Tougher marine diesel emission rules postponed

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) On Dec. 5, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a change in the deadline for new emission standards to be created for large marine diesel engines (those at or above 30 liters per cylinder). The deadline for the final rule has been changed from April 27, 2007 to Dec. 17, 2009.

As part of this process, new rules to make deeper emission reductions were to be considered. Since 2003, the EPA has come to a better understanding of the work manufacturers are doing to apply advanced emission control technologies to large marine diesel engines. The EPA stated that much of the information to develop more stringent marine diesel emission standards has just recently come to light. Also, more time is needed to allow for negotiations of international standards by the International Maritime Organization.

Click here for the federal rule.