Beginning January 2, 2011, owners of factories, utilities and other companies will be expected to follow stricter emission standards before they can operate. The new standards require companies to use the “best available control technology” to limit greenhouse gas emissions. The specific technology, however, has yet to be outlined by the EPA.
According to the EPA spokeswomen, Enesta Jones, there is a reason for the undefined regulation.
“There is no set answer and no set amount of emissions reductions or standard,” said Jones. “It is a case-by-case determination that is made by the permitting authority — usually a state or local environmental agency.”
The EPA feels this will give more flexibility to local environmental agencies to determine the best protocol for their area; however, others feel this is a mandate without any guidelines for compliance.
Without any specific details how can companies ensure they are in full compliance? How can they prevent a legal battle? What do you think?