APRIL 2012 Issue             800-252-3998

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 Illinois Small Business  Environmental Assistance Program  
The Illinois Small Business Environmental Assistance Program (IL SBEAP) is a federally mandated program to assist small companies in understanding their environmental requirements and achieving compliance.  The program is located in the non-regulatory, business assistance agency, the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to alleviate small business' fears in seeking assistance. Questions?  Call 800-252-3998
Illinois Small Business Environmental Assistance Newsletter
In This Issue
Statel Updates
Federal Updates
Training & Events
Federal Updates
Environmental Insights
Join Our Mailing List 
Small Business Environmental Assistance Program
Illinois Dept. of Commerce
& Economic Opportunity
500 East Monroe R-5
Springfield, IL 62701
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Click to Visit our Program website
 

Publication

 Spotlight

   Registratin of Smaller Sources  (ROSS) Factsheet 

illinos sealState Updates

Frequently Asked Questions About the New Registration of Smaller Sources (ROSS) Program

 

The Small Business Environmental Assistance Program is the lead for assisting Illinois companies in converting from an air permitted facility into the new registration program.  We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answers for you below.  

 

If I have an air permit, do I have to register or can I just keep my permit?

The ROSS program is mandatory, sources that meet all of the eligibility criteria must register within 90 days of their annual site fee due date. If you have an existing permit, it will remain in your file and become dormant. Should you increase emissions or have other changes that would make you ineligible for the ROSS program, you can request to comply with the terms or your existing permit if still applicable or request to modify your permit if necessary within 90 days of your annual site fee due date.

 

If I'm a ROSS eligible source, do I have to submit my 2011 AER that is due May 1?

No, once a source is ROSS eligible and are no longer required to have a permit, they do not have to submit the AER for 2011 and in the future.

 

If I'm covered by rules under regulations promulgated pursuant to Section 111 or 112 of the Clean Air Act, does that mean I am ineligible for ROSS?

No, if the NESHAP does not require the source to have a permit the source could still be eligible for ROSS. Actual emissions must meet the eligibility criteria.

 

If I have 5.02 or 5.3 tons of actual combined pollutants but have been 3.6 tons and 3.0 tons the past few years, is their any consideration of our historical emissions?

No, for initial registration it is a firm emission criteria of 5 tons.

However for renewal: the total sum of actual emissions of combined air pollutant emissions for the prior calendar year must be less than or equal to 7 tons, and the total sum of actual emissions from the prior two calendar years must be less than or equal to 10 tons.

(Summed emissions of HAPs, mercury or lead must be less than or equal to 0.5 tons per year, 0.05 tons per year, or 0.05 tons per year, for the prior calendar year, respectively.)

 

Can I apply for ROSS for our new facility startup since our first year we expect our actual emissions to be low?

Yes, a new source can apply for ROSS based upon estimated emissions. If a new source was not constructed at the time of initial registration and exceed the initial actual emission eligibility criteria in the first or second year, the ROSS source must apply for an operating permit and pay applicable construction permit application fees.

If an existing ROSS source constructs several emission units through the years and then exceeds the ROSS eligibility requirement, then they must only apply for a construction permit for the last emission units that put them back into a permit and pay applicable fees.

 

If I am a ROSS source and I believe my actual emissions will push me out of the program into permits, how long do I have to notify the agency? 

  • Existing sources who previously were covered by a permit must notify the agency within 90 days of their site fee due date that they wish to reinstate their permit and will comply with its terms and/or modify their permit.
  • ROSS sources not previously covered by a permit must apply for a permit 90 days prior to annual site fee renewal.

(Note: the renewal criteria allows for emissions up to 7 tons for the prior year and a two year combined total of 10 tons or less)

 

Do GHG emissions determine my ROSS eligibility?

No, GHG emissions as well as emissions from exempt activities or equipment are not considered in determining eligibility

 

What if I have already submitted my permit application to the BOA and I now qualify for ROSS?

