EPA finalizes rules to curb pollution

Washington – The Environmental Protection Agency has finalized rules aimed at reducing toxic air pollution from industrial boilers and incinerators, offering industry more flexibility and reduced costs.

Obama administration officials say most of the 1.5 million boilers nationwide are not covered by the regulation since they are too small or emit too little pollution to warrant controls.

The changes will require pollution controls at about 2,300 of the largest and most polluting boilers nationwide, including those found at refineries and chemical plants. Another 197,000 smaller boilers would be able to meet the rule through routine tune-ups.

The EPA says the revisions maintain public health protections while addressing concerns from industry and other stakeholders.

Industrial boilers burn coal and other fuels to generate steam and hot water for heat and electricity.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.