The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has adopted new Emissions Factor (AP-42) data for “concrete batching” located in Chapter 11.12, part of the sector category Mineral Products Industry.

The changes are a direct result of new data gathered through an RMC Research Foundation study that demonstrated that air emissions from ready mixed concrete manufacturing were significantly lower than the data previously used by EPA. Professional staff at the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association used this new data to successfully advocate for these changes; EPA’s data had not been updated since 1995.

“The ready mixed concrete industry is committed to superior environmental stewardship,” said RMC Research Foundation Chairman Christopher Crouch.

“Advancements in technology have allowed our industry to stay ahead of the game when working to protect the environment and, ultimately, the welfare of our employees and those in the communities we serve. The RMC Research Foundation provides the resources to support research that can replace outdated or flawed data that may be used to regulate our industry,” he added.

Foundation Executive Director Julie Luther noted, “EPA’s decision to revise AP-42 Chapter 11.12 to incorporate our data is a win for the industry not only for highlighting its positive environmental activities but in the resulting reduction in fees associated with securing and maintaining air permits since state and local governments use EPA’s data for determining such fees.”

The mission of the RMC Research Foundation is to support research and educational programs that will advance and improve the concrete industry.

For more information, visit www.rmc-foundation.org.