Amendment of the Ordinance on Air Pollution Control
Due to the Ukraine conflict, supply difficulties with emission-inhibiting chemicals could be imminent. In exceptional cases, the cantons are now to be able to set milder emission limits in the course of a new ordinance.
Gas and energy are needed to produce certain chemicals such as ammonia, urea, which mitigate emissions of harmful nitrogen oxides. Due to the uncertain supply situation in Europe because of the Ukraine war, supply shortages could be imminent. If these substances are missing, some plants such as wood-fired power plants, waste incineration plants or cement plants could no longer comply with their minimum emission limits.
Higher emissions only in exceptional cases
Therefore, on December 16, 2022, the Federal Council adopted an amendment to the Air Pollution Control Ordinance (LVR) adopted. This gives the cantons the possibility to increase the emission limits for a limited period of time. However, the operator must be able to demonstratethat it is currently no longer able to obtain the necessary chemicals. After that, it is always up for discussion whether a reduced operation of a plant can also be considered. The shutdown of a plant must also be considered as an option. Only if one of the two measures can no longer be implemented can cantons allow higher emissions.
Source: Bund/Editorial
