For those who want to make their opinions about the dangers of coal ash in our environment known to the EPA, here is the pertinent info. This may seem too wonky for most readers, but it’s really a big deal that the EPA is even considering designating coal ash as hazardous waste. What’s in a name? “Hazardous” means a whole different list of rules will have to be followed.
Below the fold are links to letters from our Missouri officials opposed to the new designation.
EPA announced May 4, 2010, that it is proposing to regulate for the first time coal ash to address the risks from the disposal of the wastes generated by electric utilities and independent power producers. EPA is considering two possible options for the management of coal ash for public comment. Both options fall under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Under the first proposal, EPA would list these residuals as special wastes subject to regulation under subtitle C of RCRA, when destined for disposal in landfills or surface impoundments.Under the second proposal, EPA would regulate coal ash under subtitle D of RCRA, the section for non-hazardous wastes. The Agency considers each proposal to have its advantages and disadvantages, and includes benefits which should be considered in the public comment period. More information is available here. Comments on the rule can be submitted for 90 days after the proposal is published in the Federal Register (will be changed with the exact dates after publication). Comments can be submitted electronically on http://www.regulations.gov; submitted via email to rcra-docket@epa.gov,Attention Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-RCRA-2009-0640; faxed to 202-566-0272;Attention Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-RCRA-2009-0640; or mailed to the Hazardous Waste Management System; Identification and Listing of SpecialWastes; Disposal of Coal Combustion Residuals From Electric Utilities and CERCLA Hazardous Substance Designation and Reportable Quantities Docket, Attention Docket ID No., EPA-HQ-RCRA-2009-0640, Environmental Protection Agency, Mailcode: 5305T, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW.,Washington, DC 20460. Please include a total of two copies if sending by mail. David W. Bryan, APRPublic Affairs SpecialistOffice of Public Affairs EPA Region 7901 N. 5th Street Kansas City, KS 66101913.551.7433, Fax: 913.551.7066