RMA expresses serious doubts about EPA emissions proposal

WASHINGTON (Jan. 29)—The Rubber Manufacturers Association has found "troubling provisions" in the proposed national emissions standard for rubber tire manufacturing, the group has told the Environmental Protection Agency in comments on the proposed rule. The document´s daily recordkeeping and control technology provisions could prove difficult for the industry, as could its application of the standard to such areas as research and development and certain maintenance solvents, according to the comments signed by Tracey J. Norberg, RMA director of environmental affairs. "Environmental benefits far greater than the potential impact of this rule are achieved each time a manufacturer further decreases a tire´s rolling resistance or increases tire life," Norberg said. "Manufacturers must retain the ability to use the full range of materials available in order to maximize the potential for innovation."