New Mexico's regional haze plan moves closer to EPA approval

New Mexico’s regional haze plan moved closer to implementation on Wednesday as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it has proposed approving the state’s measures to meet the Clean Air Act’s requirements.

According to the regional haze rule, states must submit plans detailing how they will achieve natural visibility conditions in the country’s prominent wilderness areas. This is mainly accomplished by reducing levels of nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide and particulate matter emissions, among other air pollutants.

According to the EPA’s announcement, it is seeking to approve New Mexico’s plan due to clear identification of the controls the state will apply, a compliance timeframe outline, and additional pollution controls that show potential for further emissions reductions. Wilderness areas covered by the plan have already shown visibility improvements.

“New Mexico has proven to be a leader in reducing the emissions that contribute to regional haze,” EPA Regional Administrator Ron Curry said. “Their efforts will produce results for people who enjoy the state’s spectacular wilderness areas by improving visibility.”