The source will be notified by permits that they must register under the ROSS program instead of acquiring a permit. The source will receive a refund for construction fees and they can be given a credit towards registration or a refund for the $235.

 

How will portable units be handled under ROSS?

Portable units that emit less than 5 tpy in aggregate at all locations need to register and only pay one annual site fee of $235. When a portable is being moved, the company must submit new location information (use APC208 Form)

 

Will I receive notification that I am a registered ROSS source?

Yes, sources will receive a confirmation letter that they are registered and those are going soon after received, generally within a week or two. 

 

Can I register electronically for ROSS?

Yes, you may complete the registration form and email it electronically to: EPA.BOA.ROSS@Illinois.gov

 

Why would my registration be rejected?

Common errors include:

Not marking the certification checkbox

Lack of signature

No payment with a new source

Non-payment of past site fees for existing sources

Applications are being checked against the inventory for 2010 and someone may call those who do not appear to be eligible.  

 

Remember! ROSS only eliminates the requirement for a permit (& AER). You must still comply with all applicable environmental requirements.

 

If you have additional questions about the Registration of Smaller Sources Program call the Small Business Environmental Assistance Program at 800-252-3998 or visit www.ienconnect.com/enviro.

 

 

Illinois Air Permit Streamlining Actions Coming Soon

 

Signed by Governor Quinn in July, Public Act 097-0095 (House Bill 1297), which created the Registration of Smaller Sources program, also contained many permit streamlining provisions to be implemented by the Illinois EPA.

 

One provision authorizes Illinois EPA to issue general permits for construction, installation, or operation of categories of facilities. Within 6 months of the effective date of the bill, Illinois EPA, in consultation with the regulated community, had to identify types of permits for which general permitting would be appropriate, including but not limited to, permits for nonhazardous solid waste activities, discharge of stormwater from landfills, and discharges of hydrostatic test waters.

 

Air permitted facilities that the agency has identified as potential industries for general permitting include:

  • Concrete Batch Plants (stationary & portable)
  • Petroleum Dry Cleaners
  • Material (non-waste) crushers (portable only)
  • Soil vapor extraction/Air strippers (alone or at true minor sources)

 

General permits for these industries would be for sources that do not meet the ROSS eligibility criteria, industry sources with low actual emissions would register under ROSS in lieu of general permitting.

 

Another provision, authorizes IPCB to adopt permits by rule for classes of facilities. Within 1 year of effective date of bill, Illinois EPA, in consultation with the regulated community, will identify types of permits for which permitting by rule would be appropriate, including but not limited to, permits for open burning, certain package boilers and heaters using only natural gas or refinery gas, and certain internal combustion engines.

 

An update on the Agency's permit streamlining activities can be found at:  http://www.epa.state.il.us/permits/status-report.pdf

 

The Illinois Small Business Environmental Assistance Program will be following rule changes and we will continue to include permit streamlining updates in the Clean Air Clips newsletter.   Individuals who do not currently receive the e-newsletter may text "ILSBEAP" to 22828 from their mobile device or sign up at www.ienconnect.com/enviro.

 

 

REMINDER: 2011 Annual Emission Reports are Due  May 1st!  

All air permitted sources must file their 2011 Annual Emissions Reports with the Illinois EPA annually.  (Facilities which just became eligible for the Registration of Smaller Sources (ROSS) program  do NOT have to complete the 2011 report). Sources should also note that reporting of Green Houses Gases became mandatory in 2011 and should complete the forms appropriately.  For more information about Annual Emission Reports and links to helpful online emission calculators, click here. If you have questions about completing your report please contact the Small Business Environmental Assistance Program at 800-252-3998

  

  

"Does My Business Need an Air Pollution Control Permit?" Updated 

  

Questions about air permitting requirements in Illinois? The Small Business Environmental Assistance Program has updated its publication "Does My Business Need an Air Pollution Control Permit?" , to include recent permit program changes regarding: fees, the new Registration of Smaller Sources (ROSS) and other permitting issues.   Visit: www.ienconnect.com/enviro for this and other publications. In addition, the Illinois EPA has updated the, "Does Your Business Need Land Permit?" and "Does Your Business Need a Water Permit?" publications as well as their "Quick Answer Directory" visit:  http://www.epa.state.il.us/small-business/publications.html for these publications. 

