March ’22 at-a-glance … environment

EPA proposes new heavy-duty vehicle emission standards

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed more stringent standards to reduce emissions from commercial-delivery trucks and short-haul tractors beginning with model year 2027. Vehicles covered include categories where electrification is advancing at a more rapid pace. EPA also proposed setting new greenhouse gas emission (GHG) standards for heavy-duty vehicles as soon as model year 2030 to achieve the long-term goal of zero emissions. “This could have an indirect effect on delivery cost to or from NAFEM members and service agencies, adding additional challenges to the supply chain,” said Charlie Souhrada, CFSP, NAFEM vice president of regulatory and technical affairs.

NAFEM continues to work toward addressing Quebec recycling/reclamation law

NAFEM continues to work with an industry coalition on Quebec’s recycling/reclamation legislation. The business coalition, comprised mainly of Canadian companies, is working with legal counsel to identify how best to establish the required Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO). Additional information will be provided as available. For more information on extended producer responsibility, see the Regulations section of Advocacy Update.

EPA to further engage Science Advisory Board in proposed rulemakings

The EPA is implementing a new process to have its Science Advisory Board (SAB) assess the science that informs the agency’s proposed rules. Doing so will best allow EPA to benefit from the board’s expert advice. “EPA must adhere to the highest standards of scientific integrity and support stronger, independent, peer-reviewed science,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan.