Maximum Available Control Technology MACT requirement

The USEPA is responsible for creating and enforcing the NESHAPs for all hazardous air pollutant sources. The CAA states that new or existing major sources must have emission standards based on the maximum available control technology (M ACT) to reduce hazardous air pollutant emissions. The MACT standards are based on the performance of the best 12% of the control devices in the same source category. These MACT emissions requirements were extended in 1997 to cover wastewater biosolid incinerators at publicly owned treatment works (POTWs) that have the potential to discharge cadmium, lead, and mercury (Richman, 1997). 

It should be noted that the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA) have impacted on the control approach in a significant manner. In particular, the CAAA have placed an increased emphasis on control technology by requiring Best Available Control Technology (BACT) on new major sources and modifications, and by requiring Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) on new and eodsting major sources of Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs). 

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