 

2012 Illinois Governor's Sustainability Awards Applications Due May 25


Illinois Sustainable Technology Center (ISTC) is now accepting applications for the 2012 Illinois Governor's Sustainability Awards 

The deadline for application submittal will be the close of business on May 25, 2012.  Applications will only be accepted electronically.  Details can be found at: http://www.istc.illinois.edu/info/govs_awards.cfm.  

 

Illinois Offers Lights for Learning: Unique  Educational & Fundraising Program

 

    

Lights for Learning™ is an education-based outreach and fundraising program that promotes the sale and use of low-cost, energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). The Program helps children and schools raise needed funds while encouraging participants and their communities to become more energy conscious.

The primary objectives for each Lights for Learning program include:

  • Assist children and schools raise needed funds for the classroom or community programs
  • Educate children about energy efficiency, conservation and reducing carbon dioxide emissions
  • Recognize direct and indirect impact of climate change on human/animal health
  • Provide students with a platform to educate others in their community
  • Reinforce the value and benefits of using ENERGY STARŪ qualified CFLs

Lights for Learning can be tailored to your school fundraiser's specific needs:

  • Field Representatives can visit your school to host a FREE kick-off assembly or simply address a small group of kids
  • Sales can made going door-to-door or in booths at school functions, sporting events or even in grocery stores

In addition, free Lights for Learning Program presentations empower children to make the connection between energy use, environmental degradation, and climate change, clarifying the need for energy efficiency and conservation. The message of taking action is a consistent theme, and students are armed with simple steps that they can take to join the fight against climate change. Lights for Learning presentations include up-to-date information on fossil fuels versus renewable energy sources, home energy efficiency methods, global conservation efforts, and the necessity of reducing greenhouse gas emissions

 

Lights for Learning hands-on educational lesson plans and activities are available to educators at no cost. These lessons plans teach across the curriculum in the disciplines of science, social science, math, and language arts. Educators may pick and choose different areas of the curriculum that they may apply as part of their daily class instruction. Activities and worksheets align with the lesson plans and can be used in addition to the tutorial or as supplemental lessons and activities. Activity books are available for grades K-1, 2-3, and 4-5 and have been developed to incorporate and reiterate the overall message of the Lights for Learning Program.  

 

Through the optional fundraiser portion of Lights for Learning, students channel their new-found energy awareness into raising supporting funds for their schools or organizations. Students become the educators as they instruct their families, neighbors, and communities-at-large on the cost- and energy-saving benefits of ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs and other lighting products. Funding for the program is provide by the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity.  For more information about the Lights for Learning Program visit http://lights4learning.org/index.php Or contact Jackie Perrin at:

jackiep@appliedproactive.com

 

 

 

Federal Updates

An Important Regulatory Update for Small Sources with Boilers Burning Solid or Liquid Fuels  

 

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has just announced that it is offering small sources, called area sources, more time to comply with new work practices for their boilers.

 

Area sources with boilers burning coal, biomass, oil, or other solid or liquid fuels (except for LPG, aka liquefied petroleum gas or liquid propane gas) are required in the National Emission Standard for Hazardous Air Pollutants from Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional Boilers at Area Sources (40 CFR part 63, subpart JJJJJJ) to complete a tune up of their boiler by March 21, 2012.  [NOTE:  Area sources are those with emissions less than either 10 tons per year of a single federal hazardous air pollutant or 25 tons per year of all federal hazardous air pollutants combined.]

