Development of these standards begins with an assessment of the emission reductions already being achieved by the top 12% of the best-controlled facilities within each coating category. The emission limitations will, at a minimum, reflect the average performance of these top facilities. Because any required measures will reflect the best level of control currently being achieved, the rules are referred to as maximum achievable control technology (MACT) standards.
“We want to minimize the potential regulatory burden on small businesses,” said Dianne Byrne, Group Leader for EPA’s Coatings and Consumer Products Group. “Because of the potential burden, we are trying to reach as many of the affected entities as possible to make them aware of our regulations and encourage them to provide comments.”