The EPA Airs Defense of Anti-Pollution Effort

I was greatly disappointed in reading The Times’ July 1 editorial asserting that the Bush administration is erecting roadblocks for California in its pursuit of clean air. Under the Bush administration, the Environmental Protection Agency has moved forward with both on- and off-road diesel rules, currently the toughest standards in the world for diesel engines. These new engine and fuel standards will produce the largest single health benefit for all residents of the United States, including and especially California, since lead was removed from gasoline nearly 30 years ago.

No state has a greater burden in the battle for clean air than California. We have worked diligently with the California Air Resources Board and the 35 air quality management districts and air pollution control districts. Where the courts have found plans or measures illegal, we have recommitted ourselves to work with the state to find a way to do it legally. This is not erecting roadblocks.

It is popular to criticize the administration with regard to regulating coal-fired power plants. However, these actions, designed to eliminate uncertainty and litigation and provide clarity when pollution control upgrades are required, were first proposed by the previous administration. We are committed to producing real and measurable environmental improvement to the environment by working collaboratively with California.

Wayne Nastri

EPA Regional Administrator

San Francisco