 

Nationally, this requirement affected over 180,000 sources.  The sheer number of boilers involved has placed a great burden on the industry providing the tune up services.  Many cannot schedule the extra work in such a short period of time.  For that reason, EPA has sent a letter to industry groups indicating that they will take no action on the March 21, 2012 deadline.  No enforcement on the tune up requirements will occur prior to October 1, 2012.  In addition, a recent rule proposal is expected to be final soon that will delay the compliance deadline until March 21, 2013

 

You can review USEPA's No Action Assurance letter at:  http://www.epa.gov/airquality/combustion/compliance/index.html

 

  

New and Revised Rules for Electric Utility Steam Generating Units

 

USEPA finalized the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants From Coal- and Oil-Fired Electric Utility Steam Generating Units (NESHAP) 40 CFR 63 Subpart UUUUU and Standards of Performance for Fossil-Fuel-Fired Electric Utility, Industrial-Commerical-Institutional, and Small industrial-Commercial-Institutional Steam Generating Units (NSPS) 40 CFR 60 Subparts Da, Db, and Dc on February 16, 2012. Under the NESHAP 40 CFR 63 Subpart UUUUU, also known as the Utility MACT, any electric utility steam generating unit (EGU) of more than 25 megawatts electric (MWe) that serves a generator that produces electricity for sale and combusts coal or fuel oil will be impacted by this regulation. This rule includes emission limits, monitoring, testing, recordkeeping and reporting requirements.

 

The revisions to the NSPS 40 CFR 60 Subpart D, Da, Db and Dc include new and revised definitions, exclusions for PM and opacity standards for units that combust natural gas, revising and adding additional emission standards, monitoring, recordkeeping and reporting requirements.

 

For more information on these rules, go to http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-02-16/pdf/2012-806.pdf  

 

Comments on Greenhouse Gas Tailoring Rule Proposal Due April 20th

 

USEPA proposed changes to the Prevention of Significant Deterioration and Title V Greenhouse Gas Tailoring Rule Step 3, GHG Plantwide Applicability Limitations and GHG Synthetic Minor Limitations on March 8, 2012. USEPA is proposing to maintain the current levels for applicability and to add two streamlining approaches to reduce the administrative burden. This includes the addition of GHG Plantwide Applicability Limitations (PALs) on either a mass-basis (ton/year) or a carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e)-basis. PALs can also be used to determine major source status or can be used to limit GHG for a synthetic minor. For more information on this proposal and to comment on the rule (due on or before April 20, 2012), refer to  http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-03-08/pdf/2012-5431.pdf  

  

Comments on Continuous Opacity Monitoring Systems Standards Due April 30th 

 

USEPA proposed quality assurance and quality control measures for sources that use Continuous Opacity Monitoring Systems (COMS) used to demonstrate continuous compliance with opacity standards in federally enforceable regulations in the Federal Register on February 14, 2012. For more information on the proposed regulation, please refer to:  http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-02-14/pdf/2012-3378.pdf  

USEPA then granted an extension for comments on this rule in the March 8, 2012, Federal Register to April 30, 2012. For more information concerning the extension for comments, please refer to: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-03-08/pdf/2012-5433.pdf  

   

Comments on Proposed UST Rules Due April 16th  

 

EPA is extending the public comment period for the proposed changes to the 1988 underground storage tank (UST) technical, financial responsibility, and state program approval regulations published in the Federal Register on November 18, 2011 (76 FR 71708) (FRL-9485-5). These changes establish federal requirements that are similar to key portions of the Energy Policy Act of 2005; they also update certain 1988 UST regulations. Proposed changes include: Adding secondary containment requirements for new and replaced tanks and piping; adding operator training requirements; adding periodic operation and maintenance requirements for UST systems; removing certain deferrals; adding new release prevention and detection technologies; updating codes of practice; making editorial and technical corrections; and updating state program approval requirements to incorporate these new changes. These changes will likely protect human health and the environment by increasing the number of prevented UST releases and quickly detecting them, if they occur. This document extends the comment period for 60 days, from February 16, 2012 until April 16, 2012. Submit your comments, identified by Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-UST-2011-0301, by one of the following methods: www.regulations.gov and follow the on-line instructions for submitting comments or via email to mcdermott.elizabeth@epa.gov 

 

 

Proposed Rule Changes Impacting Chrome Plating Facilities and Steel Pickling Facilities

 

USEPA proposed changes to the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions: Hard and Decorative Chromium Electroplating and Chromium Anodizing Tanks; and Steel Pickling-HCl Process Facilities and Hydrochloric Acid Regeneration Plants, 40 CFR 63 Subpart N and CCC, respectively in the Federal Register on February 8, 2012. This proposal was determined after a new technology review and new residual risk review from the proposed October 21, 2010 proposal.

