Projects
Challenges
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) selected TRC to assist in the development of scientifically valid data for the measurement of PFAS air emissions. TRC’s tasks were to: (1) assist EPA with the development of PFAS air emissions test methods; (2) perform an evaluation of PFAS emissions and the emission control effectiveness using an incineration emission control device; and (3) perform basic combustion research on the destruction of PFAS and the breakdown products formed at high temperatures. In order to promulgate air emission control standards for PFAS, this detailed information is necessary and aligned with EPA’s high priority of regulating PFAS emissions.
While TRC has extensive experience with emission testing for low-level contaminants, project staff were presented with a new challenge to conduct experimental PFAS test methods. TRC experts were tasked with developing procedures and procuring equipment for these new, specialized testing methods within a short period of time. These testing methods included the evaluation and considerations to accurately measure the PFAS air emissions before entering the incineration control device and the measurement and evaluation of resulting PFAS emissions and reaction products after exiting the incineration control device. TRC also evaluated the use of Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) as a tool to verify PFAS destruction from incineration control devices.
Solutions
TRC leveraged the national expertise and resources across our emissions testing group to:
- Plan, conduct and evaluate the results of a detailed PFAS air emissions test at the host facility
- Perform three different PFAS test methods at the inlet and outlet of the scrubber control device following the incinerator
- Assist EPA in planning, conducting and analyzing the FTIR data from PFAS incineration in a pilot scale burner
Results
The test project results were compiled in a 20,000 page report encompassing 62 data tables reflecting the measurement of 74 distinct PFAS compounds. This rigorous data, formatted in various ways to facilitate EPA’s assessment, fully support EPA in its mission to develop and evaluate PFAS air emission test methods, while also providing valuable information about PFAS emissions prior to and exiting from a sewage sludge incinerator.
Sharing Our Perspectives
Our practitioners share their insights and perspectives on the trends and challenges shaping the market.
PM2.5 Annual NAAQS Revised
May 7, 2024
The U.S. EPA issued a final rule based on its reconsideration of its 2020 decision to retain the primary and secondary National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for particulate matter (PM) without revision.
EPA Issues Regulations for Oil and Natural Gas Sector Tank Emissions
April 30, 2024
Storage Vessel or Tank Battery Operators Must Reduce Emissions by 95%.
EPA Proposes Rules for IRA-mandated Waste Emissions Charge for Methane
February 6, 2024
EPA proposed rules to implement the Waste Emissions Charge (WEC) program for facilities that exceed a waste emissions threshold
EPA Proposes New Guidance on Air Quality Analysis for Permits
January 5, 2024
On October 23, 2023, the US EPA proposed changes to the Guideline on Air Quality Models and the US EPA model AERMOD
Modeling of Fogging and Icing Events
December 14, 2023
In recent years, various agencies across the country have become committed to understanding the impacts of fog generated by cooling systems. At first glance, fog created by cooling towers may not appear to be a significant problem, however, it can have adverse effects on the public. Fog can impair visibility for people driving on roads and if temperatures are below freezing, fog can cause the formation of rime ice on surfaces. To understand the consequences of fog created by these cooling systems, experts have devised advanced modeling techniques.
EPA Proposes Regulation of Green House Gas Emissions
July 10, 2023
This article highlights the EPA’s proposed rules to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and the potential impact on new and existing fossil fuel-fired facilities.
TRC Acquires United Sciences Testing, Inc., Expanding Air Management Capabilities
February 23, 2022
TRC Companies (“TRC”), announced the expansion of its Air Management capabilities with the acquisition of United Sciences Testing, Inc. (USTI), who provides emissions testing services to utility and industrial clients within the Great Lakes and Midwest regions of the US.
EPA Adds First New Hazardous Air Pollutant Since 1990
January 14, 2022
EPA finalized a rule to add 1-bromopropane to the federal list of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) on December 22, 2022.
Air Emissions Permitting: What Analytical Laboratories Need to Know About Compliance
December 18, 2021
The independent testing of liquid and solid samples is a critical way that businesses demonstrate regulatory compliance. The laboratories that perform these analyses are also subject to environmental rules and should closely track their operations to ensure they are meeting compliance obligations.
