Environment

Cincinnati-based startup Cincy Carbon is developing electrochemical technology that turns captured carbon dioxide into industrial chemicals used in manufacturing, creating a lower-carbon alternative to traditional production. Led by CEO Molly Rizkallah, the company is designing its system to plug into existing industrial operations so manufacturers can reuse emissions as feedstock without major equipment changes. The process can produce materials such as formic acid and other chemical inputs commonly used on the factory floor. The effort highlights how Ohio firms are pursuing practical, production-ready innovations that cut emissions while strengthening domestic chemical manufacturing and supply chains. 1/26/2026

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is moving to reconsider the fine particulate matter (PM2.5) standard after manufacturers warned the tighter rule could expand nonattainment areas and slow permits for new and expanding factories. The Biden administration lowered the annual PM2.5 standard from 12 to nine micrograms per cubic meter in 2024, a change that industry groups said would significantly widen the number of counties subject to stricter federal air quality requirements.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the agency plans to revisit the standard, citing concerns about economic impacts and regulatory uncertainty. Manufacturers have argued the rule could make it harder to site and grow facilities without delivering proportional environmental gains.

“Manufacturers support clean air, but standards also need to be workable,” said James Lee, Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) managing director of public policy services. “When rules expand nonattainment areas without clear permitting guidance, they risk slowing investment and job growth without delivering meaningful environmental gains.”

The OMA has raised similar concerns, warning that expanded nonattainment designations could delay industrial projects and weaken Ohio’s competitiveness. OMA has engaged Ohio EPA and federal officials on implementation issues, urged clearer permitting guidance, and advocated for a balanced approach that protects air quality while allowing job-creating investments to move forward.

The OMA is inviting manufacturers to engage with the Ohio EPA on additional exceptional events demonstrations aimed at maintaining Ohio’s attainment status for PM2.5 standards. Companies interested in participating can contact James Lee for details on upcoming meetings and opportunities to engage. 1/27/2026

Ohio’s pending request for action by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the Cleveland ozone area has direct consequences for manufacturers in northeast Ohio, where regulatory certainty is critical to investment, permitting and job growth. In a Jan. 14 letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, Gov. Mike DeWine cited certified 2023–2025 air quality data showing the region meets the 2015 ozone standard and outlined steps Ohio has taken to satisfy federal requirements.

At the center of the issue is certainty. Extended nonattainment status can complicate permitting, delay expansion projects and inject unnecessary risk into business decisions even when air quality standards are being met. The letter also highlights concerns that recent court rulings could slow redesignation timelines and impose new requirements without delivering additional environmental benefit. Manufacturers continue to emphasize the need for science-based standards and timely regulatory decisions that support competitiveness and long-term growth.

To help protect regulatory headroom, the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association is seeking manufacturers willing to engage with the Ohio EPA on additional exceptional events demonstrations to keep Ohio in attainment for both ozone and PM2.5 standards. Manufacturers interested in participating should contact James Lee for details on upcoming meetings and engagement opportunities. 1/20/2026

A consumer watchdog group says major retailers are selling products online that may violate Maine’s expanded ban on items containing intentionally added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a class of chemicals often referred to as “forever chemicals.” The restrictions, which took effect Jan. 1, are among the most expansive state-level product bans enacted to date.

Maine is one of several progressive states advancing aggressive PFAS policies that often move faster than federal standards. Maine and Minnesota are the first states to ban thousands of everyday products containing PFAS chemicals. For Ohio manufacturers selling into national markets, the resulting patchwork of state requirements can complicate product design, sourcing and compliance across complex supply chains.

“The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association continues to track PFAS developments nationwide and engage policymakers on the need for clear, consistent and science-based standards that protect health and the environment without creating unworkable compliance burdens for manufacturers,” said James Lee, OMA managing director of public policy services. 1/13/2026

A new analysis from the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability finds that many companies significantly undercount emissions tied to global supply chains by relying on U.S.-centric assumptions in their disclosures. When researchers adjusted estimates to reflect where suppliers actually operate, they identified nearly a billion tons of uncounted emissions from Chinese suppliers alone across more than 400 companies in 2023.

Much of the gap involves Scope 3 emissions, the indirect emissions generated across a company’s value chain, including suppliers, transportation, product use and end-of-life disposal. Scope 3 often represents the largest share of total emissions reported by manufacturers. The findings underscore rising reporting, compliance and competitiveness risks for Ohio manufacturers as customers, investors and regulators demand more accurate emissions data across global supply chains. 1/13/2026

Federal environmental policy could shift significantly in 2026 as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency plans to continue rolling back key climate and emissions regulations. According to Chemical & Engineering News, the agency is prioritizing actions this year to rescind the 2009 endangerment finding that underlies many federal climate rules and to delay vehicle pollution standards initially set by the previous administration.

