The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved South Carolina's Second Planning Period Regional Haze State Implementation Plan (SIP). This approval follows the determination that South Carolina has fulfilled all statutory and regulatory requirements under the Clean Air Act (CAA) and the Regional Haze Rule (RHR). The plan aims to enhance "natural visibility" in national parks and protected areas, including Cape Romain Wilderness Area.
EPA Regional Administrator Kevin McOmber said, "This plan represents years of work by EPA, South Carolina, and partner agencies to accomplish the shared goal of clean air and improved visibility." He noted that South Carolina is ahead of schedule in improving natural visibility in these areas. U.S. Senator Tim Scott emphasized the importance of protecting South Carolina’s natural treasures for their recreational and economic benefits.
Myra Reece, Director of the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services, highlighted the collaborative efforts involved in developing this proactive strategy to reduce air pollutants causing haze. The EPA's approval indicates that sulfur dioxide emissions are projected to decrease by 75% and nitrogen oxide by 54% between 2011 and 2028.
Earlier this year, the EPA issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking for the third planning period of the regional haze plan. This seeks public input on potential regulatory changes to ensure alignment with Congressional intent and current scientific information. The notice reflects EPA’s commitment to cooperative federalism as part of its Powering the Great American Comeback initiative.
The CAA and RHR require states to collaborate with EPA on air quality protection plans aimed at reducing pollution affecting visibility in 156 national parks and wilderness areas across the country.