 

The proposal requires some tighter limits on chrome emissions due to the recent review of existing chromium electroplating facilities. This action also proposes to remove an alternative compliance method for Steel Pickling hydrochloric acid regeneration plants. Finally, this action proposes to incorporate electronic reporting requirements into both NESHAPs. For further information on this rule, please review: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-02-08/pdf/2012-2434.pdf

 

Revised Standards for Aerosol Coatings Industry

 

USEPA finalized changes to the National Volatile Organic Compound Emission Standards for Aerosol Coatings, 40 CFR Part 59, on March 9, 2012. The changes included the addition of Dimethyl Carbonate, Benzotrifluoride, and examethyldisiloxane to the Table of Reactivity Factors in Table 2A and updated the other tables. This rule impacts manufacturers and distributors of aerosol coatings. For more information, please review: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-03-09/pdf/2012-5648.pdf

 

USEPA Proposes National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Secondary Aluminum Production

 

The USEPA is proposing amendments to the NESHAP for Secondary Aluminum Production to address the results of the residual risk and technology review that the USEPA is required to conduct by the Clean Air Act. In addition, the USEPA is proposing amendments to correct and clarify rule requirements and provisions. These proposed amendments would require emission sources to comply with the emission limits at all times including periods of startup and shutdown; add a definition of affirmative defense; add a requirement to report performance testing through the Electronic Reporting Tool (ERT); add rule provisions allowing owners and operators to change furnace classifications; add rule requirements regarding testing of uncontrolled furnaces; add compliance provisions for hydrogen fluoride (HF) for uncontrolled group 1 furnaces; add operating requirements such as monitoring of lime injection rates; and make technical corrections and clarifications to the applicability, definitions, operating, monitoring, and performance testing requirements.

You can get more information on these proposed amendments and the full text of the rule at:

 

http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-02-14/pdf/2012-2874.pdf

 

USEPA Seeking Comments the Proposed Emission Calculation Methods for Specific Combined Animal Feedlot Operations (CAFO) 

 

The USEPA is requesting public comment on draft documents titled, ''Development of Emissions Estimating Methodologies for Broiler Animal Feeding Operations'' and ''Development of Emissions Estimating Methodologies for Lagoons and Basins at Swine and Dairy Animal Feeding Operations.'' These documents contain USEPA's draft emissions estimating methodologies for determining daily and annual emissions from a broiler chicken animal feeding operation and from a lagoon or basin located at a swine or dairy animal feeding operation.

 

Comments must be received on or before June 11, 2012. You can get more information on how to comment on the proposal, along with detailed information on the draft documents and copies of the documents at:

http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-03-13/pdf/2012-5550.pdf

 

 
Training & Events 

 

Evaluation of Visible Emissions Course April 16-18

(Smoke School)

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency will offer a course in the Evaluation of Visible Emissions during the week of April 16, 2012. The class will run from Tuesday, April 17 through Wednesday, April 18, 2012. Class begins at 9:00 AM each morning with registration beginning at approximately 8:00 AM; everyone must sign in one time only.

 

All newcomers attending for initial certification (not recertification) are expected to be present for a lecture session at 1:00 PM on Monday, April 16th; persons recertifying are welcome to attend the lecture as well. The lecture will include discussion of visible emissions and the finer points of reading opacity. The lecture will be held at the Ramada Limited Motel, 3281 Northfield Drive, Springfield, Illinois.

