greenhouse gases Old, dirty cars scrapped; incentives provided for cleaner cars in California’s most polluted regions SACRAMENTO – In coordination with local air officials, the Air Resources Board is initiating a retire-and-replace pilot program in the Greater Los Angeles area and San Joaquin Valley to help people of low income replace old, polluting cars with cleaner, more fuel efficient vehicles that also cut greenhouse gas emissions. “What’s not to like about a program that cuts greenhouse gases, cleans the air and helps low-income families in the most polluted neighborhoods afford the cleanest, most fuel-efficient cars? And, as icing on the cake, it will put money in their wallets by slashing what they spend at the pump,” Air Resources Board Chairman Mary D. Nichols said. “Thanks to the leadership of Senate Pro Tem Kevin de León, the Plus-Up program is a smart investment in California’s hardest hit communities, and fulfills the promise that California’s efforts to fight climate change will benefit us all.” The air district-administered program provides incentives on a sliding scale, with larger cash payments for the lowest-income families moving up to the cleanest cars. The lowest-income recipient purchasing the very cleanest car receives the highest incentive amounts. Under the program, it is possible for a family that meets income guidelines to receive as much as $12,000 toward the purchase of an electric car. Consumers can choose to replace their vehicle with a more fuel efficient conventional gasoline-powered car, a conventional hybrid, a plug-in hybrid or an electric car. Eligible consumers will receive between $2,500 and $12,000, depending on their income and the type of replacement vehicle they choose. Income and residence The pilot program is available for three income levels -- those with a household income equal to or less than 225 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL), those between 226 and 300 percent of the FPL, or those between 301 and 400 percent of the FPL. Low-income consumers in either of the two participating regions who would like to replace their dirty vehicle with a more fuel efficient conventional vehicle, a conventional hybrid, a plug-in hybrid or an electric car would qualify to receive up to $4,500. Additional funding is available for low-income recipients who live in a ZIP code that contains a ‘disadvantaged’ census tract for the purchase of a conventional hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric replacement vehicle. (SB 535, introduced by State Senator Kevin de Leon, directs funds to provide economic and health benefits to the state’s disadvantaged communities -- those that are most impacted by both poverty and pollution.) Additional incentives Eligible consumers also may qualify for: • Up to $2,000 for a charging unit at your single residence or multi-unit dwelling for the purchase of battery electric cars; and • An additional $1,500 and $2,500, respectively, for the purchase or lease of a new plug-in hybrid or electric car from a separate program known as the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project. Money for transit Finally, residents who scrap an old, dirty car but choose not to replace it are eligible for public transit passes valued at between $2,500 and $4,500, depending on their income. ARB worked for more than a year with the South Coast Air Quality Management District and the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District in support of the development of the pilot projects. Each air district developed a program tailored to the individual needs of that district. The program (also known as the Enhanced Fleet Modernization Program and Plus-Up Pilot Project) is partially funded by proceeds from cap-and-trade revenue under the California Climate Investments Initiative and AB 118. Besides SB 535, another bill helping to drive the program is SB 1275, the Charge Ahead California Initiative, also introduced by Senator de Leon, which aims to ensure that low-income Californians, who are disproportionately impacted by air pollution, benefit from California’s transition to a clean transportation sector. Governor Jerry Brown issued an Executive Order in March 2012 calling for 1.5 million zero-emission vehicles on California roadways by 2025. And in January, Governor Brown made climate change and carbon pollution a core part of his agenda, calling for California to cut in half petroleum use from cars and trucks by 2030. For more information on the program, visit http://bit.ly/1FZBney for the fact sheet. For more details, contact the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District at (559) 230-6000 or the South Coast Air Quality Management District at (909) 396-2647. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 28 May 2015 12:09:14 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- California and Quebec release results for third joint cap-and-trade auction From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1HyzQXG -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 28, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-30 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov California and Quebec release results for third joint cap-and-trade auction SACRAMENTO — Today at noon (PST), California and Quebec released the results of the May 21, 2015 joint cap-and-trade auction of carbon allowances. The final numbers include sales figures and settlement prices for 2013, 2015 and 2018 vintages. 2013 Vintage Number offered: 1,946,676 Number sold: 1,946,676 Settlement Price: $12.29 2015 Vintage Number offered: 74,984,951 Number sold: 74,984,951 Settlement Price: $12.29 2018 Vintage Number offered: 10,431,500 Number sold: 9,812,000 Settlement Price: $12.10 For more detailed results on the auction, including maximum and minimum bids placed, please go to: www.arb.ca.gov/auction California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Jun 2015 15:53:49 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Study finds truck fleet clean-up dramatically decreases engine emissions near Port of Oakland From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1MGm2ya -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 15, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-31 CONTACT: Karen Caesar (916) 322-2990 karen.caesar@arb.ca.gov Study finds truck fleet clean-up dramatically decreases engine emissions near Port of Oakland Black carbon and oxides of nitrogen down 76 percent and 53 percent, respectively, in four years SACRAMENTO - A study funded by the California Air Resources Board demonstrates that mandatory upgrades to diesel truck fleets serving the Port of Oakland are responsible for significant reductions in two major air pollutants. According to research conducted by Berkeley scientist Robert Harley and based on data collected from thousands of trucks near the Port of Oakland, emissions of black carbon, a key component of diesel particulate matter and a pollutant linked to global warming, was slashed 76 percent from 2009 to 2013. Emissions of oxides of nitrogen, which leads to smog, declined 53 percent. Also during this period, the median age of truck engines declined from 11 to six years, and the percentage of trucks equipped with diesel particulate filters increased from 2 percent to 99 percent. Dr. Harley will elaborate on these results during an ARB-hosted research seminar and webcast open to the public at 1:30 pm (PDT) on Thursday, June 18. More information can be found here at this link http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/seminars/harley4/harley4.htm The webinar will be archived on ARB’s website. The study findings are considered dramatic because they occurred over a relatively short time. Comparable emissions reductions could normally take up to a decade through gradual replacement of old trucks or natural fleet turnover. In this case, the improvements are attributed to the ARB’s Drayage Truck Regulation and to the Comprehensive Truck Management Program at the Port of Oakland, which require vehicle owners serving the port to clean up their trucks by either replacing them with newer models or installing diesel particulate filters. Diesel trucks are one of California’s biggest sources of air pollution. Because they are so durable, they can operate for decades and emit significant amounts of diesel pollution unless they are retrofit with filters or replaced. Adopted in 2007, the ARB’s Drayage Truck Regulation requires all trucks serving major California ports and intermodal rail yards to be registered and upgraded according to a staggered implementation schedule. By Jan. 1, 2023, all class 7 and 8 diesel-fueled drayage trucks must have 2010 or newer engines. Currently, pre-2007 model year (MY) trucks cannot serve the ports. All 2007-2009 MY trucks are compliant through 2022. 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 health problems. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 19 Jun 2015 09:23:49 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- California Air Resources Board Chairman welcomes draft federal greenhouse gas rules for trucks and trailers From: jswanton@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board:. http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/newsrelease.php?id=733 ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JUNE 19, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-32 CONTACT: Stanley Young (916) 322-2990 syoung@arb.ca.gov Sacramento—Air Resources Board Chairman Mary D. Nichols today said U.S. EPA and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) draft Phase II greenhouse gas regulations are a positive next step for controlling emissions from trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles. “These proposed heavy-duty standards will help the nation fight climate change while driving new technology and reducing costs for truckers and fleet managers,” said Air Resources Board Chairman Nichols. “We support this effort and will be working to ensure the final regulations help California meet our goals for 2030 and beyond .” As proposed, the draft federal rules would begin affecting manufacturers of trailers for combination tractor-trailer rigs with the 2018 model year. Engine and truck manufacturers would be required to deliver products meeting the Phase II requirements in 2021. The draft regulations would affect vehicles from heavy-duty pickups to large 18-wheel tractor-trailer trucks regardless of the type of fuel they use. California harmonized its heavy-duty vehicle program with the federal Phase 1 greenhouse gas standards in 2013. This will be the first time federal regulations have required large trailers to help achieve reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. California has had a GHG-reduction regulation in place for box-type trailers 53 feet and longer since 2010. The Air Resources Board will carefully review the draft federal Phase II regulations in light of AB 32’s mandate to return greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. Governor Brown recently announced a 2030 climate change target of a further 40 percent reduction, as well as a goal of cutting petroleum use 50% by 2030. For more details on DOT’s and EPA’s notice of proposed rulemaking, visit http://www.epa.gov/otaq/climate/regs-heavy-duty.htm and http://www.nhtsa.gov/fuel-economy California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Jun 2015 10:23:29 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- MEDIA ADVISORY: Winners of California's premier clean-air and climate award highlight global health, air issues and breakthrough solutions From: jswanton@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: . http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/newsrelease.php?id=734 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 23, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-33 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov MEDIA ADVISORY: Winners of California's premier clean-air and climate award highlight global health, air issues and breakthrough solutions SACRAMENTO- The California Air Resources Board this week is set to honor winners of the 2014 Haagen-Smit Clean Air Awards, California’s premier award recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to improving air quality. Events are planned for Wednesday and Thursday at the California Environmental Protection Agency headquarters building, Byron Sher Auditorium, 1001 I St., Sacramento. Learn about real-world air pollution problems and innovative solutions from three individuals who will be bestowed with California’s premier air quality award during three abbreviated talks on Wednesday. An award ceremony is planned for Thursday. Event Details: What: Clean Air Leadership Talks featuring a 20-minute talk by each of the three 2014 Haagen-Smit Award recipients. Talk subjects include: Cooking, Health & Climate: The Suprisingly Large Impacts of Humanity’s Oldest Daily Task (Donald Blake, professor of chemistry, University of California Irvine) Household Air Pollution & Impacts on Women and Children (Kirk R. Smith, professor of global environmental health, University of California Berkeley) Advances in Diesel Technologies & Worldwide Implementation (John Wall, vice president and chief technical officer for Cummins Inc.) When: 2:30 to 4 PM, Wednesday, June 24, 2015 Where: Cal/EPA headquarters, Byron Sher Auditorium, 1001 I St. (10th & I), Sacramento What: Haagen-Smit Awards Ceremony at the regular meeting of the California Air Resources Board When: Estimated to begin at 10:30 AM, Thursday, June 25, 2015 (depending on Board agenda). Where: Cal/EPA headquarters, Byron Sher Auditorium, 1001 I St. (10th & I), Sacramento Who: Chairman Mary D. Nichols will host the awards ceremony honoring three 2014 award recipients: Donald Blake, professor of chemistry, University of California Irvine; Kirk R. Smith, professor of global environmental health, University of California Berkeley; and John Wall, vice president and chief technical officer for Cummins Inc. VISUALS: Awards will be presented Thursday during the regulation Air Resources Board meeting. Photos and video will be available after the award ceremony. About the Haagen-Smit Clean Air Awards: The prestigious Haagen-Smit awards are given annually to those who have made outstanding contributions in the fields of clean air, climate change, technology and related policies. Considered to be California’s premiere air quality award, it is named for the late Dr. Arie Haagen-Smit, known as the “father” of air pollution science and control. The award recognizes those who have followed in his footsteps to advance efforts toward clean air goals. Background: The Haagen-Smit Clean Air Awards have been presented since 2001. Winners have ranged from research scientists to educators to public agency administrators. Awardees are selected by a committee of former winners. For a list of all past award winners, click here. http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/hsawards/winners/winners.htm California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Jun 2015 11:01:34 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Three receive Californias premier Haagen-Smit air quality award From: jswanton@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: . http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/newsrelease.php?id=735 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 25, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-34 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov Three receive California’s premier air quality award 2014 Haagen-Smit awards recognize outstanding air quality achievements in research, science and technology advancements SACRAMENTO- - The California Air Resources Board today honored recipients of the 2014 Haagen-Smit Clean Air Awards, California’s premier award recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to improving air quality. “These three individuals have championed public health with extraordinary contributions to air pollution science, research and technology,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “The Haagen-Smit Award is our way of honoring these individuals who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to protecting public health throughout their long and distinguished careers.” Haagen-Smit Clean Air Awards — the “Nobel Prize” in air quality achievement — are given annually to individuals who have made significant lifetime contributions toward improving air quality and climate change science, technology and policy, furthering the protection of public health. The 2014 Award Recipients: • Dr. Donald Blake, professor of chemistry, University of California Irvine Dr. Blake has carried out internationally acclaimed measurements of atmospheric volatile organic compounds that have provided critical insights into their roles in air pollution and climate change. His research has shown how elevated air pollution in some cities, such as Mexico City, can be attributed to propane use and cooking emissions rather than traffic pollution. • Dr. Kirk R. Smith, professor of global environmental health, University of California Berkeley Dr. Smith holds visiting professorships in India and China, where he works to bring clean air to all people, particularly those who suffer from high exposures to smoke from traditional cookstoves using biomass and coal fuels. His research was critical to the development of a global burden of disease estimate that 4 million people die prematurely from household fuel combustion each year and in helping trigger the first recognition of the importance of air pollution within health ministries. • Dr. John Wall, Vice President and Chief Technical Officer, diesel engine manufacturer Cummins Inc. Dr. Wall has played a leadership role in the development and implementation of all the major technology advancements ultimately leading to the near-zero levels of emissions of particulate matter and oxides of nitrogen from engines. He has consistently taken a proactive environmentally conscious position for the diesel industry throughout his career. In light of the global connection between air quality and climate change, the scope of the Haagen-Smit Clean Air Awards program is now international, with an added focus on climate change science and mitigation. California’s premier air quality award is named for the late Dr. Arie Haagen-Smit — known as the “father” of air pollution science and control. The award recognizes those who continue his legacy through perseverance, leadership