Breaking News: New Proposed Lime Kiln Standards Aim to Enhance Environmental Protection

Lime manufacturing is a crucial industry that supplies materials vital for various sectors, from construction to agriculture. However, like any industrial process, lime production can generate emissions that pose environmental and health risks.

In response to this concern, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced newly proposed standards for lime kiln operations, aiming to mitigate emissions of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) and bolster environmental protection efforts.

What’s at Stake?

Lime manufacturing plants, encompassing facilities engaged in the production of lime products through the calcination of limestone, dolomite, shells, or other calcareous substances, have been identified as a significant source of emissions. These emissions include pollutants such as mercury, hydrochloric acid (HCl), organic HAPs, and dioxins/furans (D/F), which can have detrimental effects on air quality and public health.

Proposed Amendments

The proposed amendments to the Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) standards represent a proactive approach by the EPA to address these concerns comprehensively. The key highlights of the proposed standards include:

1. Inclusion of an IQV in Mercury Emission Limits: By incorporating an Individual Quota Variability (IQV) in mercury emission limits, the EPA aims to ensure more effective control over mercury emissions, thus reducing potential environmental contamination and associated health risks.
2. Aggregate Organic HAP Emission Limit: Introducing an aggregate limit for organic HAP emissions provides a unified and stringent control measure to mitigate the release of these harmful pollutants, contributing to improved air quality and community well-being.
3. Consideration of Health-Based Standard for HCl: Recognizing the potential health implications of hydrochloric acid emissions, the EPA is seeking public input on establishing a health-based standard for HCl. This proactive measure underscores the agency’s commitment to prioritizing public health protection in its regulatory actions.
4. Absence of Work Practice Standard for D/F: Due to insufficient data, the EPA has determined that a work practice standard for dioxins and furans (D/F) is not currently feasible. However, ongoing research and data collection efforts will inform future regulatory decisions in this area.

Our Recommended Next Steps

As part of our commitment to facilitating compliance with the proposed standards, we encourage stakeholders to take proactive steps, including:

• Engaging with Air Testing Experts: Connect with our team of air testing experts to receive custom recommendations tailored to your specific operational needs. By leveraging specialized expertise, you can streamline the compliance process and ensure adherence to regulatory requirements effectively.
• Ensuring Timely Compliance: It is imperative for both existing and new sources to prepare for compliance with the proposed standards. New sources are required to demonstrate initial compliance within 180 days after start-up, while existing sources must achieve initial compliance within three years after the final rule’s promulgation.

Looking for more information?

Download a copy of the rule notice on the EPA website.

View the final action and other background information on the EPA’s electronic public docket and comment system.