 

The class will be held at the Ramada Limited Motel, 3281 Northfield Drive, Springfield, Illinois. The telephone number is (217) 523-4000. A block of rooms has been set aside for the session, so please mention you are attending "Smoke School" when making your reservations. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency does not charge a fee for this instruction. All participants must arrange for their own meals and lodging; however, all materials necessary for the course will be supplied with the exception of writing tools and a clipboard. Please be reminded this class is held outside, so dress appropriately and bring your own lawn chair.

Please fill out the registration form online at  http://www.epa.state.il.us/air/smoke-school/registration.html prior to April 13, 2012. If you prefer, you may contact Linda Kulek at (217) 524-0546 to receive a registration form by mail. Remember to check the designated box for either certifying the first time or recertifying. If you have any questions, you can reach Kevin Mattison by email or by phone at kevin.mattison@illinois.gov or (847) 294-4019 .     

 

  

  

The Electric Vehicle Forum

 

Join us for a discussion of the potential opportunities and obstacles surrounding electric vehicles.  The American Lung Association is hosting  full day forums (9am - 4pm), to discuss, educate and learn about potential opportunities and obstacles relating to the use of electric vehicles in Illinois. Presenters from different areas throughout the industry will be on hand to share their insights and to answer questions from the audience. Municipal entities, private groups, fleet owners, car dealerships, car rental companies, and the general public are encouraged to attend. Topic areas will include basic electric vehicle terminology and information, recharging options, incentives for today and the future, environmental & health impacts, and local pilot projects.
Dates are:
 
  • April 16, 2012 Governor's Mansion, 410 E. Jackson St.- Springfield, IL
  • May 23, 2012  Moraine Valley Community College, 9000 W College Pkwy,  Palos Hills, IL
  • June 19, 2012  Southwestern Illinois College- Belleville, IL  
  • TBD *a Champaign area forum is also being planned

 

Come Learn About Radon at a Medical Forum June 26, 2012

  

 This summer and fall medical professionals and those that work with the healthcare industry have two opportunities to learn about radon and how this colorless, odorless, radioactive gas affects patients and clients. The first medical forum titled "Lung Cancer and Radon Awareness in Southern Illinois" will be offered at the John A. Logan Conference Center in Carterville, Illinois on June 26, 2012.   This conference is offered by the Southern Illinois Healthcare in conjunction with the Jackson County Medical Society and additional partners.

  

 Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer among smokers and the leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers. The only way to know if radon is present in high concentrations in a home or building is to test. The United States Environmental Protection Agency estimates that radon causes 21,000 radon induced lung cancer deaths each year and over 1,100 in Illinois alone. This conference is designed for medical professionals, social workers, counselors, and others and CMEs, CEUs, CPDUs will be provided. There is no cost for this conference.

 

The second mini medical forum will be a half day event that will be offered on September 28th at the Kroc Center in Quincy, Illinois. This free medical radon update is coordinated through Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and will also offer continuing education to many in the medical community. For more information about radon or these conferences, contact the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Radon Program at 1-800-325-1245 or call 217-782-1325.

 

 

Asthma Forum to Be Held in Chicago June 6-7, 2012

 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Region 5) is hosting a Regional Asthma Forum aimed at exploring the various ways our regional partners are addressing asthma disparities in our communities and neighborhoods. This will provide a unique opportunity for the regional asthma community to share innovative and effective approaches for improving asthma management within Region 5.

 

This Forum will address asthma disparities within the context of environmental justice by examining issues such as:

* Health Care

* Housing

* School Policies

* Community & Cultural Differences

* Outdoor Air Quality

 

This Asthma Forum is designed for representatives from Public Health Departments, Asthma Coalitions, Community Asthma Programs, Healthcare Professionals, Community Health Workers, Tribal representatives and Non-Profit Organizations within Region 5 who have an interest in reducing the burden of asthma. Region 5 includes Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin, and 35 Tribes.