These federal changes could ripple to Ohio, where consistent national standards help prevent a patchwork of differing rules that can increase compliance costs and regulatory complexity for manufacturers. The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association will track these developments and share updates with members as potential state and industry impacts become clearer. 1/7/2026

According to Cleveland.com, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has declined to approve Ohio’s proposal to change the E-Check vehicle emissions testing program in Northeast Ohio, leaving the current system in place. Federal officials blocked a state plan that would have reduced in-person testing requirements, saying it did not meet Clean Air Act standards for the Cleveland area, which remains classified as a serious nonattainment region for ozone. State leaders supporting the change said E-Check imposes unnecessary costs on drivers and businesses and does not reflect modern vehicle technology or emissions performance. The EPA said Ohio must demonstrate equivalent emissions reductions before any revisions can be approved. The decision slows Ohio’s effort to modernize its compliance approach and adds uncertainty for manufacturers and employers operating in a region already facing significant regulatory and economic pressures. 12/16/2025

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) last week submitted formal comments to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency supporting the state’s proposed redesignation of the Cleveland area to attainment for the 2015 ozone standard. The association also backed the agency’s Exceptional Events Demonstration related to 2023 ozone spikes driven by wildfire smoke.

OMA said the wildfire impacts were outside manufacturers’ control and should not be used to evaluate local air quality progress. The group also supported the Midwest Ozone Group’s technical comments, underscoring industry backing for data-driven ozone decisions.

OMA said the action is needed to ensure manufacturers are not penalized for ozone exceedances caused by natural events, a step it argues will support regulatory certainty and continued economic growth. 12/10/2025

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has submitted a nitrogen oxides control plan for Cleveland-Cliffs’ Cleveland Works facility to the U.S. EPA for review and inclusion in Ohio’s air-quality plan. The filing, required under the 2015 federal ozone standard, outlines steps the state expects the facility to take to reduce nitrogen oxides emissions. The Ohio EPA says the submission is part of its ongoing effort to meet federal air rules, strengthen ozone compliance and address emissions from major industrial sources across the state. 12/1/2025

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) pleased to share that photos from last week’s OMA/OESI Environmental Summit are now available for members to view and download. The gallery captures the day’s highlights, including remarks from federal and state environmental leaders, full policy briefings and the cross-sector conversations that helped shape Ohio’s environmental priorities. It is an easy way to revisit the energy in the room and highlight your organization’s participation.

Members are encouraged to use these images across social media, internal newsletters, presentations and outreach materials. The photos offer ready-made content to showcase your commitment to environmental stewardship and to reinforce the value of the summit within your organization and community.

Click here to explore the full collection and revisit the moments, connections and conversations that continue to drive Ohio’s environmental and regulatory strategy. 11/21/2025

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency has formally asked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to remove Ohio’s “Air Nuisance Rule” from the state’s federally approved clean‑air plan. Required under House Bill 96, the move would end federal enforceability of the rule while keeping it fully enforceable at the state level.

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) played a central role in shaping the bill, working with lawmakers and regulators to ensure manufacturers’ concerns were addressed. By engaging throughout the legislative process, rulemaking and public‑comment period, the OMA helped secure a practical, predictable approach that better reflects real‑world manufacturing operations. 11/19/2025

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) is pressing for clear rules as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under Administrator Lee Zeldin, moves to redefine “waters of the United States,” or WOTUS, a key term that dictates which rivers, streams and wetlands fall under federal Clean Water Act jurisdiction.

The proposal seeks to bring federal oversight in line with the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2023 Sackett v. EPA ruling and end years of shifting interpretations that manufacturers say have slowed projects and investment.

OMA and national partners have long demanded a practical, predictable WOTUS standard. In December 2024, the group joined a manufacturing coalition letter urging regulators to modernize rules they argue are stifling growth.

“As the EPA revises the rule, the OMA will continue advocating for a final definition that protects water resources while supporting expansion and job creation in Ohio’s manufacturing sector,” said James Lee, OMA managing director of public policy services. 11/19/2025

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) urged Congress this week to advance the bipartisan SPEED Act, saying the measure would cut red tape and give industry clearer timelines for major projects. In a letter to the House Natural Resources Committee, the group said the bill aligns federal law with Supreme Court precedent, strengthens judicial review and confirms NEPA’s role as a procedural statute. OMA said the reforms would slash delays, lower costs and help Ohio manufacturers break ground faster, boosting investment and competitiveness. 11/19/2025

More than 100 manufacturing leaders, regulators and environmental professionals gathered in Columbus yesterday for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association’s (OMA) Environmental Summit, hosted in partnership with the Ohio Environmental Service Industries (OESI). The event focused on policies, partnerships and technologies shaping environmental progress in Ohio.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 Administrator Anne Vogel delivered the keynote address, outlining federal priorities under the theme “Powering the Great American Comeback.” Vogel highlighted efforts to restore U.S. energy dominance, streamline permitting, advance AI leadership, revitalize American auto manufacturing and strengthen federal and state cooperation. She also emphasized the role of energy independence in lowering costs and reducing reliance on foreign adversaries.