and innovation in the areas of research, environmental policy, science and technology, public education and community service. Dr. Haagen-Smit’s breakthrough research, which became the foundation upon which today’s air pollution standards are based, concluded that most of California’s smog is the result of photochemistry — the reaction of sunlight with industrial and motor vehicle exhaust to create ozone. The selection committee is comprised of past award winners. To learn more about the Haagen-Smit award: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/hsawards/hsawards.htm For a list of all past Haagen-Smit award winners: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/hsawards/winners/winners.htm California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Jun 2015 15:05:31 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB approves funding plan for low-carbon, zero-emission vehicles, boosts funding for low-income pilot programs From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1FDuKYx -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 25, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-36 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov ARB approves funding plan for low-carbon, zero-emission vehicles, boosts funding for low-income pilot programs $373 million available to meet growing demand, accelerate advanced technologies SACRAMENTO - The California Air Resources Board today approved a $373 million funding plan that covers all investments in advanced technologies for fiscal year 2015-16, from zero-emission heavy-duty trucks and buses to rebates for low- and zero-emission passenger vehicles. The budget for the annual Funding Plan for Low Carbon Transportation Investments and the Air Quality Improvement Program is up by $150 million over last year's budget, and is subject to approval by the Legislature when it considers the proposed expenditure of Cap-and-Trade auction proceeds as part of the State Budget. “Action taken by the Board today to boost funding for clean vehicle programs is in direct response to growing demand, and the need to put more zero-emission vehicles on California’s roads and highways,” Air Resources Board Chairman Mary D. Nichols said. “This funding plan delivers clean air, less carbon pollution and provides financial incentives to allow all Californians to benefit from driving and owning the cleanest vehicles.” The investments are pivotal to meeting California’s ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, deploy zero-emission vehicles and reduce petroleum dependency by accelerating the development and deployment of advanced vehicle technologies. The bulk of the $373 million -- $350 million -- comes from the funds in the state’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund dedicated to low-carbon transportation investments and supports a variety of programs for a wide range of cars, trucks and off-road equipment. An additional $23 million comes from the Air Quality Improvement Program under AB 8. $200 million is for light-duty vehicles, including the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project, which provides incentives for the purchase of zero-emission vehicles. $167.5 million is dedicated to heavy-duty vehicle and freight-equipment projects, including vouchers to help support the purchase of hybrid and zero-emission trucks and buses. Among the heavy-duty vehicle investments are three new programs, including a trade-up pilot program to transition off-road agricultural equipment to cleaner technologies. (The remaining $5.5 million is held for administrative overhead and a reserve.) The Funding Plan builds on last year’s investments that benefit disadvantaged communities, including innovative pilot programs to help owners of older, dirty vehicles move up to much cleaner, newer cars including electric vehicles. Over all, the Funding Plan dedicates 50 percent of the low-carbon transportation funds to benefit disadvantaged communities. Of those dedicated funds, 10 percent is to be invested directly in those communities. Key Highlights of the Funding Plan: • $163 million for the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project, which offers up to $5,000 in vehicle rebates for the purchase or lease of new, eligible zero-emission and plug-in hybrid light-duty vehicles. This allocation is expected to meet demand projected for the upcoming year and includes an income eligibility cap to exclude high-income consumers and higher rebate levels for lower income consumers. • Increased Investments for Light-Duty Pilot Projects in disadvantaged communities including $20 million to expand air district administered retire-and-replace pilot programs that help low-income residents afford the cleanest cars. • $12 million for HVIP (Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project) to encourage commercial deployment of hybrid and zero-emission trucks and buses. • Expanded Investments in Large-Scale Commercialization Projects, including the addition of $20 million for pilot deployment of zero-emission trucks and $45 million for pilot deployment of zero-emission buses, to help these technologies become more cost competitive. This includes $5 million for school buses in rural school districts. • $59 million for advanced technology demonstration projects for larger vehicles, building on demonstrations funded with last year’s appropriation. • Continuation of the successful Truck Loan Assistance Program that provides credit to consumers upgrading their trucks. • Additional investments in both on- and off-road advanced technologies. The Funding Plan addresses two new statutory requirements: The first, SB 1275, authored by Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de León, established the Charge Ahead California Initiative with a goal of placing 1 million zero-emission and near-zero-emission vehicles in California by 2023, and increasing access to these vehicles by low-income consumers and consumers in disadvantaged communities. SB 1275 also required ARB to establish an income eligibility limit for its existing Clean Vehicle Rebate Project. SB 1204, authored by Senator Ricardo Lara, created the California Clean Truck, Bus and Off-Road Vehicle and Equipment Technology Program to fund the development, demonstration and early commercial deployment of zero- and near-zero-emission technologies with priority given to projects that benefit disadvantaged communities. Of the plan’s Low Carbon Transportation Investments, $148 million goes to support SB 1204 projects. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Jun 2015 16:07:13 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board approves rice cultivation carbon offset protocol, expands forestry offset protocol From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1dj0BqU -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 25, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-35 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board approves rice cultivation carbon offset protocol, expands forestry offset protocol Rice protocol offers agriculture another opportunity to benefit from cap-and-trade, reduce greenhouse gases SACRAMENTO — The Air Resources Board today approved a new carbon offset protocol that will allow rice farmers to receive credit for using best practices for rice cultivation. The Rice Offset Protocol joins five other offset protocols developed under California’s cap-and-trade program. “This protocol provides rice growers an opportunity to do something good for the environment as well as save water, and benefit financially from those efforts,” said Air Resources Board Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “The protocol is designed to be used not only in California but all rice-growing states, sharing the benefits with growers there while providing another cost-effective way for companies in the program to comply with cap-and-trade.” Carbon offsets come from greenhouse gas emission reductions in sectors that are not regulated by the cap-and-trade program. Under the protocol, growers who use approved methods for dry seeding, drainage practices, and handling rice straw receive credits based on avoided emissions of methane. The Cap-and-Trade Program evaluates methane as being 21 times more potent than carbon dioxide for trapping heat in the atmosphere. Each credit a grower receives is the equivalent of a metric ton of carbon dioxide. The grower can sell those credits to companies regulated by the cap-and-trade program. In California, growers can receive credit through practices such as dry seeding and early drainage of fields in preparation for harvest. These growing practices allow for continued use of flooded fields as winter bird habitat, but reduce the amount of rice straw left to decompose in the water. The rice protocol has been designed with additional region-specific practices to allow credit generation in other rice growing parts of the country. The Air Resources Board also approved amendments to the Forestry Offset Protocol which will allow development and crediting of projects in the state of Alaska that are not in National Forests. Previously the cap-and-trade regulation restricted offset development to the contiguous 48 states. The forestry protocol allows companies to purchase offsets generated through forest management that increases the amount of carbon stored in a specific project site above what would have been there without the prescribed management in place. The carbon offset protocols used by California and its cap-and-trade partner, Québec, are the most stringent in the world. All projects are subject to annual audits, performed by specially trained, accredited, third-party verifiers and Air Resources Board staff. Each project then undergoes a separate evaluation by Air Resources Board staff before any credits can be issued. You can find the Rice Offset Protocol and other offset protocols here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/capandtrade/offsets/offsets.htm California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Jun 2015 14:53:10 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- California greenhouse gas inventory shows state is on track to achieve 2020 AB 32 target From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1CHBwwF -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 30, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-37 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov California greenhouse gas inventory shows state is on track to achieve 2020 AB 32 target ‘Carbon intensity’ of economy continues to drop even as state GDP grows SACRAMENTO — The Air Resources Board today released the latest edition of the state’s Greenhouse Gas Emission Inventory, which shows that emissions fell by 1.5 million metric tons in 2013 compared with the previous year even while the economy grew at 2.0 percent, a rate greater than the national average. “This inventory provides convincing evidence that California can grow its economy and continue to fight climate change,” said Board Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “As we move toward an international climate agreement in Paris, California is showing the world how to throw off the shackles of fossil fuel dependency. No longer must economic growth result in smokestacks and pollution. California is on a sustainable trajectory towards a clean energy economy. ” California’s annual statewide greenhouse gas (GHG) emission inventory is an important tool for establishing historical emission trends and tracking California’s progress toward the goal set by the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32).The law set a target of reducing emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. After rising during the 2000s, the state’s overall greenhouse gas emissions fell in 2008 as a result of the recession. The decline leveled off from 2009 to 2011 and increased by 2 percent in 2012, due in part to the closure of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station and a drop in hydropower generation. The drop in hydropower has now been completely replaced by in-state wind and solar power. The 2013 inventory shows a decline of 1.5 million metric tons in emissions compared with 2012. Overall trends in the inventory also demonstrate that the carbon intensity of California’s economy, the amount of carbon pollution per million dollars of GDP, is declining. Carbon intensity has dropped 23 percent from the peak in 2001, and declined an average of 1.9 percent per year over the past four years as GDP grew 6.6 percent overall during the same period. This demonstrates a decoupling of economic growth and carbon pollution. Per capita emissions continued their decline. Over the 2000 to 2013 period, per capita GHG emissions in California dropped from a peak of 14.0 tons per person in 2001 to 12.0 tons per person in 2013, a 14 percent decrease overall. Emissions from most major economic sectors in California either declined or remained flat in 2013. Industrial emissions were about the same as in 2012, while the electric power sector showed a slight decrease from 2012. Emissions from the transportation sector rose by a single percentage point compared to 2012, but are still down 11 percent from the peak year of 2007. The main source of the rise in transportation emissions was the increased use of diesel by trucks. Transportation remains the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions at 37 percent of total emissions. The Air Resources Board is also tracking short-lived climate pollutants (methane, black carbon, fluorinated gases) and plans to release a strategic plan to reduce these pollutants later this year. These climate pollutants the potential to warm the atmosphere hundreds and even thousands of times more than CO2. California is now focusing more intensely on reducing these gases because of the relatively quick reduction in warming which can be achieved. To learn more about these programs, go to: http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/shortlived/shortlived.htm. The data in the inventory comes from a number of sources including California’s Mandatory Greenhouse Gas Reporting Regulation, the California Energy Commission, and the U.S. Energy Information Administration. California has developed an integrated set of programs to meet the greenhouse gas reduction goals of AB 32. The primary programs are the Renewable Portfolio Standard, the Advanced Clean Cars program, the Low Carbon Fuel Standard, and the Cap-and-Trade program. Reductions also result from numerous energy efficiency and conservation programs. To learn more about these programs, click here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/cc.htm Governor Edmund G. Brown, Jr. recently established a 2030 greenhouse gas reduction goal of 40 percent below 1990 levels, an interim target toward meeting the 2050 goal of reducing emissions 80 percent below 1990 levels. California has also joined with a growing list of states and provinces from around the world in a first-of-its-kind agreement (viewable at http://gov.ca.gov/news.php?id=18964 ) to limit global warming to less than 2 degrees Celsius. To date, 14 states have signed the so-called "Under 2 MOU," which provides a template for the world's nations to follow as work continues toward an international agreement at this year's United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris. You can find the California Greenhouse Gas Inventory and a related discussion of trends here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/inventory/inventory.htm California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Jul 2015 15:04:14 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board to hold symposium on Governor Browns call to reduce petroleum use up to 50 percent by 2030 From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1CZbqVS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 7, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-38 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board to hold symposium on Governor Brown’s call to reduce petroleum use up to 50 percent by 2030 Forum to discuss transportation “pillar” of state’s effort to curb climate change Sacramento—The Air Resources Board, California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA), and California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will hold a joint symposium tomorrow, July 8, 2015, to hear from experts on ways to transform California’s transportation system to achieve Governor Brown’s goal of reducing California’s use of petroleum by up to 50 percent by 2030. The forum is called “California’s 2030 climate commitments: Cutting Petroleum Use in Half by 2030”. This symposium is one of a series of public forums soliciting input on six key climate change strategy pillars that Governor Brown identified in his January 2015 inaugural address. It features several panels of experts to help guide the discussion. Six Climate Change Strategy Pillars The pillars recognize that major areas of the California economy will need to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to meet the recently announced mid-term target, which is an overall GHG reduction of 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 (Executive Order B-30-15) and 80 percent by 2050. The six pillars are: (1) Reducing today’s petroleum use by cars and trucks by up to 50 percent; (2) Increasing from one-third to 50 percent our electricity derived from renewable sources; (3) Doubling the efficiency savings achieved at existing buildings and making heating fuels cleaner; (4) Reducing the release of methane, black carbon, and other short lived climate pollutants; (5) Managing farm and rangelands, forests and wetlands so they can store carbon. (6) Adaptation and climate resiliency State agencies collaborate in public process and beyond Agencies participating in these forums on California’s greenhouse gas reduction efforts include the California Energy Commission, California State Transportation Agency, the California Public Utilities Commission, the California Independent System Operator and CalTrans. The input gathered at these forums will be used to inform the next update to the AB 32 Scoping Plan, which will chart the path toward reaching those 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction goals and the ultimate 2050 goal of 80 percent reductions below 1990 levels by 2050. Much research and analysis supports the feasibility and necessity of these targets to achieve California’s climate goals. State agencies