 

Outcomes

  • Discover new and creative asthma initiatives taking place within Region 5
  • Build relationships and create new collaborations
  • Identify and implement sustainable asthma interventions
  • Improve asthma disparities in your communities and high risk neighborhoods

Please register at:www.epa.gov/region5/air/asthma/forum2012.html

For additional information contact Monica Paguia at  paguia.monica@epa.gov or

312-353-1166.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

Environmental Insights:

 

Alec Messina Appointed to the Illinois Compliance Advisory Panel

 

Alec Messina has been appointed by Senator Christine Radagno to serve on the Illinois Compliance Advisory Panel.  Mr. Messina is the Executive Director of the Illinois Environmental Regulatory Group ("IERG"), a non-profit trade association organized to promote and advance the interests of its members in matters involving environmental regulation. Prior to returning to IERG in October of 2010, Mr. Messina served as the Chief Legal Counsel for the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, a position he took in August 2005. Before that, he was IERG's General Counsel from 2001 to 2005. He has also served as special environmental consultant to the Illinois Chamber of Commerce from 2003-2005. Mr. Messina holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of Illinois (1995) and a Juris Doctor degree from Southern Illinois University School of Law (1998).  

 

The Compliance Advisory Panel is responsible for determining the overall effectiveness of the state's Small Business Environmental Assistance Program. The Panel reviews and renders advisory opinions on the effectiveness of the SBEAP and makes periodic progress reports to U.S. EPA concerning compliance of the small business program with other pertinent federal regulations. The CAP also assists the program in making certain information affecting small business is written in a style that is clear and understandable.

 

The CAP is advisory in nature, and the members of the CAP serve without compensation but can receive reimbursement for quarterly meeting expenses. There are seven members of the CAP appointed by the Governor, Legislative Leaders and one by the Illinois EPA. Earlier this year, Representative Tom Holbrook resigned his  CAP appointment by Speaker Madigan to become the Chairman of the Illinois Pollution Control Board.  The Illinois Compliance Advisory Panel currently has the Speaker of the House and Senate President's appointments vacant. The remaining appointments must be filled by individuals who are small business owners or representatives of small business.  The next meeting of the Illinois Compliance Advisory Panel will be held at the IL Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunities Offices, 500 East Monroe, Springfield on April 25th at 1:00 pm and all meetings are open to the public.   

 

  

 Environmental Tips

 

Wait for the storm to pass! Don't fertilize before a rain storm. Your fertilizer - along with your money - can just wash off your lawn and down the storm drain. Fertilizer runoff can pollute rivers, lakes, and bays, and cause problems in recreational areas or fishing grounds. Check the weather forecast before you head out, and wait for the storm to pass.

 

More information on greenscaping is available at:  http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/rrr/greenscapes/owners.htm

Presidential Environmental Youth Award Program


Did You Know, Chicago's Mother McAuley High School Won a Presidential Environmental Youth Award?  

 

Just before the major earthquake that devastated the island nation of Haiti, a group of teenagers, thousands of miles away in Chicago, Illinois, were hard at work developing a solar-powered biodiesel processor for a Haitian school.

The EcoMacs consist of young women from Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School. These PEYA winners developed Operation Haiti with the hopes to bring more economic stability to Pichon, Haiti. The students studied the region, the people and the economy. They took the initiative to learn about the environmental resources available in the village of Pichon, such as the Jathropha plant and constant sun exposure.

 

To utilize the natural resources of Pichon, the students built a solar-powered biodiesel processor and worked with farmers to plant Jathropa whose seed oil can be converted to marketable products. The EcoMacs educated students and faculty at the Pichon School on the process of making soap out of a glycerin by-product and the use of biodiesel in oil lamps.

 

The PEYA competition has two parts - a regional certificate and a regional award. The regional certificate program is conducted year-round. Therefore, applications for this program can be submitted at any time. All qualified applicants will receive a certificate honoring them for their efforts to protect human health and the environment.

 

 

The regional award program, won by Mother McAuley High School,  is conducted once a year. Following the annual December 31 deadline, the regional awards panel for each of EPA's 10 regional offices reviews applications to select the winner. One outstanding project in each of the 10 EPA regions are selected to receive a presidential plaque. For more information about the program visit: http://www.epa.gov/peya/index.html
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