API statement on EPA proposed ozone standard announcement

WASHINGTON, January 7, 2010 – The American Petroleum Institute issued the following statement today on EPA’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on the 2008 ozone standard:

“The action lacks scientific justification. EPA acknowledges the newer studies on ozone ‘do not materially change any of the broad scientific conclusions regarding the health effects of exposure’. Given that conclusion, there is absolutely no basis for EPA to propose changing the ozone standards promulgated by the EPA Administrator in 2008. To do so is an obvious politicization of the air quality standard setting process that could mean unnecessary energy cost increases, job losses and less domestic oil and natural gas development and energy security.

“Since 1990, the oil and gas industry has invested more than $175 billion towards improving the environmental performance of its products, facilities, and operations, and many of the investments in cleaner fuels will continue to improve air quality in the years ahead.”