North Carolina can now measure sulfur dioxide emissions differently

North Carolina wants to change how it measures sulfur dioxide pollution from power plants and factories. The US environmental regulators are proposing to approve this new method, which could make it easier for the state to meet clean air standards.

For years, states had to use specific methods to measure pollution, which could be rigid and not always reflect real-world conditions. This change means North Carolina can use a more flexible approach, potentially allowing some facilities to operate differently while still meeting overall air quality goals. It also sets a precedent for other states seeking similar flexibility in how they track emissions.