On Friday, August 21, 9 faith organizations sent a comment to the Environmental Protection Agency, urging them to not adopt the proposed changes to the "minor new source review" (NSR) permitting programs. The proposed changes would prohibit public participation in permitting decisions for a wide range of emission sources which are categorized as "minor". As the comment states:
"We are particularly concerned with the impact this rule would have on the development and oversight of data centers, many of which seek “minor” source air permits for harmful diesel generators. These permits often cover sources with large emissions, allowing the industry to sidestep pollution regulations by dividing up projects and concealing the true environmental and public health costs to the surrounding community ... As a nation we must comply with the Clean Air Act and ensure that our communities have a voice and that their experience and knowledge are considered in decision making processes."
Read the full comment below.
"We are particularly concerned with the impact this rule would have on the development and oversight of data centers, many of which seek “minor” source air permits for harmful diesel generators. These permits often cover sources with large emissions, allowing the industry to sidestep pollution regulations by dividing up projects and concealing the true environmental and public health costs to the surrounding community ... As a nation we must comply with the Clean Air Act and ensure that our communities have a voice and that their experience and knowledge are considered in decision making processes."
Read the full comment below.