EPA Proposes to Slash Mercury Emissions from Cement Plants

(Washington, D.C.  April 21, 2009) EPA is proposing to significantly
reduce mercury emissions from Portland cement kilns, the fourth-largest
source of mercury air emissions in the U.S. The proposal would set the
nations first limits on mercury emissions from existing Portland cement
kilns and would strengthen the limits for new kilns.

The proposed standards also would set emission limits for total
hydrocarbons, particulate matter, and sulfur dioxide from cement kilns
of all sizes, and would reduce hydrochloric acid emissions from kilns
that are large emitters.

We can save more than a thousand lives each year, sharply reduce
mercury and other toxins in our air and water, and work with industry to
encourage innovations and good ideas that are already out there, said
EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. Mercury and other chemicals flowing
into these communities are health hazards for children, pregnant
mothers, local residents and workers - people who deserve protection.

Mercury in the air eventually deposits into water, where it changes into
methylmercury, a highly toxic form that builds up in fish. Americans are
primarily exposed to mercury by eating contaminated fish. Because the
developing fetus is the most sensitive to the toxic effects of
methylmercury, women of childbearing age and children are regarded as
the population of greatest concern.

The majority of the toxic emissions at cement kilns come from the
burning of fuels and heating of raw materials. When fully implemented in
2013, EPA estimates that this rule would reduce annual emissions by at
least:

       Mercury  11,600 pounds, a reduction of 81 percent
       Total hydrocarbons  11,700 tons, or 75 percent
       Particulate matter  10,500 tons, or 96 percent
       Hydrochloric acid  2,800 tons, or 94 percent
       Sulfur dioxide  160,000 tons, or 90 percent

EPA estimates the benefits of this proposed rule will significantly
outweigh costs.

The proposal is in response to a request to reconsider the December 2006
emissions standards for Portland cement manufacturing facilities.

EPA will take public comments on the proposal for 60 days after
publication in the Federal Register. EPA will hold a public hearing on
the proposal if one is requested. Hearing requests must be received
within 15 days of publication in the Federal Register.

More information: http://www.epa.gov/ttn/oarpg/t3pfpr.html