are now collaborating to gather ideas through a month-long public process to determine how best to achieve those goals. The agencies will then continue to collaborate as they work out the details. Tomorrow’s symposium will run from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the CalEPA Building, 1001 I Street in Sacramento. The link to the formal Notice for tomorrow’s symposium can be found here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/pillars/transportation/notice2.pdf Other symposia in this series can be found here: Electricity sector: http://www.energy.ca.gov/calendar/index.php?eID=2412 Adaptation and resiliency: http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/PUC/energy/CPUC_and_Energy_Commission_to_Hold_Climate_Adaptation_Workshop.htm California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 13 Jul 2015 11:01:29 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Tesoro Corp. fined $1 million for violating Californias gasoline regulation From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1dWrSQq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 13, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-39 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov Tesoro Corp. fined $1 million for violating California’s gasoline regulation $253,500 to clean up old diesel school buses in California SACRAMENTO - The California Air Resources Board today announced that Tesoro Corp. has paid $1,014,000 in penalties for violations of California’s reformulated gasoline regulations. Tesoro supplied gasoline in violation of state regulations from two Tesoro refineries and one terminal for a period of 52 violation days. Tesoro is the second-largest independent refining and marketing company in the Western U.S. “ARB enforcement teams are working on a daily basis to enforce regulations adopted to protect public health,” ARB Enforcement Chief Todd Sax said. “Our investigation revealed that Tesoro was violating California’s fuel requirements, and this agreement helps ensure these types of violations will not occur in the future. We expect all companies that supply fuel in California to meet our fuel requirements that help protect Californians from lung-damaging ozone and airborne toxic chemicals that can cause cancer.” In all there were four separate violations by Tesoro. In three cases, Tesoro sold, offered for sale, supplied or offered for supply California gasoline which had either a sulfur content, aromatics content or olefin content exceeding specified limits. All three – sulfur and the two hydrocarbon compounds -- contribute to air pollution, and in each of these cases the violating fuel got into the marketplace. ARB inspectors discovered the three exceedances during a routine sampling inspection. Tesoro cited problems related to its laboratory and said that changes were made to its laboratory procedures to prevent similar violations in the future. In the fourth incident, at Kinder Morgan’s Concord Terminal, Tesoro incorrectly combined conventional gasoline and CARBOB, or the California Reformulated Gasoline Blendstock for Oxygenate Blending. CARBOB is the ‘blendstock’ form of gasoline before an oxygenate, such as ethanol, is added to it to make finished gasoline found at gas stations. Tesoro self-disclosed the violation, citing operator error. None of that fuel ever entered the marketplace. Tesoro fully cooperated with ARB in this matter and took diligent steps to comply, reduce the number of days of violation and prevent recurrence of similar situations. Of the approximately $1 million in penalties, $760,500 will go to the California Air Pollution Control Fund and $253,500 will go to fund the retrofit of California school buses with diesel particulate filters. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Jul 2015 12:16:36 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- K&N Engineering Inc. fined $521,000 for offering illegal aftermarket parts for sale in California From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1dWrSQq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 16, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-40 CONTACT: John Swanton (916) 322-2990 john.swanton@arb.ca.gov K&N Engineering Inc. fined $521,000 for offering illegal aftermarket parts for sale in California $130,000 to clean up school buses throughout California The California Air Resources Board today announced that K&N Engineering Inc. has agreed to a settlement totaling $521,000 to resolve violations of the California Health and Safety Code related to the advertising and sales of illegal aftermarket performance parts in California. Air Resources Board investigators discovered that K&N Engineering, based in Riverside, Calif., sold performance parts that had not received exemptions from California’s emissions control system anti-tampering laws. California law prohibits the advertising, sales or installation of parts that modify vehicle emissions control systems unless they are proven to not reduce their effectiveness. Manufacturers of aftermarket and performance parts must follow a process to receive an Executive Order exemption where they prove that the parts do not reduce the effectiveness of these systems. “The backbone of California’s clean air efforts is maintaining the integrity of emissions control systems on the millions of vehicles that travel our highways each day,” said ARB Enforcement Chief Todd Sax. “We treat seriously any manufacturer’s failure to show that their performance products do not harm the emissions reductions capabilities built into all newer cars.” This settlement covers the illegal marketing and sales of performance parts in California by K&N from mid-2010 to mid-2013. The settlement of $390,750 will be paid to the California Air Pollution Control Fund, which supports efforts to decrease air pollution through education and the adoption of cleaner technologies. The remaining $130,250 of the settlement will be directed to the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District, which administers a program to clean up school bus fleets throughout the state. Modified vehicles that no longer meet California's emission requirements pose a significant health threat to California residents. They create higher amounts of smog-forming pollutants, which can lead to increased respiratory and cardiovascular hospitalizations and premature deaths for adults. They can also lead to more emergency room visits for children with asthma. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 20 Jul 2015 14:49:41 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Impacts of light rail transit development: A Southern California case study From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1VmfR8O -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 20, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-41 CONTACT: Karen Caesar (916) 322-2990 karen.caesar@arb.ca.gov Impacts of light rail transit development: A Southern California case study SACRAMENTO – Researchers from University of California, Irvine, and the University of Southern California will present the results of a first-of-its-kind study examining the impacts of light rail development on driving behavior and active transportation such as walking or biking. The project was unique in that extensive surveying took place before and after the light rail line opened. The research provides valuable insights into programs promoting reduction of vehicle emissions and land-use policies related to SB 375, a law that supports more walkable, livable communities and improved transit options. WHEN: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 22 (NOTE: the seminar will also be webcast and archived; for viewing information, visit http://www.calepa.ca.gov/broadcast/ ) WHERE: Byron Sher Auditorium, CalEPA building, 1001 I Street (10th & I), Sacramento WHO: Douglas Houston, Ph.D., Planning, Policy, and Design; Urban and Regional Planning, University of California, Irvine; and Marlon Boarnet, Ph.D., Price School of Public Policy, University of Southern California. WHAT: The project analyzed the impact of the “Expo” light rail transit line which began service in South Los Angeles in 2012, on the travel and activity patterns of both long-term residents and those who moved to the area after service began. FINDINGS: Among the findings, researchers discovered that the amount of driving was reduced for long-term residents near the new Expo line. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 21 Jul 2015 10:34:31 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Cities are invited to cut carbon footprint in third statewide CoolCalifornia Challenge From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1KinIAY -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 21, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-42 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov Cities are invited to cut carbon footprint in third statewide CoolCalifornia Challenge Prize money offered to participating cities SACRAMENTO - Cities throughout California are invited to sign up now through Aug. 31 to participate in the statewide CoolCalifornia Challenge, a community-based competition to cut carbon emissions. The CoolCalifornia Challenge runs from Oct. 1, 2015, to March 30, 2016, the California Air Resources Board and Energy Upgrade California® announced today. The competition aims to enlist cities to engage households and community groups across the state to reduce household energy and water use, reduce transportation-related emissions, and create more vibrant and sustainable communities. Participants in each city log their actions to reduce greenhouse gases in an online carbon calculator, which determines how much carbon is decreased in each city. One winner will be crowned, and earn recognition as, the “Coolest California City” on Earth Day. “I encourage every city to sign up,” California Air Resources Board Chair Mary D. Nichols said. “The CoolCalifornia Challenge brings Californians from all walks of life together in a healthy competition to fight climate change.” Each Challenge round has resulted in demonstrable carbon reductions. In 2014, compared to the 2013 pilot year, there were 40 percent more households participating and 60 percent more greenhouse gas reductions in half the time. In 2015, the Challenge is now a project of Energy Upgrade California®, a statewide initiative to help Californians take action to save energy and conserve natural resources, reduce demand on the electricity grid and make informed energy management choices at home and at work. The Challenge provides a way for local governments, organizations and communities to come together using existing social networks to engage and motivate hundreds of participants to achieve a common sustainability goal. The Challenge encourages individuals to make better energy-related choices at home, at work and on the road. It is designed to integrate with cities’ existing sustainability initiatives and support their greenhouse gas reduction goals. Cash prizes again will be given to cities that participate in the Challenge. Points are earned a number of ways, including by reducing household energy use and tailpipe emissions. For example, participants may choose to ride a bike instead of driving, or to hang laundry out to dry instead of using a dryer. Points are easily tracked using the City Challenge online software. Key dates for this year’s competition: • Now through Aug. 31: Cities register to participate • July-September: ‘Challenge’ planning period for cities/community based organizations • Oct. 1: Start date for participant sign-ups and earning points • Dec. 15: Midway contest for participant sign-ups ends • March 30, 2016: Challenge competition ends/last day to earn points • Earth Day, April 22, 2016: Winners announced • May (date TBD): Award ceremony crowning the victor and runner-up cities, prize money awarded Cities interested in the participating in this year's Challenge should visit http://bit.ly/1MmLWKJ for more information. The CoolCaliforna Challenge is a collaborative effort between California government and university and nonprofit organizations with support from the CoolCalifornia Challenge Management Team, consisting of members from Energy Upgrade California®, the California Air Resources Board and researchers at UC Berkeley’s Renewable and Appropriate Energy Laboratory. Energy Upgrade California® is a state initiative to educate residents and small business consumers about energy management. The initiative helps Californians take action to save energy and conserve natural resources, reduce demand on the electricity grid, and make informed energy management choices at home and at work. It is supported by an alliance of the California Public Utilities Commission, the California Energy Commission, utilities, regional energy networks, local governments, businesses, and nonprofits to help communities meet state and local energy and climate action goals. Funding comes from investor-owned utility customers under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission. ©2013 Energy Upgrade California. Trademarks are property of their respective owners. All rights reserved. To support voluntary actions to reduce carbon emissions, ARB has developed a variety of tools and resources that are available at http://coolcalifornia.org . For more information, contact Pamela Wellner at (415) 795-2149 or challenge@energyupgradeca.org. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 21 Jul 2015 11:26:41 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Navistar Inc. fined $250,000 for violating state air emissions regulations From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1Iik0XA -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 21, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-43 CONTACT: Karen Caesar (916) 322-2990 karen.caesar@arb.ca.gov Navistar Inc. fined $250,000 for violating state air emissions regulations $62,500 to help clean up school buses throughout the state SACRAMENTO - Navistar Inc. paid $250,000 in penalties to the Air Resources Board for failing to follow proper testing procedures for one of its diesel exhaust filters, as required by state law. “Companies that are in the business of providing pollution control technology for vehicles must make sure that their products actually do what they say they will do,” said ARB’s new Enforcement Chief, Todd Sax. “Navistar sold diesel particulate filters in California without proper testing at specified intervals, in violation of our air quality laws. To their credit, once they were notified of these infractions, they took prompt action and cooperated fully with ARB.” The state’s Verification Procedure requires compliance testing for each category of diesel particulate filters after a certain number of units are sold or leased in the California market. Results of these tests must be submitted to ARB’s Executive Officer after each phase of testing in the form of a compliance report. Navistar failed to follow the in-use compliance requirements of the Verification Procedure for the DPX™ Catalyzed Soot Filter System. The company had sold more than 200 in California, with many installed on school buses in the San Diego County region, which should have triggered the required testing. Illinois-based Navistar has agreed to follow all required procedures and paid $187,500 to the Air Pollution Control fund to support air quality research, and $62,500 to the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District to clean up school bus fleets throughout the state. 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 health problems. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 3 Aug 2015 10:41:49 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board Chair commends U.S. EPA on release of Clean Power Plan From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1IAS2QM -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 3, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-45 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board Chair commends U.S. EPA on release of Clean Power Plan Plan will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from power plants Sacramento—Air Resources Board Chair Mary D. Nichols today released the following statement on US EPA’s Clean Power Plan rules, which limit greenhouse gas emissions from power plants: “The Clean Power Plan supports successful state programs like those California has put in place. We will move quickly to implement it and urge other states to do the same,” said Chair Nichols. “California’s experience demonstrates that greenhouse gas emission reductions and economic growth can go hand-in-hand, and we are very pleased to see the federal government now take a leading role in the effort to curb climate change and create new economic opportunities.” Background The Clean Power Plan, issued under the federal Clean Air Act, is a keystone of the Obama Administration’s Climate Action Plan to reduce the country’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the primary GHG pollutant, accounting for nearly three-quarters of global greenhouse gas emissions and 84 percent of U.S. GHG emissions. Fossil fuel-fired power plants are, by far, the largest emitters of GHGs among stationary sources in the U.S. These emissions are a major threat to public health and can be avoided using cleaner power generation options that are also more cost-effective for ratepayers. California has long supported Clean Air Act action, and played a significant role in U.S. EPA’s collaborative effort to develop the Plan. Under the regulation each state is given its own reduction target based on the amount of GHG its existing power generators can reduce through well-demonstrated options (ranging from power plant upgrades to energy efficiency). Each state is also given the flexibility to meet the target using measures that they choose. The national reduction in U.S. EPA’s proposed rule was estimated to be about 30 percent below 2005 levels by 2030. California’s target reflects that national goal, and the state is already well on its way to further reducing power sector emissions. That target fits within the planned economy-wide state reduction goal of 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. That target was set recently by Governor Brown’s Executive Order (B-30-15). California is currently on track to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 under the California Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32). The Clean Power Plan builds