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Showing posts with label shafter fresno. Show all posts
Showing posts with label shafter fresno. Show all posts

Monday, February 17, 2020

CARB approves first ever AB 617 emission reduction plans for Fresno and Shafter

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) recently announced its approval of two emission reduction plans for the San Joaquin Valley. The plans will affect the communities of South Central Fresno and Shafter, two areas significantly impacted by air pollution.

AB 617 Target Areas, Photo Credit - CARB

Assembly Bill 617 requires that these Community Emissions Reduction Programs to identify, monitor and reduce air pollutants of specific concern to each location. 

“These two emission reduction plans are only the beginning of the focused efforts to cut air pollution in the communities of Shafter and South Fresno,” said CARB Executive Officer Richard Corey. “The next step is turning the plans into actions on the ground. CARB stands ready to work with the communities, air district and others to provide continued support and rigorous oversight to make sure the plans adopted today deliver on their promise of healthier air for all.”

The San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) helped gather together residents, businesses, air regulators, and other stakeholders to form steering committees that developed specific emissions reduction strategies for the two areas. 

“We applaud the action taken by the California Air Resources Board to approve the Community Emission Reduction Programs for the communities of Shafter and South Central Fresno,” stated Samir Sheikh Executive Director/Air Pollution Control Officer of the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. “We look forward to working closely with these communities to reduce air pollution and improve quality of life for community residents.”

Emission sources targeted include:

  • Passenger cars
  • Residential energy use
  • Urban sources
  • Heavy-duty trucks
  • Industrial and agricultural sources including pesticides
  • Oil and gas operations
  • Fugitive dust

To address AB 617 requirements, CARB created the Office of Community Air Protection (OCAP). More information on OCAP may be found at this link: Community Air Protection Blueprint