EPA Backs California Standards for VOC Content

LOS ANGELES—Stricter limits set by California for volatile organic compounds in consumer-grade paint thinners, solvents, and air fresheners meet Clean Air Act standards, according to a proposed rule the Environmental Protection Agency is scheduled to publish Oct. 6. The California Air Resources Board adopted the consumer products measure two years ago but submitted it for EPA approval in January (33 CRR 941, 9/28/09). When fully implemented in 2014, the CARB rule is expected to reduce the ozone-forming volatile organic compound emissions by 14.7 tons a day. Separately, EPA is proposing to approve revisions to two San Joaquin Valley ...