AWC Takes Multi-Prong Approach to PM NAAQS

AWC is pursuing a multi-prong strategy to address the 2024 fine particulate matter (PM) National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), a standard the industry views as unachievable for many rural manufacturing facilities. As part of a coalition, AWC challenged the 2024 PM NAAQS, and coalition briefs to the D.C. Circuit Court persuaded the Trump Department of Justice (DOJ) to ask for vacatur of the rule based on procedural errors in EPA’s issuance. A decision on the vacatur is expected in 2026, a ruling that could reset the regulatory landscape for PM compliance.

While the court challenge and DOJ work is ongoing, AWC has been working with both the EPA and Congress on ways to modernize the air permitting program to account for variability of emissions and operations, as well as account for where people spend time around facilities. The suggestions are consistent with the Administration’s permitting improvement priorities and are modest and doable. AWC and its coalition partners will continue to advocate for these (and other) improvements to make the permitting process more realistic and efficient so mills can invest in new technologies and continue producing vital wood products.