WASHINGTON—The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed a new emissions standard for vehicles and motor fuels it said will prevent up to 2,400 premature deaths annually.
"Following a proven systems approach that addresses vehicles and fuels as an integrated system, today's proposal will enable the greatest pollution reductions at the lowest cost," the EPA said March 29.
According to the agency, the rule would reduce emissions of volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides by 80 percent; particulate matter by 70 percent; and fuel vapor emissions to near zero. It also would reduce vehicle emissions of toxic air pollutants, such as benzene and 1,3-butadiene, by up to 40 percent, the EPA said.
As of April 1, the proposal had not been published in the Federal Register. As soon as it is, the EPA will establish deadlines for public comment and schedule public hearings.