New EPA Boiler Standards Will Save 6,500 Lives Per Year

WASHINGTON (February 23, 2011) – EPA announced today new standards for cutting air toxics from boilers and other industrial sources across the country. In response, NRDC’s Clean Air Project Director John Walke issued the following statement:

“EPA could have done more, but these standards accomplish long overdue, needed cuts in mercury, benzene, heavy metal and acid gas pollution from industrial plants. While the final biomass standards are notably relaxed in response to industry complaints, overall the safeguards still will save up to 6,500 lives, avoid 4,000 heart attacks, and prevent more than 46,000 cases of aggravated asthma and bronchitis every year. Americans deserve these tremendous health benefits without political interference by Congress.”

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