EPA Proposes Changes to Methane Control at Petroleum Operations
November 10, 2021
New Source Performance Standard for Methane Control at Petroleum Operations in 2022
PFAS Air Emissions Standards and Trends for Summer 2021
August 17, 2021
Environmental impacts of PFAS in ambient air leads to states implementing PFAS air-related thresholds.
Managing EHS & ESG Risks Through Integrated Systems Today and Beyond
July 22, 2021
It has been more than 50 years since the development and establishment of the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the federal Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) which were formed to protect our environment and workplaces across the United States. Significant laws, policies and regulations followed to establish the “regulatory programs” that all applicable businesses and entities must address and meet to ensure these compliance-driven legislative programs would create a foundation to protect our society.
EPA Ramps Up Inspections and Enforcement Actions
May 14, 2021
EPA’s acting enforcement chief, Larry Starfield, directs agents to ramp up inspections in communities known to be afflicted by pollution
South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 2305: Warehouse Indirect Source Rule
April 7, 2021
The rule is intended to reduce local and regional emissions of NOx and diesel particulate matter (PM).
EPA Clean Air Act Rulemaking Announced December 2020
December 31, 2020
EPA announces Clean Air Act Rulemaking in the final month of the current administration and indicates more could be announced before the new administration comes into office.
New Jersey’s Landmark Environmental Justice Law
November 24, 2020
Many facilities require air quality measurement testing programs to verify compliance with regulatory permits, assess new air pollution control equipment performance and certify the continuous emission monitoring (CEM) equipment associated with the production processes. Proper, accurate, efficient and timely execution of compliance test programs reduces costs while providing defensible data that are representative of source emissions. In the absence of proper planning, important details can be overlooked, resulting in last minute changes that are costly with the potential to delay the test program. Proper planning, coupled with informed oversight, ensures the test program is performed successfully, in full accordance with appropriate methods and agency coordination and supported by the full complement of required measurement and process data. This webinar, tailored to meet the needs of facilities in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Missouri and Wisconsin, shares best practices and outlines key considerations to equip participants with the skills to manage air quality measurement programs that achieve technically-sound results and fully support the compliance and operational objectives of all types of facilities. Topics discussed by TRC’s Dan Grabowski and Doug Ryan include: A systematic approach to stack test planning and oversight General notification and reporting requirements EPA’s Electronic Reporting Tool (ERT) Update on EPA’s Stationary Source Audit Program (SSAP)
EPA Finalizes Reversal of “Once In Always In” Air Pollution Policy
November 18, 2020
On October 1, 2020, the EPA finalized a ruling that no longer enforces the “once in, always in” air emissions policy.
TRC Awarded a Yahara WINS Grant
August 28, 2020
TRC was recently awarded a Yahara WINS grant to develop a pilot scale simple aeration method for removing phosphorous from the discharge of manure digesters. The grant application was developed and submitted by: Bob Stanforth, Alyssa Sellwood, Mike Ursin, Ted O’Connell, Ken Quinn, and John Rice, who are members of multiple TRC CORE teams.
New York State Finalizes Emission Limits for Power Generators
January 21, 2020
On January 16, 2020, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) finalized a rulemaking limiting nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from existing simple cycle and regenerative peaking combustion turbines with a nameplate capacity of 15 megawatts (MW) or greater during the ozone season (May 1 – October 31).
EPA Signs New Rule Affecting Air Emissions from Stationary Combustion Turbines
September 16, 2024
EPA finalized the residual risk and technology review (RTR) of the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Stationary Combustion Turbines.
EPA Proposes New Guidance on Air Quality Analysis for Permits
January 5, 2024
On October 23, 2023, the US EPA proposed changes to the Guideline on Air Quality Models and the US EPA model AERMOD
Modeling of Fogging and Icing Events
December 14, 2023
In recent years, various agencies across the country have become committed to understanding the impacts of fog generated by cooling systems. At first glance, fog created by cooling towers may not appear to be a significant problem, however, it can have adverse effects on the public. Fog can impair visibility for people driving on roads and if temperatures are below freezing, fog can cause the formation of rime ice on surfaces. To understand the consequences of fog created by these cooling systems, experts have devised advanced modeling techniques.
