The Engine Manufacturers Association (EMA) responded positively to the proposed new emission standards for small land based nonroad engines in a rulemaking recently announced by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

If finalized and implemented as proposed, the new requirements for small spark ignition engines will dramatically reduce emissions. EMA is committed to working with EPA to ensure that these stringent, technology forcing standards are finalized in a manner consistent with the unique and practical aspects of the cost sensitive and diverse product market in which they operate. The new rule is significant because it represents both further large reductions in exhaust emissions and new controls of evaporative emissions for these nonroad engines and the equipment they power.

"Our initial assessment is that EPA has proposed an aggressive but implementable program to make further emission reductions a reality for the small spark ignition engine and equipment industries," said Jed Mandel, EMA President. "Engine manufacturers are committed to develop and modify existing engine technologies to meet the new, stringent small spark ignition engine emission standards that EPA has proposed. Meeting the substantial emission reductions called for in EPA's proposal will be a challenging goal," Mr. Mandel continued. "The small spark ignition engine industry market imposes significant challenges in terms of reliability, equipment space and weight constraints, and engine operating temperatures combined with an extremely price sensitive consumer product basis."

EMA and its members provided valuable information to EPA regarding small spark ignition engines and emission control technologies, and met with EPA technical staff to discuss the potential emission reductions that might be achievable for the small spark ignition sector. "We are pleased with the responsiveness of EPA staff and their willingness to engage with stakeholders. Although there may be some need for technical changes to the draft rule, the overall approach, proposed emissions levels, and implementation schedule appear to be workable," concluded Mandel.

EMA will prepare written comments on the proposed rule and is committed to working with EPA to assure a smooth transition to the new emission standards.

The Engine Manufacturers Association is the trade association representing worldwide manufacturers of internal combustion engines used in applications such as trucks and buses, farm and construction equipment, locomotives, marine vessels, and lawn, garden and utility equipment.