EPA Approval of Maryland's Plan to Reduce Pollution from Trash Incinerators
Official: Air Quality State Implementation Plans; Approvals and Promulgations: Maryland; Reasonably Available Control Technology for Municipal Waste Combustors
Reading: The approval of Maryland's reasonably available control technology (RACT) requirements for municipal waste combustors strengthens pollution controls on a major air-quality source.
New Jersey may face similar requirements if its incinerators are subject to comparable federal air quality rules.
In clear language
The EPA has approved Maryland's plan to require trash incinerators to use better pollution-control technology to meet federal air quality standards. This approval means Maryland's waste combustor facilities must now adopt these controls. New Jersey may face similar requirements if its incinerators are subject to comparable federal air quality rules.
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 combustors and trash incineration facilities in Maryland and potentially neighboring states including New Jersey
- Communities near incinerators that may experience improved air quality
- Waste management companies that operate or contract with incinerator facilities
What can you do?
- Check if your community has a nearby waste combustor facility and monitor local air quality reports
- Contact your New Jersey state legislators to ask whether similar pollution controls are required at NJ incinerators
Timeline
- 2026-10-08: EPA final rule posted
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
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