By the OGJ Online Staff
HOUSTON, Jan. 8 -- The Canadian government has begun a 60-day public comment period on draft regulations that would reduce sulfur content of diesel fuel by 95% to a 15 ppm maximum.
The proposals, which would align with the US's diesel requirement timeline, are part of Canada's Clean Air Agenda.
Environment Minister David Anderson, said, "Combined with new, more stringent vehicle emission requirements to be proposed early next year and low sulfur gasoline regulations which start next summer, the new rules for low sulfur diesel fuel will help protect the health of Canadians by significantly reducing air pollution."
After the 60-day period, the department will complete and publish the regulations.
The 15-ppm limit would be effective June 1, 2006, for producers and importers and Sept. 1, 2006, for most sellers. The delay will allow for a diesel supply turnover. In Arctic regions, the limit on sales would come into effect a year later to allow for a slower turnover and to reflect logistical difficulties.