on the success of programs already underway across the country, which show that energy efficiency, renewable energy, and smarter grids can deliver clean power, protecting the public and the planet. ARB looks forward to building a state compliance plan that supports both the state and federal GHG reductions efforts through a public stakeholder process, beginning this fall. See more about AB 32 here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/cc.htm Governor Brown’s Executive Order directing 40 percent emission reductions beyond 2020 is here: http://gov.ca.gov/news.php?id=18938 Learn more about the Clean Power Plan here: http://www2.epa.gov/cleanpowerplan California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Aug 2015 15:06:10 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- California Air Resources Board now accepting applications for CoolCalifornia Small Business Awards Program From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1MJvO4Z -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 24, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-50 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov California Air Resources Board now accepting applications for CoolCalifornia Small Business Awards Program ARB to recognize green business efforts, sustainable practices The Air Resources Board is accepting applications now through Nov. 2 for its sixth CoolCalifornia Small Business Awards Program, which recognizes small businesses that integrate environmental stewardship and sustainability into their business practices. California small businesses eligible to compete for a CoolCalifornia Small Business Award are those that demonstrate climate leadership by reducing energy use, conserving water and minimizing their greenhouse gas emissions. “Small businesses across the state have consistently demonstrated that making smart climate-friendly choices is good for the environment and for their bottom line,” ARB Chair Mary D. Nichols said. “Now in its sixth year, the CoolCalifornia Small Business Awards provides an opportunity to recognize the leadership and innovation of businesses and organizations that are taking actions to save money while reducing their environmental impacts and greenhouse gas emissions.” Small businesses that meet the requirements can apply online (application available here: http://bit.ly/1JfQAoi) for an award between August 24, 2015, and November 2, 2015. Winners will be recognized by ARB at a public ceremony in Sacramento in February 2016, and will be profiled on the CoolCalifornia.org website and in a statewide press release. Awards will be given to small businesses in two categories: • CoolCalifornia Small Business of the Year Award: Awarded to small businesses that have taken significant actions in 2014-2015 to reduce their climate impacts, demonstrated measurable greenhouse gas reductions and documented benefits from the actions they have taken (e.g., cost savings, return on investment, etc.) by using tools such as the CoolCalifornia small business carbon calculator. • CoolCalifornia Climate Leader Award: Awarded to small businesses that were proactive in reducing their environmental impacts and can describe in detail the specific actions taken in 2014-2015 to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Last year ARB recognized 16 small businesses that took a variety of actions to save money while reducing their environmental impacts and greenhouse gas emissions. These included installing light emitting diode (LED) lights, wind turbines, solar panels and energy efficient equipment; purchasing or using hybrid, electric, or biofuel vehicles; composting food waste and plant material; using recycled/reused/repurposed products; digitizing all paperwork and patient records; and starting or enhancing recycling and water conservation programs. More information on past winners available here: http://bit.ly/1hXkYNl Video about the CoolCalifornia Small Business Awards program available here: https://youtu.be/CoNNK18upPc California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 25 Aug 2015 12:07:20 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- California and Quebec release results for fourth joint cap-and-trade auction From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1MRKQqX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 25, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-48 CONTACT: Dave.Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov California and Quebec release results for fourth joint cap-and-trade auction SACRAMENTO - Today at noon (PST), California and Quebec released the results of the August 18, 2015 joint cap-and-trade auction of carbon allowances. The final numbers include sales figures and settlement prices for 2015 and 2018 vintages. 2015 Vintage Number offered: 73,429,360 Number sold: 73,429,360 Settlement Price: $12.52 2018 Vintage Number offered: 10,431,500 Number sold: 10,431,500 Settlement Price: $12.30 For more detailed results on the auction, including maximum and minimum bids placed, please go to: www.arb.ca.gov/auction California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 27 Aug 2015 09:56:41 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- MEDIA ADVISORY: Air Resources Board and partners celebrate significant milestone with clean-air trucks From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1Lyu3Gg -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 27, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-49 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov MEDIA ADVISORY: Air Resources Board and partners celebrate significant milestone with clean-air trucks CHINO - The California Air Resources Board is recognizing the 2,000th Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher, to be handed to Redwood Products of Chino, a small business that invested in a clean, low-carbon hybrid delivery truck. Cleaner trucks mean fewer unhealthy diesel emissions in San Bernardino, Riverside and the surrounding area. The incentive program has contributed to air pollution reductions in the Southern California region and throughout California. Since its launch in 2010, HVIP has provided more than $63 million to help California fleets statewide purchase more than 430 zero-emission trucks and buses and 1,800 hybrid trucks and buses – and additional funding is on the way. Funding for this program is primarily supported through California Climate Investments made possible by California’s Cap-and-Trade Program. WHO: Speakers include Senator Connie M. Levya, Mr. Christopher Craig, a representative for Assemblyman Freddie Rodriguez, California Air Resources Board Member Barbara Riordan, Marcie Rodriguez of Redwood Products, and a representative from Hino Trucks. Also attending are representatives of CALSTART, Rush Truck Center and the South Coast Air Quality Management District. WHAT: Air regulators, elected officials and industry celebrate a clean-air milestone at Redwood Products, which provides mulch, wood chips and other products to nurseries and the landscape industry in five western states. The Chino business is the recipient of the 2,000th Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher in the amount of $23,000 to purchase a low-carbon Hino hybrid truck, covering close to one-third of the truck price. WHEN: Friday, August 28, from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Question-and-answer to follow. WHERE: Redwood Products, 9301 Remington Ave., Chino, Calif., 91710. VISUALS: A clean-air branded Hino hybrid truck and Redwood Products’ Hino hybrid delivery truck, presentation of Legislative certificate and symbolic $23,000 check to Redwood Products. Background: HVIP is the nation’s first program to directly reduce the up-front cost of hybrid or zero-emission trucks and buses. HVIP incentives drive manufacturing production and fleet acceptance of the advanced heavy-duty vehicle technologies California must deploy to meet its long-term air quality and climate goals. Consumer incentives are needed because these products generally cost more than their conventional counterparts, which can be a significant deterrent to their purchase. This streamlined approach – with eligible vehicles and preset voucher amounts available on a first-come, first-served basis – has proven popular with vehicle dealers, manufacturers, and California fleets. The program provides vouchers of up to $95,000 for California purchasers and lessees of zero-emission trucks and buses, and up to $30,000 for eligible hybrid trucks and buses on a first-come, first-served basis. HVIP also provides incentives of up to $110,000 for zero-emission trucks that provide benefits to disadvantaged communities. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Aug 2015 10:34:56 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board and partners celebrate significant milestone with clean-air trucks From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1KqsnQe -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 28, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-50 CONTACT: Karen Caesar (916) 322-2990 karen.caesar@arb.ca.gov Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board and partners celebrate significant milestone with clean-air trucks Since 2010, ARB has awarded 2,000 vouchers for low-carbon hybrid and zero-emission trucks CHINO – The California Air Resources Board, elected officials and industry today celebrated the 2,000th Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher, awarded to Redwood Products of Chino, a small business that invested in a clean, low-carbon hybrid delivery truck. Cleaner trucks mean fewer unhealthy diesel emissions. The incentive program has contributed to air pollution reductions in neighborhoods throughout California. Since its launch in 2010, the Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP) has provided more than $63 million to help California fleets statewide purchase more than 430 zero-emission trucks and buses and 1,800 hybrid trucks and buses – and additional funding is on the way. Funding for this program is primarily supported through California Climate Investments, programs funded by the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund using proceeds from the state’s cap-and-trade auctions. “Thanks to California Climate Investments, which support clean transportation programs like HVIP, our communities are getting an infusion of resources that help businesses buy low-carbon vehicles, support economic growth and help clean the air – all which will pay dividends for generations to come,” Air Resources Board Executive Officer Richard Corey said. Redwood Products is the recipient of a $23,000 voucher, which covered close to one-third of the price of a low-carbon Hino hybrid truck. Based in Chino, Redwood Products provides mulch, wood chips and other products to nurseries and the landscape industry in five western states. Those who gathered to mark the occasion included Senator Connie M. Leyva; Mr. Christopher Craig, a representative for Assemblyman Freddie Rodriguez; California Air Resources Board Member Barbara Riordan; and representatives from Redwood Products, Hino Trucks, CALSTART, Rush Truck Center and the South Coast Air Quality Management District. HVIP is the nation’s first program to directly reduce the up-front cost of hybrid or zero-emission trucks and buses. HVIP incentives drive manufacturing production and fleet acceptance of the advanced heavy-duty vehicle technologies California must deploy to meet its long-term air quality and climate goals. Consumer incentives are needed because these products generally cost more than their conventional counterparts, which can be a significant deterrent to their purchase. This streamlined approach – with eligible vehicles and preset voucher amounts available on a first-come, first-served basis – has proven popular with vehicle dealers, manufacturers, and California fleets. The program provides vouchers of up to $95,000 for California purchasers and lessees of zero-emission trucks and buses, and up to $30,000 for eligible hybrid trucks and buses on a first-come, first-served basis. HVIP also provides incentives of up to $110,000 for zero-emission trucks that provide benefits to disadvantaged communities. The ARB in June approved a $373 million funding plan that covers all investments in advanced technologies for fiscal year 2015-16, from zero-emission heavy-duty trucks to rebates for low- and zero-emission passenger vehicles. The bulk of the $373 million -- $350 million -- comes through California Climate Investments. These low-carbon transportation investments include $200 million for light-duty vehicles and $167.5 million for heavy-duty vehicle and freight-equipment projects, including vouchers to help support the purchase of hybrid and zero-emission trucks and buses. For more information about HVIP, visit http://bit.ly/1KqrS91 For information about ARB’s fiscal year 2015-16 Funding Plan for Low Carbon Transportation Investments and the Air Quality Improvement Program, visit http://bit.ly/1Kfh6DY For a press release about the Funding Plan, visit http://bit.ly/1FDuKYx California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 2 Sep 2015 09:21:39 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- MEDIA ADVISORY: Environmental expert to speak on elements of a successful national bicycle policy From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1NardKS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 2, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-51 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov MEDIA ADVISORY: Environmental expert to speak on elements of a successful national bicycle policy SACRAMENTO - The California Air Resources Board presents a talk on the “National Bicycle Policy in Germany,” focusing on tools for policy implementation and goals for the future. The talk is part of an ongoing series of research seminars that are open to the public and hosted by the Air Resources Board. WHO: Axel Friedrich, Ph.D., environmental expert and former member of the Committee of the German transport ministry for the implementation of the National Bicycle Plan. His special interests include sustainable transport, climate gas reduction, non-regulated emissions, the influence of fuels on emissions, and biofuels. WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 3, 2015, at 2 p.m. WHERE: Sierra Hearing Room, Second Floor, Cal EPA headquarters, 1001 I Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814. WHAT: Dr. Friedrich will discuss the establishment of the German national bicycle transport plan as part of a sustainable transport strategy, and the benefits of doing so. About Axel Friedrich: During his 30-year career, Alex Friedrich has held prominent positions with the Umweltbundesamt, the Federal Environment Agency of Germany. He has led programs dealing with transport-related environmental issues, including air pollution, noise and planning. Prior to 1994 he headed programs working on refineries and fuels as well as marine environmental protection. Since 2008, Dr. Friedrich has been a consultant for the World Bank, the German Coperation for International Cooperation, Asian Development Bank and other international bodies in a number of developing countries, including China, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Chile, Mexico and Brazil. Dr. Friedrich has been involved in the rule-making process in Europe for emissions standards for cars, trucks and fuels. He was a founding member of the International Council for Clean Transport. In 2006, he was the recipient of the Air Resources Board’s Haagen-Smit Award. For more information on the talk, visit: http://bit.ly/1XguATv To access the talk via webcast, visit: http://www.calepa.ca.gov/broadcast/?bdo=1 Webcast viewers are invited to send questions during the broadcast to: sierrarm@calepa.ca.gov California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 2 Sep 2015 13:52:53 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board expands financial incentives for dry cleaners switching to non-toxic, non-smog-forming cleaners From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1EzQbA4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 2, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-52 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board expands financial incentives for dry cleaners switching to non-toxic, non-smog-forming cleaners SACRAMENTO - Additional grant funding is now available for dry cleaners willing to demonstrate to other dry cleaning businesses the benefits and methods of wet cleaning, an alternative to perchloroethylene, a solvent -- and probable human carcinogen -- widely used for dry-cleaning fabrics. A state regulation calls for dry cleaners to eliminate the use of perchloroethylene, also known as perc, in their dry cleaning operations by Jan. 1, 2023, or sooner based on the machine’s life expectancy. The solvent perc has been identified as a toxic air contaminant. Assembly Bill 998 established the Non-Toxic Dry Cleaning Incentive Program to provide financial assistance to help dry cleaners comply with California’s regulation to eliminate perc and switch to non-toxic, non-smog forming alternatives. Under AB 998, the Air Resources Board provides a $10,000 grant incentive to dry cleaners that remove their perc machine and replace it with a wet cleaning system. Starting this summer, dry cleaners across California that make the switch -- and are willing to host demonstrations and answer questions from others in the industry -- are eligible for an additional $7,500 for serving as a demonstration site. Dry cleaners that qualify for the financial incentive commit to serving as a demonstration site for two years. The combined $17,500 covers more than a third of the average cost of a wet cleaning system. At the end of the two years, dry cleaners can apply to be a demonstration site again. If the business had converted 100 percent of its cleaning systems to a non-toxic, non-smog-forming alternative to perc, it is eligible to receive $2,000 to be a demonstration site. A $1,000 award is possible for eligible dry cleaners that use a mix of approved and non-approved cleaning systems. Wet cleaning demonstrations help to spread the word about funding opportunities and wet cleaning’s viability. Cleaners bring their most challenging garments for testing. Shop owners share their expertise and answer questions, and help to show that wet cleaning is environmentally sustainable – and profitable. For more information