Landscape Architect Articles

EPA New Rules Come Under Fire12-28-06 | News

EPA New Rules Come Under Fire

The EPA is facing criticism because of the Dec. 18 final ruling that will make it easier for companies to be eligible to use a shorter, less-detailed reporting form ?EUR??,,????'??? known as ?EUR??,,????'??Form A.?EUR??,,????'?? Furthermore, for the first time in TRI?EUR??,,????'???s history, it will allow some companies that handle persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) chemicals to use Form A.

The EPA hails its Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) final rule as an incentive for businesses to use ?EUR??,,????'??preferred waste management methods?EUR??,,????'?? such as recycling.

However, the advocacy group OMB Watch believes that the agency’s rule failed to take into consideration the complaints expressed during a public comment period that the new rules:

?EUR??,,????'???? Would hinder the ability of government agencies and communities to protect the environment and public health and safety;
?EUR??,,????'???? Would reduce public health professionals?EUR??,,????'??? ability to diagnose diseases related to toxic chemicals, including many environmentally caused cancers; and
?EUR??,,????'???? Offer no significant burden relief or financial savings for companies that are required to report to TRI.