#USA #Alexandria #NATSO #SIGMA #NACS

Fuel Retailers Advocate for EPA to Maintain Emission Reduction Achievements

In Alexandria, Virginia, major players in the fuel retail market, including NATSO, SIGMA, and the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS), are raising their voices to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They are requesting the EPA to reconsider the proposed adjustments to regulations affecting diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) and the incentives framework associated with it. The groups are emphasizing the importance of preserving the guidance that has enabled significant reductions in nitrogen oxide emissions from heavy-duty vehicles since 2010.

Context of the Issue

With the advent of Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology paired with DEF, the fuel industry has seen a remarkable 76% decline in nitrogen oxide emissions. This success story is pivotal for promoting environmentally friendly practices within the trucking sector, and stakeholders believe that disrupting the current guidelines could jeopardize these achievements. The associations argue that the current regulatory framework has led to the establishment of a robust DEF distribution network across the country, ultimately benefiting both the economy and the environment.

David Fialkov, the Executive Director of Government Affairs for NATSO and SIGMA, commented on the existing framework, noting that it has spurred significant investment in infrastructure for DEF distribution, thereby creating a reliable market.

The Potential Implications of Regulatory Changes

The proposed changes by the EPA have raised concerns among retailers that it could hinder the growth and availability of DEF. If seen as optional by drivers, demand for DEF could plummet, resulting in a potential increase in prices and a reduction in its availability. This would directly contradict the EPA's intentions of promoting compliance with emissions standards, leaving compliant drivers and operators in a vulnerable position.

The associations are urging EPA to allow the guidance from August 2025 and March 2026 to take full effect in the market before making significant changes to diesel engine inducement requirements. They also stress the need for clarity on the ongoing requirements concerning DEF and SCR, specifically highlighting that operating SCR-equipped engines without DEF can cause damage to the vehicle.

Recommendations to the EPA

In their statement, NATSO, SIGMA, and NACS have put forth several recommendations for the EPA, including:

• - Market Penetration: Allow the existing guidance to fully penetrate the market before any amendments to diesel engine inducement requirements are made.
• - Clear Communication: Ensure clarity that DEF remains a requirement, alongside robust enforcement actions for non-compliance, which could include penalties for manufacturers that do not adhere to DEF guidelines.
• - Repair Access: Expand access to low-cost vehicle repairs addressing common DEF sensor faults, which are frequently encountered issues.

Fialkov further stated, "The examples set by SCR and DEF technologies showcase how targeted innovation can lead to substantial environmental gains through existing refueling infrastructures."

Moving Forward: Industry Support for EPA Collaboration

Both NATSO, SIGMA, and NACS are keen to engage with the EPA in a constructive dialogue tailored to achieving effective regulatory reforms. They stress that such reforms should be grounded in evidence and must prioritize maintaining the availability of DEF while keeping costs manageable for consumers.

As industry leaders advocate for the existing guidance to remain intact, they continue to represent the collective interests of fuel retailers, ensuring momentum toward greener practices and the preservation of environmental progress made in recent years. The call to action underscores the industry’s commitment to environmental stewardship while safeguarding their operational interests and supporting compliance for commercial trucking across the nation.