Vogel pointed to Ohio projects including redevelopment at the former Perfect Products site in Malvern, cleanup work at the Cuyahoga Gorge Dam in Akron and environmental progress at the Great Stone Viaduct brownfield in Bellaire as examples of how environmental restoration and economic growth can advance together.

Ohio EPA Director John Logue and agency division chiefs provided updates on air, water and waste programs, emphasizing new compliance and sustainability initiatives for manufacturers.

OMA President Ryan Augsburger said Ohio manufacturers are proving that clean growth is real growth, driven by collaboration and practical policy.

OESI President Jeff Hunyor praised the strong partnership with Ohio EPA and said the organization looks forward to expanding collaboration with federal regulators to support safe, innovative environmental practices statewide. 11/14/2025

When it comes to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), regulations are important, but they’re not the whole story. Organizations are realizing that to stay competitive and protect their brand, PFAS strategies need to also be driven by market forces. BSI highlights six business-driven considerations you should be thinking about for effective PFAS risk management, identification and mitigation. 11/10/2025

The Ohio Manufacturers Association (OMA) received a letter from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Region 5 office acknowledging OMA’s comments on Ohio’s air nuisance rule. The agency noted the state budget provision, advanced through OMA advocacy, that requires the Ohio EPA to remove the rule from its state implementation plan. The federal agency said it will begin its review once the Ohio EPA submits its plan revision, following the state’s recent public comment period and hearing. 11/5/2025

Today is the final day to register for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association’s (OMA) Environmental Summit, presented in partnership with the Ohio Environmental Service Industries. The event will be held Thurs., Nov. 13, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Athletic Club of Columbus.

Because environmental regulations are among the many challenges faced by manufacturers, the OMA helps members stay informed through timely updates, regular committee meetings and other learning opportunities. The OMA connects members with subject-matter experts who understand manufacturing and the regulatory landscape.

Featured speakers for next week’s event include Anne Vogel, Region 5 administrator for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and John Logue, director of the Ohio EPA. The program will include policy updates, briefings from Ohio EPA division chiefs and a networking reception beginning at 4 p.m.

“Now’s the time to register,” said James Lee, OMA managing director of public policy. “This summit brings together top industry leaders, policymakers and regulatory experts shaping Ohio’s future.” 11/7/2025

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is developing new rules under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act to address end-of-life management of solar panels and lithium-ion batteries.

According to the Vorys Energy & Environmental Law Blog, the proposal would classify discarded solar panels as universal waste, simplifying recycling and disposal requirements. It also would create a new universal waste category for lithium batteries, reflecting their fire and chemical risks.

A notice of proposed rulemaking is expected in early 2026, with final action anticipated by mid-2027. Manufacturers are encouraged to track the process and prepare for changes affecting clean-energy materials management. The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association will continue to keep members informed as the rulemaking moves forward. 10/29/2025

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) has rescheduled its Dec. 11 Environment Committee meeting. Instead, OMA will host a special Environmental Summit in partnership with the Ohio Environmental Service Industries.

The event is scheduled for Thurs., Nov. 13, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Athletic Club of Columbus. This in-person-only summit will bring together industry leaders, regulators and environmental experts.

Guest speakers include Anne Vogel, Region 5 administrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and John Logue, director, Ohio EPA.

Program highlights feature federal and state environmental policy updates; insights from EPA officials; briefings from invited Ohio EPA division chiefs; and a networking reception starting at 4 p.m.

Register now for the event. 10/22/2025

Recent reports indicate that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s proposal to repeal federal vehicle emissions standards is raising significant concern among several states — particularly Democratic-led states like California, Oregon and Washington.These states warn that eliminating national standards could jeopardize their ability to meet Clean Air Act requirements.

Without consistent federal regulations, states may implement their own climate and air-quality rules, potentially resulting in a fragmented regulatory landscape. Industry groups and state officials caution that such a patchwork of mandates could increase compliance costs, disrupt supply chains, and create uncertainty for long-term investment decisions.

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association continues to closely monitor these developments to help ensure that Ohio manufacturers are not burdened by conflicting or duplicative environmental regulations. 10/16/2025