Architectural Coatings: National Volatile Organic Compounds Emission Standards
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Rule Summary
This final rule is based on the Administrator’s determination that VOC emissions from the use of architectural coatings have the potential to cause or contribute to ozone levels that violate the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for ozone.
Ozone is a major component of smog which causes negative health and environmental impacts when present in high concentrations at ground level. The final rule is estimated to reduce VOC emissions by 103,000 megagrams per year (Mg/yr) (113,500 tons per year [tpy]) by requiring manufacturers and importers to limit the VOC content of architectural coatings.
Rule History
02/16/2000 – Final Rule; Amendments (65 FR 7736)
06/30/1999 – Final Rule; Corrections and Amendments (64 FR 34997)
06/15/1999 – Federal Register Correction (64 FR 32103)
10/14/1998 – Federal Register Correction (63 FR 55175)
09/11/1998 – Final Rule (63 FR 48848)
09/03/1996 – Correction of Proposed Rule; Extension of Public Comment Period (61 FR 46410)
06/25/1996 – Proposed Rule (61 FR 32729)
Additional Resources
1998 Final Air Regulation for Architectural Coatings Fact Sheet
Background for Promulgated Standards
Response To Comments On Section 183(e) Study and Report To Congress