EPA Issues Information Collection Request for Plywood and Composite Wood Products Source Operators
March 17, 2022
EPA issued an Information Collection Request (ICR) to develop new emission standards for inclusion in the Plywood and Composite Wood Products (PCWP) National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP).
EPA Lifts Stay of Standards for New Lean Premix and Diffusion Flame Gas-fired Combustion Turbines
March 14, 2022
The EPA Administration signed a notice to finalize amendments to the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Stationary Combustion Turbines
TRC Acquires United Sciences Testing, Inc., Expanding Air Management Capabilities
February 23, 2022
TRC Companies (“TRC”), announced the expansion of its Air Management capabilities with the acquisition of United Sciences Testing, Inc. (USTI), who provides emissions testing services to utility and industrial clients within the Great Lakes and Midwest regions of the US.
Air Emissions Permitting: What Analytical Laboratories Need to Know About Compliance
December 18, 2021
The independent testing of liquid and solid samples is a critical way that businesses demonstrate regulatory compliance. The laboratories that perform these analyses are also subject to environmental rules and should closely track their operations to ensure they are meeting compliance obligations.
EPA Proposes Changes to Methane Control at Petroleum Operations
November 10, 2021
New Source Performance Standard for Methane Control at Petroleum Operations in 2022
PFAS Air Emissions Standards and Trends for Summer 2021
August 17, 2021
Environmental impacts of PFAS in ambient air leads to states implementing PFAS air-related thresholds.
Managing EHS & ESG Risks Through Integrated Systems Today and Beyond
July 22, 2021
It has been more than 50 years since the development and establishment of the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the federal Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) which were formed to protect our environment and workplaces across the United States. Significant laws, policies and regulations followed to establish the “regulatory programs” that all applicable businesses and entities must address and meet to ensure these compliance-driven legislative programs would create a foundation to protect our society.
EPA Proposes New Emissions Limits for Combustion Turbines
May 22, 2021
After 15 years of legal limbo, combustion turbines could be facing new emissions standards under a proposal introduced by the EPA.
EPA Ramps Up Inspections and Enforcement Actions
May 14, 2021
EPA’s acting enforcement chief, Larry Starfield, directs agents to ramp up inspections in communities known to be afflicted by pollution
South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 2305: Warehouse Indirect Source Rule
April 7, 2021
The rule is intended to reduce local and regional emissions of NOx and diesel particulate matter (PM).
EPA Finalizes Reversal of “Once In Always In” Air Pollution Policy
November 18, 2020
On October 1, 2020, the EPA finalized a ruling that no longer enforces the “once in, always in” air emissions policy.
TRC Awarded a Yahara WINS Grant
August 28, 2020
TRC was recently awarded a Yahara WINS grant to develop a pilot scale simple aeration method for removing phosphorous from the discharge of manure digesters. The grant application was developed and submitted by: Bob Stanforth, Alyssa Sellwood, Mike Ursin, Ted O’Connell, Ken Quinn, and John Rice, who are members of multiple TRC CORE teams.
New York State Finalizes Emission Limits for Power Generators
January 21, 2020
On January 16, 2020, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) finalized a rulemaking limiting nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from existing simple cycle and regenerative peaking combustion turbines with a nameplate capacity of 15 megawatts (MW) or greater during the ozone season (May 1 – October 31).
New York State Proposes Emissions Limits for Power Generators
March 22, 2019
On February 27, 2019, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) released a proposed rulemaking limiting nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from existing simple cycle and regenerative peaking combustion turbines with a nameplate capacity of 15 megawatts (MW) or greater during the ozone season (May 1 – October 31).
EPA Releases Clean Water Act Facility Response Plan Rule
June 19, 2024
This Regulatory Update is the first in a series summarizing the Rule and how it may affect your facility.
PM2.5 Annual NAAQS Revised
May 7, 2024
The U.S. EPA issued a final rule based on its reconsideration of its 2020 decision to retain the primary and secondary National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for particulate matter (PM) without revision.
