ACTIVIST SUIT SEEKS END TO EPA EXEMPTION FOR REFINERY UPSET EMISSIONS

Environmentalists are suing EPA to try to force the agency to revise its air toxic emissions standards for refineries, and end a long-standing exemption allowing refiners to burn off "upset" emissions like those that build up during refinery malfunctions, without incurring penalties for violations of air permits. However, industry officials say the exemption is necessary in order for refiners to function safely, because upset emissions can be unpredictable and uncontrollable. The industry will oppose any attempt to revise the standards...