about the Non-Toxic Dry Cleaning Incentive Program (AB 998), visit: http://bit.ly/1XhBurI For more information about the AB 998 Demonstration Program, visit: http://bit.ly/1Q9i1Vu California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 18 Sep 2015 10:36:33 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- EPA, California Notify Volkswagen of Clean Air Act Violations From: jswanton@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SEPTEMBER 18, 2015 CONTACT : STANLEY YOUNG (916) 322-2990 (916) 956-9409 cell syoung@arb.ca.gov EPA, California Notify Volkswagen of Clean Air Act Violations Carmaker allegedly used software that circumvents emissions testing for certain air pollutants WASHINGTON - Today, EPA is issuing a notice of violation (NOV) of the Clean Air Act (CAA) to Volkswagen AG, Audi AG, and Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (collectively referred to as Volkswagen). The NOV alleges that four-cylinder Volkswagen and Audi diesel cars from model years 2009-2015 include software that circumvents EPA emissions standards for certain air pollutants. California is separately issuing an In-Use Compliance letter to Volkswagen, and EPA and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) have both initiated investigations based on Volkswagen’s alleged actions. “Using a defeat device in cars to evade clean air standards is illegal and a threat to public health,” said Cynthia Giles, Assistant Administrator for the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “Working closely with the California Air Resources Board, EPA is committed to making sure that all automakers play by the same rules. EPA will continue to investigate these very serious matters.” “Working with US EPA we are taking this important step to protect public health thanks to the dogged investigations by our laboratory scientists and staff,” said Air Resources Board Executive Officer Richard Corey. “Our goal now is to ensure that the affected cars are brought into compliance, to dig more deeply into the extent and implications of Volkswagen’s efforts to cheat on clean air rules, and to take appropriate further action.” As described in the NOV, a sophisticated software algorithm on certain Volkswagen vehicles detects when the car is undergoing official emissions testing, and turns full emissions controls on only during the test. The effectiveness of these vehicles’ pollution emissions control devices is greatly reduced during all normal driving situations. This results in cars that meet emissions standards in the laboratory or testing station, but during normal operation, emit nitrogen oxides, or NOx, at up to 40 times the standard. The software produced by Volkswagen is a “defeat device,” as defined by the Clean Air Act. The Clean Air Act requires vehicle manufacturers to certify to EPA that their products will meet applicable federal emission standards to control air pollution, and every vehicle sold in the U.S. must be covered by an EPA-issued certificate of conformity. Motor vehicles equipped with defeat devices, which reduce the effectiveness of the emission control system during normal driving conditions, cannot be certified. By making and selling vehicles with defeat devices that allowed for higher levels of air emissions than were certified to EPA, Volkswagen violated two important provisions of the Clean Air Act. EPA and CARB uncovered the defeat device software after independent analysis by researchers at West Virginia University, working with the International Council on Clean Transportation, a non-governmental organization, raised questions about emissions levels, and the agencies began further investigations into the issue. In September, after EPA and CARB demanded an explanation for the identified emission problems, Volkswagen admitted that the cars contained defeat devices. NOx pollution contributes to nitrogen dioxide, ground-level ozone, and fine particulate matter. Exposure to these pollutants has been linked with a range of serious health effects, including increased asthma attacks and other respiratory illnesses that can be serious enough to send people to the hospital. Exposure to ozone and particulate matter have also been associated with premature death due to respiratory-related or cardiovascular-related effects. Children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing respiratory disease are particularly at risk for health effects of these pollutants. VW may be liable for civil penalties and injunctive relief for the violations alleged in the NOV. The allegations cover roughly 482,000 diesel passenger cars sold in the United States since 2008. Affected diesel models include: • Jetta (Model Years 2009 – 2015) • Beetle (Model Years 2009 – 2015) • Audi A3 (Model Years 2009 – 2015) • Golf (Model Years 2009 – 2015) • Passat (Model Years 2014-2015) It is incumbent upon Volkswagen to initiate the process that will fix the cars’ emissions systems. Car owners should know that although these vehicles have emissions exceeding standards, these violations do not present a safety hazard and the cars remain legal to drive and resell. Owners of cars of these models and years do not need to take any action at this time. More information on EPA’s NOV: www3.epa.gov/otaq/cert/violations.htm More information on CARB’s In-Use Compliance Letter: http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/in_use_compliance_letter.htm http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/in_use_compliance_letter.pdf California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 21 Sep 2015 16:33:09 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Study links California regulations, dramatic declines in cancer risk from exposure to air toxics From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1KIiQ7a -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 21, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-55 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov Study links California regulations, dramatic declines in cancer risk from exposure to air toxics Particle pollution from diesel-fueled engines, responsible for most airborne cancer risk in California, declined nearly 70% SACRAMENTO - An Air Resources Board study, published today in the prestigious scientific journal “Environmental Science & Technology,” shows that the cancer risk from exposure to the state’s most significant air toxics declined 76 percent over a 23-year period in California, a direct result of regulations targeting unhealthful emissions from these air pollutants. The study quantifies emission trends for the period from 1990 through 2012 for seven toxic air contaminants (TACs) that are responsible for most of the known cancer risk associated with airborne exposure in California. “These impressive reductions in California’s most hazardous toxic contaminants in our air took place against a backdrop of more than two decades of steady growth in California, with a growing population, and increasing numbers of cars and trucks that used ever larger quantities of gas and diesel,” Air Resources Board Chair Mary D. Nichols said. “There is no way these improvements in public health would have occurred without a strong, well designed program to reduce public exposure to toxic air pollution.” Significant findings of the study, “Ambient and Emission Trends of Toxic Air Contaminants in California,” include: • Thanks to state regulations, emissions from perchloroethylene from dry cleaners and hexavalent chromium from chrome plating, each dropped by more than 90 percent, and regulations already in place are expected to eliminate the remaining emissions of perchloroethylene and greatly reduce hexavalent chromium. • Diesel particulate matter, which is emitted mainly from trucks and buses and is responsible for most of the airborne cancer risk in California, declined 68 percent, as a result of the State’s regulatory efforts to clean up diesel exhaust. This reduction took place even while the state’s population increased 31 percent, diesel vehicle-miles-traveled increased 81 percent and the gross state product increased 74 percent. The implementation of ARB’s recent diesel engine retrofit and replacement requirements has accelerated fleet turnover to cleaner trucks, and significant additional reductions are projected statewide. • Two other toxic air contaminants emitted mainly from mobile sources, benzene and 1,3-butadiene, declined by nearly 90 percent. This was largely the result of California gasoline reformulation in 1996. • The aggregated collective cancer risk from exposure to these seven air toxics declined 76 percent over the 23-year period. The paper makes clear that further significant reduction in cancer risk to California residents is expected to continue as a result of continued implementation of air toxic controls. Such controls are part of broader statewide transportation initiatives, including the Truck and Bus Rule and more than a dozen rules focused on diesel equipment serving ports and railyards. Neighborhoods in freight corridors, including those near ports, will especially benefit. The nearly 70 percent drop in harmful diesel particle pollution coincided with actions taken over the years, beginning in the 1990s, to reduce diesel emissions. In the 1990s, California adopted a reformulated diesel fuel program, started a heavy-duty diesel truck roadside inspection program, implemented particle pollution standards for urban transit buses and established standards for off-road diesel engines. In 2006, California began requiring ultra-low-sulfur diesel fuel. And following the establishment of California’s statewide Truck and Bus Rule in 2008, California began requiring diesel particulate filters on trucks, dramatically reducing diesel particulate matter, or soot, from the exhaust gas of diesel engines. ARB regulations have reduced air toxics emissions from vehicles and their fuels, from stationary sources and from consumer products since the mid-1980s. In response to public concern, the California Legislature passed the Toxic Air Contaminant Identification and Control Act in 1984. Since then, ARB has implemented regulations to limit TAC emissions. In 1987, the California Legislature passed the Air Toxics “Hot Spots” Information and Assessment Act, which requires businesses to reduce risks from exposure to emitted TACs. To access the publication, visit: http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.est.5b02766 Link to the full article may not be available until Friday. Interested reporters are invited to contact Melanie Turner at the phone number provided. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 25 Sep 2015 09:37:48 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Statement by ARB regarding enhanced testing of modern light-duty diesel engines From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1PBV9x7 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 25, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-58 CONTACT: Stanley Young (916) 322-2990 (916) 956-9409 - cell stanley.young@arb.ca.gov Statement by ARB regarding enhanced testing of modern light-duty diesel engines Today the California Air Resources Board sent a letter to automobile manufacturers notifying them that ARB will begin using enhanced testing procedures for modern light-duty diesel vehicles to determine compliance with emission levels to which they were originally certified. A copy of the letter is viewable here: http://bit.ly/1VfqpUr In addition, ARB made the following statement regarding actions related to cars with diesel engines manufactured by Volkswagen. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) are working with Volkswagen to evaluate potential recall solutions for the affected vehicles. The September 18, 2015 CARB In-Use Compliance letter and USEPA Notice of Violation cover three generations of Volkswagen four-cylinder diesel vehicles. Both CARB and USEPA will evaluate the technical solutions that Volkswagen develops to ensure their emissions performance is corrected back or close to expected levels in real world driving. Recall actions proposed by Volkswagen will also be scrutinized for any potential adverse impacts on consumers. As both agencies and Volkswagen get closer to final recall solutions, those solutions will be communicated to consumers through the media and more formally by Volkswagen through recall action letters to affected vehicle owners. CARB will take actions that protect public health, air quality and consumers by aggressively continuing its ongoing investigation into Volkswagen’s defeat device, with additional testing and investigation of the potential presence of similar devices in vehicles across manufacturers. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 25 Sep 2015 12:07:00 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board readopts Low Carbon Fuel Standard From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1OXa1bg -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 25, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-59 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board readopts Low Carbon Fuel Standard Requires 10 percent reduction in carbon intensity of transportation fuels by 2020 Sacramento — The Air Resources Board today re-adopted a Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS), which requires a 10 percent reduction by 2020 in the carbon intensity of transportation fuels. The LCFS, a pillar supporting the state’s efforts to fight climate change, delivers more clean fuels for Californians, and reduces emissions of greenhouse gases and other air pollutants. “Today’s action builds on years of successful implementation and will continue reducing carbon emissions from the transportation sector. Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gases in the state,” said Air Resources Board Chair Mary D. Nichols. “This program is a key element of California’s plans to enact Governor Brown’s Executive Order mandating a 50 percent cut in petroleum use by 2030.” The LCFS is an important tool in California’s efforts to reduce the impacts of climate change by spurring innovation in an array of cleaner fuels. The program requires that transportation fuels used in California meet a baseline target for carbon intensity. That target is reduced each year. If a product is above the annual carbon intensity target, the fuel incurs deficits. If a product is below that target, the fuel generates credits which may be used later for compliance, or sold to other producers who have deficits. So far, fuel producers are over-complying with the regulation. Carbon intensity is determined through a life cycle analysis measuring the amount of carbon generated during the extraction, production, transportation, and combustion of a fuel. The LCFS does not require use of any specific fuel, only that regulated parties find a blend of fuels and credits that will meet the declining target each year. The LCFS is a pillar supporting California’s effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in accordance with AB 32’s 2020 target and to achieve further reductions beyond that. The regulation is also intended to spur innovation in transportation fuels and to reduce California’s dependence on petroleum. The decline in the LCFS carbon intensity targets was frozen due to a legal challenge. To address the court’s ruling and to strengthen the program, the Air Resources Board readopted the LCFS regulation following public testimony delivered yesterday at the first of a two-day Board meeting. The readopted version of the LCFS includes a number of modifications developed with stakeholder input. These include: • Incorporating additional cost containment in response to stakeholder concerns about possible price spikes by including a mechanism to cap LCFS credit prices; • Streamlining the application process for alternative fuel producers seeking a carbon intensity score; • Improving the process for earning LCFS credits by charging electric vehicles. Alternative Diesel Fuels The Board today also adopted a regulation governing alternative diesel fuels (ADF). The regulation puts in place a three-step process beginning in 2016 to create a path to bring cleaner diesel substitutes into the market. This regulation also establishes requirements and fuel specifications for biodiesel to ensure the emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from biodiesel use will not increase, and will be reduced over time. Biodiesel and other ADFs can help producers achieve their target under the LCFS. Other programs that will result in a decreased use of petroleum while helping achieve the 40 percent reduction of greenhouse gases by 2030 as called for by Governor Brown include the advanced clean car regulations that deliver greater fuel efficiency, the zero-emission vehicle mandate putting more electric and hydrogen powered cars on the streets, and the State’s efforts under SB 375 to develop more livable, walkable communities and improve public transit. California’s greenhouse gas reduction programs achieve additional benefits. For example, the reduction of greenhouse gases as a result of reduced petroleum use often coincides with reductions of air pollutants that increase the severity of asthma and cardiovascular disease, and ultimately cost Californians their lives. View the amended LCFS and ADF regulation here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/fuels/lcfs/lcfs.htm California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 29 Sep 2015 11:57:39 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- International Alliance on Zero-Emission Vehicles Grows to 11 Partners From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1LZLiOm -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 29, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-60 CONTACT: Alex Barnum, CalEPA (916) 324-9670 Alex.Barnum@calepa.ca.gov International Alliance on Zero-Emission Vehicles Grows to 11 Partners As Market Reaches One Million Vehicles, Partnership Seeks to Accelerate Global Adoption NEW YORK – Broadening its efforts to fight climate change and grow its clean energy economy, California is joining with 10 European and North American governments as founding partners of an international alliance to accelerate global adoption of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). Members of the International ZEV Alliance, which together account for more than a third of global electric vehicle sales, will cooperate to set ambitious targets to drive ZEV deployment, share data and best practice policies, and encourage other