What You Need to Know About MSHA’s Final Rule on Crystalline Silica Dust
April 8, 2024
Regulatory Changes Will Impact Mine Operators and Better Protect Employee Health and Safety.
Changes to EPA’s Risk Management Program (RMP) Regulations Are Here
April 3, 2024
Changes to the Risk Management Program (RMP) regulations were signed into a final rule on February 27, 2024, by EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan.
Changes to EPA’s Risk Management Program (RMP) Regulations Are Coming
April 14, 2023
Changes to the Risk Management Program (RMP) regulations were signed into a final rule on February 27, 2024, by EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan.
Phase I ESA ASTM Standard Update: The Wait is Over
December 21, 2022
The USEPA published a Final Rule making the ASTM E1527-21 Phase I ESA standard AAI compliant.
Proactive Enforcement is Key in the EPA FY2022-2026 Strategy
October 19, 2022
A core element of the EPA FY2022-2026 Strategic Plan focuses on environmental compliance.
Preparing for EPA Inspections in Environmental Justice Communities
October 4, 2022
The EPA Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Have Expanded Goals to Strengthen Enforcement and Protections Within EJ Communities
New National Emerging Contaminants Research Initiative
September 12, 2022
The Executive Office of the President of the United States announced a National Emerging Contaminant Research Initiative
Climate Action and Environmental Justice are at the Forefront of EPA’s Strategic Plan
June 14, 2022
The EPA issued its Fiscal Year 2022-2026 Strategic Plan. Although the strategic plans emphases often change with administrations, we can be reasonably certain that the Plan reflects priorities through 2024.
CCR Removal and Its Effects on Soil and Groundwater Geochemistry
October 25, 2021
Many utilities are implementing corrective action at coal combustion residual (CCR) surface impoundments under Federal or State CCR Regulations, with implications for groundwater protection standards.
NJDEP Implements New Jersey Environmental Justice Law Through Administrative Order
October 5, 2021
On September 22, 2021, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Commissioner announced the issuance of Administrative Order (AO) No. 2021-25 to implement New Jersey’s Environmental Justice (EJ) Law. This order is effective immediately, and applicants seeking to site new major source facilities, renew major source permits or expand existing facilities with major source permits (e.g., Title V air permits) in overburdened communities are affected. There are more than 4.5 million people that live within 331 municipalities that are overburdened communities in the state of New Jersey.
OSHA’s Call for Comments on Mechanical Power Press Standard Changes
September 30, 2021
OSHA has recently published a call for comment regarding mechanical power presses. The reason behind OSHA’s request is that the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) consensus standard for mechanical power presses has been updated numerous times since the implementation of OSHA’s standard.
Managing EHS & ESG Risks Through Integrated Systems Today and Beyond
July 22, 2021
It has been more than 50 years since the development and establishment of the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the federal Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) which were formed to protect our environment and workplaces across the United States. Significant laws, policies and regulations followed to establish the “regulatory programs” that all applicable businesses and entities must address and meet to ensure these compliance-driven legislative programs would create a foundation to protect our society.
EPA Resource Conservation & Recovery Act (RCRA) Corrective Action (CA)
January 11, 2021
The EPA RCRA Corrective Action (CA) Program recently provides a review and update on CA set in 2004 and new CA set for 2030.
EPA continues to aggressively address PFAS wastewater with two new strategies
January 4, 2021
EPA takes steps toward PFAS wastewater and storm water permitting, and analytical methods for testing.
2020 TSCA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
December 7, 2020
Earlier this year, EPA revised the CDR rule to reflect the 2016 amendments to TSCA, including changes for foreign-owned businesses and the reporting responsibilities of suppliers and contractors, as well as an exemption for small businesses.
Ecological Risk of PFAS from AFFF-Impacted Sites
June 30, 2020
The facts on evaluating exposure to wildlife
TRC Chosen to Provide Array of Integrated Services on Midship Pipeline Project
August 28, 2018
TRC has been awarded contracts for environmental consulting, engineering and field services and another for stem-to-stern Engineer, Procure and Construct (EPC) contract for three compressor stations.