The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today confirmed the air in southeastern St. Clair County exceeds federal standards for sulfur dioxide.
The finding, based on DEQ’s modeling and recommendation, designates the southeastern portion of the county in nonattainment with the Clean Air Act’s National Ambient Air Quality Standard for sulfur dioxide. To address this public health concern, the DEQ will develop a plan within 18 months to lower sulfur dioxide air pollution in the county. The plan, called a State Implementation Plan, or SIP, must achieve the reductions within five years, and sooner if possible.
The DEQ’s computer simulations show the emissions from two coal-fired power plants, DTE Belle River and DTE St. Clair, are causing sulfur dioxide levels that exceed the more stringent standard set by EPA in 2010. The DEQ has already begun working with DTE to develop a SIP that will reduce sulfur dioxide emissions to protect public health and bring the area’s air into compliance with the federal standard. DTE recently announced that the St. Clair power plant will cease operating in 2020-2023.
“The DEQ is committed to protecting the health of St. Clair residents, and of all Michiganders,” said Lynn Fiedler, chief of the DEQ’s Air Quality Division. “We take nonattainment seriously, and we have already begun discussions to find a solution.”
Exposure to elevated levels of sulfur dioxide can affect breathing, cause respiratory illnesses, and aggravate existing cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases.
The DEQ will keep the public informed as a SIP is developed, and will make a draft SIP available for public review and comment.
St. Clair County residents with questions can contact Craig Fitzner at 517-284-6743 or fitznerc@michigan.gov.
Source: DEQ