EPA Approves Rule 2305: A New Standard for Reducing California Warehouse Emissions
- jmaiden
- Jan 28
- 1 min read
Updated: Jan 29
On September 11, the EPA approved California’s South Coast Air Quality Management District's (SCAQMD) “Rule 2305” as part of the state implementation plan (SIP), aimed at regulating emissions from warehouses. This rule addresses nitrogen oxides (NOX) and particulate matter (PM), which are classified as indirect sources of mobile source emissions.
Rule 2305 has a "menu-based" compliance system, requiring warehouses to earn points by implementing various pollution reduction strategies. These strategies include utilizing near-zero emissions, zero emissions trucks, and zero emissions infrastructure. Warehouses also have the option to create customized plans or pay a $1,000 mitigation fee for each compliance obligation, with the funds directed toward local emission reduction initiatives.
Although the rule has previously withstood legal challenges from the trucking and airline industries, industry groups may still seek to contest the EPA’s approval. The EPA has also countered claims that the rule is preempted by the Airline Deregulation Act (ADA) or the Federal Aviation Administration Authorization Act (FAAAA).
EPA’s approval will likely encourage states with a similar mindset on environmental issues as California to seek to implement their own programs. Environmentalists view this rule as a pivotal step in combating diesel pollution, particularly in light of Southern California's ongoing air quality challenges. Industry views this program as another example of regulatory overreach and anti-growth taxation. Observers should pay close attention to whether other traditionally blue states follow suit.
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