EPA Approves Maryland's Plan to Cut Pollution from Trash-Burning Power Plants
Official: Air Plan Approval; Maryland; Reasonably Available Control Technology for Municipal Waste Combustors
Reading: EPA approval of Maryland's existing RACT requirements for municipal waste combustor NOx emissions extends the state's air quality control program without substantive changes to stringency.
The new rules will require municipal waste combustors to use better pollution control technology.
In clear language
The EPA is proposing to approve Maryland's plan to reduce air pollution from trash-burning power plants by limiting nitrogen oxide emissions. This is part of a larger effort to improve air quality under federal clean air laws. The new rules will require municipal waste combustors to use better pollution control technology.
How does this affect you?
Pick the type of resident or organization you most identify with — we'll generate a plain-language breakdown of what changes for you and what you can do about it.
Who does this affect?
- Operators of municipal waste combustor facilities in Maryland
- Communities near waste-to-energy plants that currently experience air pollution
- Maryland residents who breathe the air affected by emissions from these facilities
What can you do?
- Stay informed about air quality in your area by checking EPA air quality forecasts and reports
- Support local efforts to reduce waste so fewer materials need to be burned for energy
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
Related policies
- Federal RegisterJul 15, 2026EPA Approval of Missouri's Plan to Control Nitrogen Oxide Pollution from Large Engines
The EPA is approving updates to Missouri's air quality plan that control pollution from large engines used in industry and power generation. The updates clean up reporting rules, add clearer definitions, and create an exemption for certain spark-ignited engines. This action follows federal Clean Air Act requirements.
- Federal RegisterJul 15, 2026EPA approves Wisconsin's plan to reduce nitrogen oxide pollution from Oak Creek Power Plant
The EPA is approving Wisconsin's plan to set new, lower limits on nitrogen oxide emissions from the Oak Creek Power Plant. These new limits will require the plant to emit less pollution over time while still meeting federal air quality standards. This change helps improve air quality in the region and keeps the state in compliance with federal clean air rules.
- Federal RegisterJul 15, 2026EPA approval of cleaner air plan for Castleton Power plant in New York
The EPA is approving New York State's plan to require the Castleton Power plant (near the Hudson River in New York) to install pollution controls that reduce nitrogen oxide emissions from its turbine and steam generator. These controls are designed to help the region meet federal air-quality standards for ozone. The approval means the power plant must install the best pollution-control technology that is reasonably affordable and available.
- Federal RegisterJul 9, 2026EPA approves California's updated air pollution limits for the San Joaquin Valley
The EPA is approving California's updated plan to reduce nitrogen oxide and volatile organic compound emissions (which cause smog) in the San Joaquin Valley region using the latest modeling methods. These new limits set targets for 2026, 2029, and 2031 to help the region meet federal air quality standards for ozone. The approval replaces older, less accurate emission limits with more current ones.