Search Results for keywords:"environmental protection"

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized a rule under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) requiring manufacturers to submit unpublished health and safety studies on 16 specific chemicals. This rule, effective January 13, 2025, aims to collect important data to help the EPA understand potential risks associated with these chemicals and manage them appropriately under TSCA guidelines, especially for prioritization and risk evaluation purposes. The rule includes details on which studies need to be reported, exemptions, and how to submit the information; it is intended to address market failures by ensuring the EPA can make informed decisions based on actual data rather than assumptions.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reviewed a petition requesting testing of 54 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) produced by Chemours Company in North Carolina. The petition, submitted by several health and environmental groups, also asked for a National Academy of Sciences panel to oversee the testing. After considering the information, EPA denied the request, stating that the petition didn't provide enough specific facts to warrant a new rule or order under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). EPA highlighted ongoing actions and research addressing PFAS risks and noted that some existing projects may already cover the requested testing.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has reviewed the application for a new license for the Chittenden Falls Hydroelectric Project in New York and prepared an Environmental Assessment (EA). The analysis concluded that, with appropriate environmental protections, the project will not significantly impact the environment. FERC is seeking public comments on the EA within 45 days of this notice, with a preference for electronic submissions via their eFiling system. People can view the EA online and register for updates on this project through FERC's website.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to approve Pennsylvania's state implementation plan to maintain air quality standards for ozone in the York-Adams area. This plan, submitted by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, aims to uphold the 1997 standard for ozone until 2028, ensuring the region does not exceed limits set for air pollutants. The plan includes specific actions Pennsylvania will take to monitor and manage ozone levels, as well as steps to quickly address any potential violations. Public comments on this proposal are welcomed before final approval.

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) of the Interior Department is requesting public comments on renewing a collection of information regarding coal exploration activities. This request aims to gather input on the necessity, timeliness, accuracy, and potential improvements of this information collection. The process affects state governments and mine permittees, requiring them to comply with federal environmental protection standards in coal exploration. Public comments are invited by March 16, 2021, and those submitted will be part of the public record.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to approve a plan from Pennsylvania to maintain air quality standards for ozone in Erie County. This plan ensures Erie County stays within the safe limits for ozone levels specified by the 1997 standards for an additional 10 years, up until 2027. The EPA is open to public comments on this proposal until March 11, 2021. The plan includes measures such as emissions inventories, maintaining air quality monitoring, and a commitment to take action if ozone levels rise.

The National Park Service has finalized new regulations for motor vehicle use in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. These rules update the use of off-road vehicles (ORVs), including prohibiting certain vehicles from using specific roads to protect natural resources, cultural features, and improve visitor experiences. The regulations also address issues like lake access, by requiring closures of specific areas below certain water levels, and establish longer quiet hours in designated areas to reduce noise pollution. The rules result from settlements over previous legal challenges, aiming to balance recreation and conservation efforts in the park.

The New England Hydropower Company, LLC has filed an application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for a license to develop the Ashton Dam Hydroelectric Project on the Blackstone River in Rhode Island. The project will include modifying and adding structures to generate about 793 kW of power, as well as facilities for fish passage and measures to protect the environment. The public and interested agencies are invited to submit study requests or requests to cooperate on the environmental document by March 22, 2025, with the project following a procedural schedule that includes assessments and issuing of necessary documents throughout 2025. For more information or to get involved, individuals can contact FERC or visit their website.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is starting the process to prioritize five chemical substances as High-Priority Substances for risk evaluation under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). These chemicals are 4-Tert-Octylphenol, Benzene, Ethylbenzene, Naphthalene, and Styrene. The EPA is looking for public comments and information about these chemicals over a 90-day period, which ends on March 18, 2025. The agency is also seeking information about other chemicals considered but not selected for this round of prioritization to ensure a thorough evaluation of potential risks.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has made available a notice about the weekly receipt of Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) for a period ending on January 4, 2021. According to Section 309(a) of the Clean Air Act, the EPA is required to make its comments on EISs from other federal agencies public. One such draft EIS mentioned is for the South Fork Wind Farm and South Fork Export Cable Project, with comments open until February 22, 2021. Cindy S. Barger from the Office of Federal Activities is directing this process.