Recent actions by the EPA to deal with nationwide and regional air pollution problems will help, but we don't think they will be enough. One recent EPA action involves a new regional haze rule implemented in July 1999. The regulation also requires states to reduce any effect of pollution on visibility in 156 national parks. It mandates that states restore complete visibility at a rate 15 percent per decade over a 60-year period. As part of the EPA's Regional Haze Rule, the Western Regional Air Partnership, a planning group for the western states, recently released its proposal to reduce air pollution from large industrial sources such as coal-fired power plants.
WRAP proposes to set a limit on sulfur dioxide emissions.
The group estimates sulfur dioxide emissions at 652,000 tons. The Grand Canyon Trust says the WRAP proposal is weak and ineffectual. NPS officials say they are taking their own steps to curb air pollution in parks and wilderness areas, but that they need the help of the EPA and state agencies to make a major difference. Recipients should seek permission to reprint the article from the source listed above. Reading on line, downloading or other use of this information signifies acceptance of these conditions, and the Full Disclaimer.