governments to join them. An agenda for expanding collaboration is outlined in a report released today (located at http://bit.ly/1Vlxh80) by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT). In addition to California, founding members of the alliance include The Netherlands, Norway and the United Kingdom in Europe; Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, Oregon, Rhode Island and Vermont in the United States; and Québec. The alliance was launched last month, and the founding members were announced today at a signing event at the Québec government office in New York. “Limiting the impact of climate change is only possible if we transition to cleaner, more energy efficient vehicles,” said California Secretary for Environmental Protection Matthew Rodriquez. “We’re very pleased to be joining with many of the leaders in this growing market, and we look forward to working with them to put more drivers at the wheel of zero-emission vehicles.” The ICCT report, “Transition to a Global Zero-Emission Vehicle Fleet: A Collaborative Agenda for Governments,” highlights how the world’s leading electric vehicle markets are being shaped by new and innovative public policies, including consumer incentives and infrastructure investments. The report also identifies a variety of ways that governments can improve collaboration to accelerate ZEV adoption. “In these early years in the transition, there is much to learn from every region’s experience in the roll-out of zero emission vehicles. Developing the new zero-emission vehicle market will require global scale, in the tens of millions of vehicles, to achieve lower cost and long-term success,” the report says. “International collaboration will be a critical step toward greater market volume and a long-term market transformation.” This month, ICCT estimates that the number of plug-in electric vehicles on the world’s roads reached one million – a major milestone in the emergence of this new industry. The milestone was achieved in about six years – several years faster than it took for non-plug-in hybrid electric vehicles to reach the first million in sales. (Read ICCT’s blog post on this subject here: http://bit.ly/1jvetCe) But with global vehicles approaching two billion, electric vehicle growth will have to ramp up dramatically to achieve long-term climate goals. Members of the International ZEV Alliance are leading the way in this transition. Although the 11 member countries, states and province account for only seven percent of global car sales, they represent 38 percent of the global market for electric vehicles – thanks in large part to innovative government policies and investments. “These governments have been crucial to early adoption of electric vehicles,” said Nic Lutsey, Program Director and author of the ICCT report. The ICCT also serves as Secretariat to the International ZEV Alliance. “Each government has helped grow the early market with a mix of financial and non-financial incentives, vehicle policy, consumer awareness and outreach, and the installation of a charging infrastructure.” The most comprehensive electric vehicle promotion actions globally are seen in International ZEV Alliance markets, the ICCT report found. In several of these markets, their actions are resulting in electric vehicle deployment that is more than 10 times the average for electric vehicle sales internationally. “Norway has done a lot to spur the electric vehicle market domestically,” said Jens Frølich Holthe, Political Advisor to Norway’s Minister for Environment. “We see working together with other proactive governments as a key to a global transition to an electric fleet. The problem of climate change is clearly global, and we see electric vehicles as one of the important global climate solutions.” All seven of the U.S. states joining the alliance are also members of a multi-state task force to support electric vehicles in the United States. Created in 2013, the task force is working to implement a joint action plan that includes encouraging fleets to acquire ZEVs, planning and investing in ZEV infrastructure, and tracking progress toward the goal of a combined 3.3 million ZEVs on U.S. highways by 2025. The International ZEV Alliance is the next step in their commitment to accelerate deployment of zero-emission vehicles. Statements from International ZEV Alliance members: Connecticut Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection Robert Klee: “Connecticut recognizes that in order to reach our 2050 greenhouse gas reduction targets we will have to address the contribution of mobile sources to our emissions – which is just over 40 percent – by transforming our vehicle fleet. We are eager to work with California and our international partners to address climate change and transform the global vehicle market to zero-emission options for future generations – and Connecticut remains committed to building out our publicly available electric vehicle charging infrastructure and incentivizing the purchase of plug-in vehicles through direct consumer rebates.” Maryland Secretary of the Environment Ben Grumbles: "Zero emission vehicles can deliver big gains for our environment and economy. Maryland embraces opportunities for environmental progress through expanded markets, stronger partnerships, and affordable options for consumers and infrastructure planners." Vermont Secretary of Natural Resources Deb Markowitz: “Vermont is pleased to join the International ZEV Alliance because of our commitment to reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, and because we know that this goal can best be achieved by working in partnership with other governments as well as with the private sector. A major source of carbon pollution in Vermont comes from our transportation sector, and electric vehicles are the cleanest cars on our roads today. Accelerating the adoption of ZEVs by Vermonters is essential for meeting our state’s climate and clean energy goals, reducing air pollution, and insulating our economy from future volatility in oil prices.” California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Sep 2015 09:50:45 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- ARB releases plan to slash short-lived climate pollutants From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1LPnBfX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 30, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-61 CONTACT: Stanley Young (916) 322-2990 stanley.young@arb.ca.gov ARB releases plan to slash short-lived climate pollutants Reductions of potent heat-trapping gases will deliver health and economic benefits SACRAMENTO — Building on California’s climate leadership, the Air Resources Board today released a draft Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy, pursuant to Senate Bill 605 (Lara). The draft strategy describes proposed actions the State will take to move forward aggressively to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) and help meet Governor Brown’s goal of reducing greenhouse gases 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. SLCPs include methane, black carbon and fluorinated gases (F-gases) such as refrigerants, insulating foam and aerosol propellants. They are harmful air pollutants and powerful contributors to climate change, trapping heat at many times the level of carbon dioxide, and are responsible for about 40 percent of current global warming. Mobilizing Action The draft strategy follows Governor Brown’s announcement last Thursday – at an event in New York hosted by the United Nations Environment Programme and the Climate and Clean Air Coalition to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants – that California would reduce emissions of methane and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by 40 percent below current levels by 2030, and black carbon by 50 percent below current levels by 2030. It also comes a week after bi-partisan legislation was re-introduced in the U.S. Senate to address SLCPs nationally. “We’re completely committed,” said Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. “We’re mobilizing the science, we’re mobilizing the legislative resources, and whatever else is needed. We will also continue to work with countries like Mexico, India and China to help them deal with air pollution issues.” The Missing Link: Controlling Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Strong, immediate action to cut emissions of both carbon dioxide and SLCPs is necessary to limit average global warming below 2 degrees Celsius. “California has set ambitious climate goals and has the most comprehensive set of policies and programs in place to reduce air pollution and carbon emissions from all sources,” said Mary Nichols, Chair of the Air Resources Board. “Now, we’re doing the same for short-lived climate pollutants. They’re the missing link on our global path to limiting warming below 2 degrees Celsius.” Building on Success The draft strategy describes existing and proposed new efforts to meet the targets laid out by the Governor. Black Carbon Black carbon is a component of fine particulate matter, which the State has addressed for decades through its efforts to improve air quality and reduce toxic air pollution from diesel vehicles. California has cut emissions of black carbon by well over 90 percent since the 1960s. These efforts avoid an estimated 5,000 premature deaths in the State each year, have cut cancer risk from exposure to air toxics by nearly 70 percent since 1990, and have been linked to improved lung function and capacity in children. The draft strategy recommends building on, accelerating, and expanding existing state and local programs to improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions, including those related to sustainable freight, clean energy and improved forest management. Methane California already has measures in place to reduce methane from many of its sources, and is developing a comprehensive framework to minimize methane emissions from oil and gas systems. The draft strategy proposes achieving additional reductions through investments, incentives, regulations and other actions to capture value from organic waste streams in California that are responsible for about half of the state’s methane emissions. Renewable energy, compost and other products from organic waste streams could represent a billion dollar market for California, with much of the economic activity centralized in the Central Valley and rural parts of the state. To put these resources to good use, the strategy proposes a regulation to effectively eliminate the disposal of organics in landfills by 2025, and actions to cut methane emissions from dairy manure by 75 percent below current levels by 2030. Fluorinated gases Under AB 32, the State already has a program in place to address leaks from commercial refrigeration systems that will cut F-gas emissions by an estimated 25 percent in 2020 below otherwise expected levels. Additional steps are proposed in the strategy to accelerate the transition away from hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in new refrigeration, air conditioning equipment and by taking early actions to significantly reduce these gases from commercial refrigeration. International support is growing for an agreement in November to phase down the production and use of HFCs under the Montreal Protocol. Doing so would significantly curtail greenhouse gas emissions from the fastest growing source globally. If an agreement is not reached in November, California may develop its own phase down, as Europe and other countries already are doing. Significant Benefits Action on SLCPs is an integral part of global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and minimize the impacts of climate change. It can deliver immediate global climate and local health and economic benefits. "If more countries, states and cities took the same bold steps as California already has on black carbon, and intends to take on methane, we could cut global warming by half a degree Celsius in the next 20 years, save about 3 million lives annually, and cut global crop losses by about 50 million tonnes per year,” said Achim Steiner, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme. "We can scale up these kinds of actions through peer-to-peer support and partnerships such as the Climate and Clean Air Coalition." To view the draft Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy and additional information on SLCPs, visit http://bit.ly/SLclimatepollutants California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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 Oct 2015 12:14:33 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- California supports U.S. EPA action to strengthen national ozone standard From: jswanton@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/newsrelease.php?id=764 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-62 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov California supports U.S. EPA action to strengthen national ozone standard Just-released ARB strategy to control pollution from cars and trucks puts California on trajectory to meet new standard SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board supports the U.S. EPA’s decision today to strengthen the national ambient air quality standard for ground-level ozone pollution, bringing the national standard more in line with California’s 10-year-old standard. Strengthening the standard provides health, environmental and economic benefits for all of California. Science demonstrates that adverse health impacts continue to occur with the previous 8-hour average ozone standard level of 75 parts per billion. The U.S. EPA has now lowered the level of the standard to 70 ppb, making it more health protective. “We support using the most up-to-date science and recognize that even as the new ozone standard gets tougher to attain California will continue to make progress by employing cleaner technology and fuels,” ARB Chair Mary D. Nichols said. “The new standard will mean a reduction in premature mortality, hospitalizations, emergency room visits for asthma, and lost work and school days. This is especially critical in the South Coast and San Joaquin Valley, where nearly two-thirds of our state’s residents live, including large numbers of people who work outside and who have asthma and other chronic heart and lung diseases.” ARB’s control programs, together with efforts to reduce air pollution at the local and federal levels, have achieved tremendous success in reducing emissions and providing continued improvement in air quality. The South Coast and San Joaquin Valley are the nation’s only two air basins designated ‘extreme’ nonattainment. Further reductions are needed to meet the new standard -- and California’s air quality and climate goals. With a standard of 70 ppb, several rural counties likely will fall out of attainment, adding to the state’s existing 16 ozone nonattainment areas. New nonattainment areas are expected to include Amador, Tehama and Tuolumne counties and the Sutter Buttes area. One of several goals California must meet are the existing ambient ozone air quality standards in 2023 and 2031, which will require an estimated 80 percent reduction in oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions below current emission levels in the South Coast air basin, with substantial reductions needed in the San Joaquin Valley and other nonattainment areas of the state. New draft strategy released In a just-released discussion draft of the State’s strategy for its cars and trucks to meet federal air quality standards, the ARB outlines a proposed strategy that continues to build on previous efforts to meet critical air quality and climate goals over the next 15 years. Released Wednesday, the strategy provides a comprehensive foundation for the ongoing transformation of the state’s vehicle fleet putting California on a path to likely meet the new more health-protective federal ozone standard. The draft strategy (Discussion Draft Mobile Source Strategy. Available at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/planning/sip/2016sip/2016mobsrc.htm) is designed to provide public health protection for the millions of Californians who still breathe unhealthy air and to help California do its part to slow global warming and reduce its dependence on petroleum. In part, the proposed strategy would: • Establish requirements for cleaner technologies; • Ensure in-use performance over the lifetime of the vehicle; • Increase the penetration of zero-emission technologies for cars, trucks and off-road equipment; • Require cleaner-burning renewable fuels; • Enhance efficiencies in moving people and freight throughout California; and • Transform the state’s vehicle fleet using zero- and near-zero-emission technologies in order to help meet California’s air quality and climate change goals. National low-NOx standard urged Reducing emissions from heavy-duty trucks – significant contributors to emissions that form ozone -- is an important element of the mobile source strategy. ARB, therefore, urges U.S. EPA to adopt tighter national NOx emissions standards for on-road heavy-duty engines (fueled by either diesel or CNG). NOx, a product of incomplete combustion, contributes to the formation of not only ozone but also fine particle pollution (PM2.5), a serious health threat in California. ARB will develop new heavy-duty diesel engine emissions standards within the next several years, while simultaneously petitioning U.S. EPA to establish a corresponding national standard, in order to maximize emission reductions from all vehicles operating in California, regardless of whether they were purchased in a different state. Vehicles purchased outside of California account for one-third of the heavy-duty vehicle miles traveled in the state on any given day. For that reason, a lower NOx standard that reduces emissions from all trucks operating in California is critical to meeting future air quality goals and tackling this public health challenge. For more information on the new National Ambient Air Quality Standard for Ozone: ARB fact sheet: http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/new_ozone_std_factsheet.pdf USEPA fact Sheets: Working to Reduce Ozone in California: http://www3.epa.gov/ozonepollution/pdfs/20151001californiafs.pdf Final rule and associated materials: http://www3.epa.gov/ozonepollution/actions.html California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 8 Oct 2015 09:19:43 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- EPA, CARB to Hold Media Call to Announce First-Ever Federal Enforcement Action For Violations of the California Truck and Bus Regulation From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://1.usa.gov/1MhpjHk -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 8, 2015 CONTACT: Monica Lee, US EPA (415) 972-3165 lee.monica@epa.gov Karen Caesar, CARB (916) 322-2990 karen.caesar@arb.ca.gov EPA, CARB to Hold Media Call to Announce First-Ever Federal Enforcement Action For Violations of the California Truck and Bus Regulation LOS ANGELES – On Thursday, at 10:30 a.m. PST, U.S. EPA Regional Administrator Jared Blumenfeld will hold a press call to announce the results of the first-ever federal enforcement action for violations of the California Truck and Bus Regulation by Estes Express Lines, a national private trucking firm. The announcement will also highlight additional funding projects that will go to the University of California Davis Extension and the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District’s Burn Cleaner Incentive Program. WHO: Jared Blumenfeld, EPA Regional Administrator Todd Sax, Enforcement Division Chief, California Air Resources Board WHEN: Thursday, October 8, 2015 10:30 a.m. Pacific Standard Time WHAT: Media conference call HOW: Members of the media interested in participating should dial in fifteen minutes prior to the beginning of the call at 10:30 a.m. P/T. Please call (877) 887-8949 and give the conference ID number 57663426. You will be asked for your name, affiliation and email. The name of the call is “Estes Press Call”. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 8 Oct 2015 12:33:55 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- State Celebrates National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1JVoSMw -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 8, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-63 CONTACT: Melanie Turner, ARB (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov Linda Rapattoni, CEC 916) 654-4989 Linda.Rapattoni@energy.ca State Celebrates National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day California Leads the Way for Advanced Transportation Vehicles SACRAMENTO – California celebrates National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day today on the cusp of a transportation revolution that will lead to cleaner air and fewer greenhouse gas emissions as more drivers turn to zero-emission vehicles. The U.S. Senate has declared Thursday, Oct. 8, 2015, National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day, referencing hydrogen’s standard atomic weight of 1.008 and in recognition that hydrogen is an abundant source of fuel, as well as cleaner and more efficient than petroleum. California is a leader in developing and deploying hydrogen fuel cells for passenger vehicles, industrial vehicles and backup power for cell phone towers. “California has long supported hydrogen and fuel cells as a vital zero-emission technology,” California Air Resources Board (ARB) Chair Mary D. Nichols said. “Transit customers in the Bay Area and Coachella Valley have enjoyed clean, quiet and powerful hydrogen fuel cell electric buses for years. California companies operate more efficiently by using hydrogen fuel cell electric forklifts in warehouses. Marking the first National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day in 2015 is particularly appropriate as auto companies begin selling consumer fuel cell electric vehicles to Californians.” The California Energy Commission has provided funding for 49 retail hydrogen refueling stations anticipated to open over the next two years. “Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles are an important part of the portfolio of technologies and fuels the State is pursuing to address our ambitious climate and air quality goals,” said Janea A. Scott, the lead commissioner for transportation at the Energy Commission. “Through an Energy Commission program, the State is investing in an initial network of up to 100 hydrogen stations to provide the needed fueling infrastructure to support fuel-cell electric vehicles.” California’s investments in alternative fuel vehicles, like hydrogen fuel cell electric cars, are fueling the state’s economy and leading to cleaner air. “Hydrogen and fuel cells are poised to play a significant role in California’s economic growth well into the future,” said Panorea Avdis, chief deputy director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GOBiz). “Together, hydrogen and fuel cells demonstrate that improving our environment is good for business.” GOBiz provides vital assistance in the hydrogen fueling station permit process and helps station developers locate and expand in California. The California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Division of Measurement Standards (CDFA DMS) evaluates and tests new hydrogen dispensers for suitability and accuracy (see: http://bit.ly/1VHCN50), enabling retail stations to sell fuel to customers. CDFA DMS is also the agency responsible for providing fuel quality sampling and laboratory analysis, which ensures the best possible vehicle performance. “Instituting early marketplace oversight of hydrogen sold at retail will be a key component to successful consumer acceptance of this fuel,” said Kristin Macey, director of CDFA DMS. The ARB partners with transit agencies to advance the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell electric buses. AC Transit operates 12 fuel cell electric buses in the San Francisco East Bay Area, and SunLine Transit operates four fuel cell electric buses in the Coachella Valley. Fuel cell electric buses are poised to enter the commercial market in California with larger pilot projects that may compete for funding under the ARB’s Low Carbon Transportation Program. The ARB and the Energy Commission are founding members of the California Fuel Cell Partnership, a public-private collaboration committed to promoting fuel cell electric vehicle commercialization. The State also participates in H2USA, a public-private partnership to promote the commercial introduction and widespread adoption of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles across America. California participates in H2FIRST, an initiative of U.S. Department of Energy’s Fuel Cell Technologies Office within the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Sandia National Laboratory and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, to support customer-friendly fueling stations and advance hydrogen fueling technology for a commercial market. ### About the California Energy Commission The California Energy Commission is the state's primary energy policy and planning agency. The agency was established by the California Legislature through the Warren-Alquist Act in 1974. It has seven core responsibilities: advancing state energy policy, encouraging energy efficiency, certifying thermal power plants, investing in energy innovation, developing renewable energy, transforming transportation, and preparing for energy emergencies. About the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) GO-Biz was created by Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. to serve as California’s single point of contact for economic development and job creation efforts. GO-Biz offers a range of services to business owners including: attraction, retention and expansion services, site selection, permit streamlining, clearing of regulatory hurdles, small business assistance, international trade development, assistance with state government, and much more. About the Air Resources Board 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. About the California Department of Food and Agriculture The California Department of Food and Agriculture promotes and protects California’s food supply and environment, and it ensures fair and accurate commerce through oversight by its Division of Measurement Standards. California’s $54 billion agriculture industry leads the nation, providing nearly half of US-grown fruits, nuts and vegetables, and about 20 percent of its dairy products. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 8 Oct 2015 14:50:51 -0700 Subject: newsrel -- U.S. EPA holds trucking company accountable for failure to install emissions controls on its California fleet From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1LkyINk -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 8, 2015 CONTACT: Monica Lee, US EPA (415) 972-3165 lee.monica@epa.gov Karen Caesar, CARB (916) 322-2990 karen.caesar@arb.ca.gov U.S. EPA holds trucking company accountable for failure to install emissions controls on its California fleet First federal enforcement of California’s Truck and Bus Regulation SAN FRANCISCO—Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that Estes Express Lines will pay a $100,000 penalty for violations of the California Truck and Bus Regulation, for failing to install particulate filters on 73 of its heavy-duty diesel trucks (15% of its California fleet). In California, mobile sources of diesel emissions, such as trucks and construction equipment, are one of the largest sources of fine particulates. About 625,000 trucks operating in California are registered outside of the state, many are older models emitting particulates and nitrogen oxides (NOx). The California truck rules are the first of their kind in the nation and will prevent an estimated 3,500 deaths in California between 2010 – 2025. The California Truck and Bus Regulation was adopted into federal Clean Air Act plan requirements in 2012 and apply to privately-owned diesel trucks and buses. The rule also requires any trucking company to ensure their subcontractors are only using compliant trucks, and requires companies to upgrade their vehicles to meet specific NOx and PM2.5 performance standards in California. Heavy-duty diesel trucks in California must meet 2010 engine emissions levels or use diesel particulate filters, which can reduce the emissions of diesel particulate into the atmosphere by 85% or more. “Trucks represent one of the largest sources of air pollution in California, and the state has the worst air quality in the nation,” said Jared Blumenfeld, EPA’s Regional Administrator for the Pacific Southwest. “EPA’s enforcement efforts are aimed at ensuring all truck fleets operating in California are in compliance with pollution laws.” “ARB’s partnership to enforce our clean truck and bus regulation with our partners at EPA is vitally important to us,” said ARB Chair Mary D. Nichols. “It helps bring vehicles that are operating illegally into compliance, and levels the playing field for those who have already met the requirements.” In addition to the penalty, Estes will spend $290,400 towards projects to educate the out-of-state trucking industry on the regulation and for replacing old wood burning devices in the San Joaquin Valley. Estes will pay $35,000 to the University of California Davis Extension to implement a state-approved training program for out-of-state trucking firms on compliance with the rule. Estes will also pay $255,400 to the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District’s Burn Cleaner Incentive Program that will be used to replace 80 or more wood-burning devices with cleaner ones. Estes is a large, private, for-hire trucking firm based in Virginia that owns and operates diesel-fueled vehicles in all 50 states. In February 2015, EPA issued a Notice of Violation to Estes after EPA’s investigation found that the company failed to equip its heavy-duty diesel vehicles with particulate filters and failed to verify compliance with the Truck and Bus Regulation for its hired motor carriers. Estes now operates only new trucks in California. Fine particle pollution can be emitted directly or formed secondarily in the atmosphere and can penetrate deep into the lungs and worsen conditions such as asthma and heart disease. For more information on the Truck and Bus Rule, please visit: http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/onrdiesel/regulation.htm For more information on the Clean Air Act, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/airprogm/oar/caa/ California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 2 Nov 2015 10:45:26 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Air Resources Board notifies Volkswagen about additional diesel engine violations From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1McBAw9 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 2, 2015 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov Air Resources Board notifies Volkswagen about additional diesel engine violations Letter sent about defeat devices on cars, SUVs with 3-liter diesel engines SACRAMENTO - Today the California Air Resources Board issued an In-Use Compliance letter to the Volkswagen Group about recent testing that yielded evidence of defeat devices related to the emissions control technology in cars and SUVs that use a 3.0 liter diesel engine. The vehicles involved in this letter are the 2014 VW Touareg, the 2015 Porsche Cayenne, and the 2016 Audi A6 Quattro, A8, A8L and Q5. The U.S. EPA also issued a Notice of Violation today about the presence of a defeat device in these same models. The ARB In-Use Compliance letter can be found here: http://bit.ly/20o6S9t The U.S. EPA Notice of Violation is here: http://1.usa.gov/1RpxHnR A U.S. EPA Q&A is here: http://1.usa.gov/1MtgIMZ California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 4 Nov 2015 09:43:58 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- First California cap-and-trade compliance period ends with 99 percent compliance From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1l7RZIm -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 4, 2015 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov First California cap-and-trade compliance period ends with 99 percent compliance Covered emissions more than 290 million metric tons in first two years of program SACRAMENTO — The Air Resources Board today announced a 99 percent compliance rate by covered industries for the first compliance period of California’s cap-and-trade program. Cap-and-trade is one of several groundbreaking greenhouse gas emissions reduction programs begun under the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32). “We are pleased and proud that California is showing the world how to make cap-and-trade work to reduce pollution and create jobs,” said Air Resources Board Chair Mary D. Nichols. AB 32 sets the goal of reducing emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse pollutants by 2020 back to 1990 levels. The AB 32 programs will also serve as tools to help California reach Governor Brown’s midterm emissions target of an additional 40 percent reduction by 2030, and then 80 percent by 2050. Total covered emissions in the first compliance period equal approximately 290.7 million metric tons. The cap-and-trade program has three compliance periods under the current design. The latest report covers the first two years, 2013 and 2014. The next two compliance periods are three years each, with the second period running from 2015 to 2017 and the third period covering 2018 to 2020. The first period does not include emissions from transportation fuels. Cap-and-trade covers emissions from utility and industrial facilities which annually emit more than 25,000 metric tons of carbon and entities that choose to opt in to the program. Those facilities must purchase either state carbon allowances or ARB-approved carbon offsets to account for their annual emissions under the annual emissions cap. The cap is reduced annually until the 2020 target is reached. Each allowance or offset is equal to one metric ton of carbon dioxide. The August auction settlement allowance price was $12.52 per ton. Carbon allowances are sold at quarterly, state-managed auctions. Carbon offsets can be purchased on the open market. Covered parties may use offsets to cover up to eight percent of their compliance obligation. Offsets are emission reductions in sectors not covered by cap-and-trade. They cost somewhat less than allowances and can be used as a cost-control measure. California’s next carbon allowance auction is scheduled for November 17, 2015. The auction notice and attachments can be viewed here: http://bit.ly/1NrRzHD California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 20 Nov 2015 10:08:18 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Statement from CARB on defeat devices on 3-liter VW, Audi diesel engines From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following statement from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1N081OS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 20, 2015 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov Statement from CARB on defeat devices on 3-liter VW, Audi diesel engines SACRAMENTO - On November 2, 2015, ARB issued to Volkswagen AG, Audi AG, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc., Porsche AG and Porsche Cars North America an In Use Compliance Letter addressing concerns over test results for 2014, 2015, and 2016 vehicles with 3.0 liter diesel engines, alleging that these model years included defeat devices. On the same day EPA issued a Notice of Violation to these same parties. During a meeting yesterday, VW and Audi officials responded to those concerns and told EPA and CARB that the issues raised in the In-Use Compliance letter extend to all 3.0 liter diesel engines from model years 2009 through 2016. Based on this information, EPA and CARB will continue to investigate and take all appropriate action under their respective authorities. California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 20 Nov 2015 16:12:26 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- UPDATE: Volkswagen submits recall plan for 2-liter diesel cars to California Air Resources Board From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1Mt3jYq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 20, 2015 CONTACT: Stanley Young (916) 956-9409 stanley.young@arb.ca.gov UPDATE: Volkswagen submits recall plan for 2-liter diesel cars to California Air Resources Board SACRAMENTO - Today the Volkswagen Group of America (VW) submitted a recall plan to the California Air Resources Board responding to the violations described in ARB’s September 18, 2015 letter (available here: http://bit.ly/1MZmxlz) to VW concerning illegal defeat devices in their 2-liter diesel-powered vehicles, model years 2009-2015. This submission initiates a review by ARB of up to 20 business days of all elements of the plan. Based on ARB’s review, VW may be required to revise and resubmit all, or specific elements of the recall plan. ARB will also consult with U.S. EPA during this process to develop a national recall plan. Required elements of a recall plan include, but are not limited to, the projected timeline of the full recall process from initiation to completion (including how owners are located), the content of a company’s communications with them about the recall, and a plan for following up on the progress of the recall campaign. The recall plan must set out the projected time to fix each vehicle. The remedy proposed in the recall must not only fix the violation in question, it must also address the safety, drivability, vehicle durability and fuel efficiency of the cars involved. Detailed Legal Requirements: The required elements for an approvable recall plan are detailed in the California Code of Regulations (13 CCR 2113-2121 and 40 CFR §85.1803) and include but are not limited to: a. The description of the vehicles and affected California and U.S. population b. Description of the nonconformity and the specific recalibration and hardware corrective actions to return the vehicles to the certified configuration (i.e., no defeat device and emission compliant) c. A description of the method by which the manufacturer will determine the names and addresses of vehicle owners and the method for notifying the service facilities and vehicle owners of the recall d. A description of the procedure to be followed by the vehicle owner to obtain correction. This shall include the date on or after which the owner can have the nonconformity remedied, the time reasonably necessary to perform the labor, and the designation of the facilities that can perform the work e. A copy of the owner’s notification letter f. A description of the system by which the manufacturer will assure adequate supply of parts g. A copy of all instructions that will be sent to those performing the repair h. A description of the impact of the proposed repairs or adjustments on fuel economy, drivability, performance and safety of each vehicle recalled and a brief summary of the data, technical studies, or engineering evaluations which support the data i. The estimate of the capture rate from the proposed recall and registration tracking of repaired and unrepaired Vehicle Identification Numbers at the DMV. j. A description of the impact of the proposed changes on the average emissions from the vehicle to be recalled. The description shall include: i. Average noncompliance emission levels ii. Average emission reduction per pollutant from the recall repair iii. An estimate of the average emission level per pollutant for the vehicle adjusted for the capture rate k. A repair label shall be affixed to each vehicle that is corrected per the approved recall plan (13 CCR 2116) l. A description of the impact of the proposed changes on the On Board Diagnostic (OBD) system performance on the vehicle to be recalled. The description shall include: i. OBD demonstration testing for all major monitors ii. Identification and disclosure of all OBD monitoring requirements that are not met in the recall calibration m. The manufacturer shall require those who perform the repair to provide the owner for each vehicle or engine with a certificate indicating that a noncomplying vehicle or engine has been corrected under the recall program (13 CCR 2117) n. The manufacturer shall report on the progress of the recall campaign by submitting subsequent reports for six consecutive quarters commencing with the quarter after the recall campaign begins. Such reports shall be submitted no later than 25 days after the close of each calendar quarter (13 CCR 2119) California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 23 Nov 2015 12:02:33 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Hospital admissions drop and air quality improves with fireplace, wood burning restrictions From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1Xm8sV5 Versión en español disponible en: http://bit.ly/21cGoZ5 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 23, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-71 CONTACT: Melanie Turner (916) 322-2990 melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov Hospital admissions drop and air quality improves with fireplace, wood burning restrictions California Air Resources Board study shows San Joaquin Valley hospital admissions reduced for adults age 65 and older SACRAMENTO – Reductions in both fine particulate pollution (PM2.5) and cardiovascular hospitalizations were seen in the San Joaquin Valley after a ‘Check-Before-You-Burn’ regulation was fully implemented in that air basin, Air Resources Board research has found. ARB’s research examined the effectiveness of San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District Rule 4901, fully implemented in 2003, at reducing PM2.5 and cardiovascular hospitalizations in the valley air basin. During winter, PM2.5 is a health problem in the San Joaquin Valley – and many parts of California. Wood burning regulations, like Rule 4901, are in effect in many air districts during the burn season from Nov. 1 through February to reduce emissions of PM2.5 and carbon monoxide from residential wood burning. Cold and still winter weather can cause wood smoke pollution to become trapped close to the ground and build up to unhealthy levels, triggering air district rules that curtail residential wood burning to protect public health. “ARB’s research provides evidence that these ‘check-before-you-burn’ programs, combined with public education, are helping to reduce harmful wintertime air pollution and protect public health,” Chair Mary D. Nichols said. The San Joaquin Valley’s Rule 4901 requires mandatory curtailment of residential wood burning when air quality is forecast to be poor – an air quality index of 150 or greater during the wood burning season. The ARB study found that after the implementation of the wood burning regulation in the San Joaquin Valley in the winter: • PM2.5 was reduced by 12% basin-wide and by 11% and 15% in rural and urban regions of the basin, respectively. • Larger, coarse particulate matter was reduced 8% basin-wide and in rural (7%) and urban (11%) areas of the basin. • The number of hospital admissions for all types of cardiovascular disease in adults 65 and older dropped by 7% basin-wide. In addition, hospitalizations for ischemic heart disease, a specific type of cardiovascular disease often known as coronary artery disease, dropped by 16% basin-wide. Reductions in rural areas were even higher for both categories of hospital admissions. The San Joaquin Valley historically has had some of the worst air quality in the nation, and solid fuel combustion – burning wood, manufactured logs and pellets in fireplaces and wood stoves -- has been identified as the largest individual source of particulate matter during winter months. Emitted when solid fuels, such as wood, are burned, PM2.5 can penetrate deep into the lungs and have been linked to serious health impacts. Health studies have found that long-term exposure to PM2.5 can be linked to premature death from heart and lung diseases and reduced lung function growth in children. The San Joaquin Valley needs to address all major sources of pollution to meet federal health-based air quality goals and therefore must continue to address the problem of residential wood burning. It is estimated that wood burning in the valley contributes to 16 tons per day of smoke, soot and ash. Besides the San Joaquin Valley, other air districts also have wood burning rules. In fact, neighboring Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (all of Sacramento County) in recent years achieved the federal PM2.5 standard due in large part to emissions reductions from the public’s compliance with its Check Before You Burn program. The largest air districts, South Coast, Bay Area and Sacramento Metro, in addition to the San Joaquin Valley, all have mandatory no-burn restrictions during the winter months. Other districts have voluntary programs. For more information about ARB’s research paper, visit: http://ajph.aphapublications.org/doi/pdf/10.2105/AJPH.2014.302360 For information on air district wood-burning rules, see FAQs: • San Joaquin Valley (http://valleyair.org/rule4901/documents/FAQ-Rule4901.pdf), • South Coast (http://www.aqmd.gov/healthyhearths/faq), • Sacramento Metro (http://www.sparetheair.com/publications/CBYB_FAQ_English_2014.pdf) and • Bay Area (http://www.sparetheair.org/make-a-difference/spare-the-air-every-day/winter/winter-spare-the-air-faqs). For additional information, see the California Air Resources Board Wood Burning Handbook: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/wood_burning_handbook.pdf California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 24 Nov 2015 12:57:47 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- California and Quebec release results for fifth joint cap-and-trade auction From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1IevHJM -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 24, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-72 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov California and Quebec release results for fifth joint cap-and-trade auction SACRAMENTO—Today at noon (PST), California and Quebec released the results of the November 17, 2015 joint cap-and-trade auction of carbon allowances. The final numbers include sales figures and settlement prices for 2015 and 2018 vintages. 2015 Vintage Number offered: 75,113,008 Number sold: 75,113,008 Settlement Price: $12.73 2018 Vintage Number offered: 10,431,500 Number sold: 10,431,500 Settlement Price: $12.65 For more detailed results on the auction, including maximum and minimum bids placed, please go to: www.arb.ca.gov/auction California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 25 Nov 2015 10:23:53 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- UPDATE: Air Resources Board orders Volkswagen, Audi & Porsche to draft recall plan for 3.0 liter vehicles From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1SkDj3e -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 25, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-73 CONTACT: Dave Clegern (916) 322-2990 dave.clegern@arb.ca.gov UPDATE: Air Resources Board orders Volkswagen, Audi & Porsche to draft recall plan for 3.0 liter vehicles SACRAMENTO — The Air Resources Board today sent an In Use Compliance letter notifying Volkswagen, Audi and Porsche to start the process necessary to recall and repair illegal emissions software in all 3-liter diesel vehicles, model years 2009 – 2015, sold in California. The companies will now have 45 business days to assemble their plan and deliver it to the Air Resources Board. This action is the result of an admission by officials at Audi A.G., manufacturer of all the engines involved, that the vehicles contain three auxiliary emissions control devices. The letter to Volkswagen can be found here: http://bit.ly/1OgKgDd California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 11 Dec 2015 11:45:03 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- Carbon monoxide can be a silent killer From: dchelini@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1jTryox Versión en español disponible en: http://bit.ly/1SSyP49 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 11, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-74 CONTACT: Pamela Diaz (916) 322-2990 pamela.diaz@arb.ca.gov Carbon monoxide can be a silent killer Replace batteries annually in carbon monoxide alarms and detectors SACRAMENTO - Carbon monoxide is a silent killer and having a working carbon monoxide detector is a small investment that can help save lives. The California Air Resources Board (ARB) urges residents to guard against carbon monoxide poisoning by installing a carbon monoxide detector and replacing batteries annually. Californians are also urged to have gas appliances inspected annually to ensure they are working properly. More than half of all carbon monoxide poisoning deaths result from malfunctioning or improperly vented gas appliances in homes. The others come from a variety of combustion sources including: charcoal grills, automobile exhausts, space heaters, generators and fireplaces. Carbon monoxide poisoning can strike wherever combustion occurs in enclosed areas, including: homes, recreational vehicles, cabins, tents and houseboats. Vigilance is the key to avoiding tragedy. The State of California requires by law that every home with an attached garage, a fireplace or an appliance that burns kerosene, propane, heating oil, natural gas, etc., have an operational carbon-monoxide detector or alarm installed. Since the beginning of 2015, California law also requires community care facilities, including residential care facilities for the elderly and infirm, and public and family day care centers, to have at least one functioning carbon monoxide detector. “Carbon monoxide deaths are preventable,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “Having the required alarms working properly and your gas appliances inspected are simple steps that will protect you and your family.” Accidental deaths occur each year from carbon monoxide poisoning and several hundred Californians go to emergency rooms due to non-lethal exposures. Carbon monoxide inhibits the blood’s ability to carry oxygen to body tissues including vital organs such as the heart and brain. It is especially dangerous for young children and individuals with heart disease. Warning signs of exposure include headache, drowsiness, nausea and inability to concentrate; any person experiencing these symptoms should be immediately moved to a location with fresh air and be seen by a doctor in case treatment is needed. ARB recommends the following: • Properly use and maintain appliances that produce a flame such as gas stoves, ovens, furnaces and heaters; • Never use gas ovens to heat the home; • Never use kerosene and propane space heaters, charcoal grills, barbecues, or unvented gas logs indoors; • 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 State Fire Marshal approved carbon monoxide detectors that sound an alarm; • Place emergency generators outdoors away from windows and doors to prevent fumes from entering the home; and, • Be especially careful with appliances in recreational vehicles, cabins and houseboats, and use carbon monoxide detectors specifically made for these locations. In addition, do not idle vehicles or operate other combustion engines, such as diesel generators, in attached garages or other enclosed spaces. Carbon monoxide poisoning deaths are often the result of accidental exposure from vehicles running in closed garages. For more information on indoor combustion pollutants and indoor air quality guidelines, visit: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/combustion.htm • For additional information on carbon monoxide and carbon monoxide detectors, visit: http://www.fire.ca.gov/communications/communications_firesafety_carbonmonoxide • For a list of State Fire Marshal approved carbon monoxide detectors, visit: http://osfm.fire.ca.gov/strucfireengineer/pdf/bml/List_CSFM_Approved.pdf • For information on California Building and Residential Codes, visit: http://www.hcd.ca.gov/codes/state-housing-law/information-bulletins/ib2011-01.pdf • To request or schedule an inspection of your gas appliances – which may be free of cost – contact your local gas company. o PG&E: 1-800-743-5000 www.pge.com o Southern California Gas and Electric Company: 1-800-427-2200 www.socalgas.com o San Diego Gas and Electric Company: 1-800-411-7343 www.sdge.com VIDEO: Carbon Monoxide - The Silent Killer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2EmrJNKXqh8 California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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, 18 Dec 2015 14:05:15 -0800 Subject: newsrel -- UPDATE: CARB sends VW letter on proposed recall plan From: lbuckley@arb.ca.gov Please consider the following news release from the California Air Resources Board: http://bit.ly/1JhA1IP -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 18, 2015 NEWS RELEASE 15-75 CONTACT: Stanley Young (916) 322-2990 stanley.young@arb.ca.gov UPDATE: CARB sends VW letter on proposed recall plan CARB to act on or before January 14, 2016 SACRAMENTO - As the result of submissions by VW over the past week, CARB sent VW America a letter indicating that it would act on the proposed recall plan on or before January 14, 2016. The letter follows below, and can be found at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/vw_info/vw_diesel_info.htm ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ December 18, 2015 David Geanacopoulos Executive Vice President Public Affairs and General Counsel Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. 2200 Ferdinand Porsche Drive Herndon, Virginia 20171 David.Geanacopoulos@vw.com Subject: Volkswagen 2.0 L Recall Plan Submission Dear Mr. Geanacopoulos: As a result of Volkswagen Group of America’s (VW) continued submission of additional significant information and data to the California Air Resources Board (CARB) as part of VW’s proposed 2.0L influenced emission recall plan (Title 13, Cal. Code Regs. § 2113) --- including information VW submitted in writing on December 14, 2015, and verbally as recently as December 16, 2015 --- CARB plans to act on your proposed 2.0L influenced emission recall plan on or before January 14, 2016. Mr. Stuart Johnson, on behalf of VW, discussed this issue with me earlier this week. Please confirm in writing to me, no later than noon Pacific Time, Monday, December 21, 2015, that VW has no objection to CARB’s planned response date of on or before January 14, 2016. As you know, VW submitted a December 15, 2015, request for an extension to submit VW’s supplemental, proposed 2.0L influenced emission recall plan to CARB. CARB will also respond to this extension request on or before January 14, 2016. If you have any questions, I can be reached at (626) 450-6150. Sincerely, Annette Hebert, Chief Emissions Compliance, Automotive Regulations, and Science Division California is in a drought emergency. Visit www.SaveOurH2O.org for water conservation tips. ====================================================================== 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. ======================================================================