Regulatory and Legislative
Top Composites News in August
During summer we understand it's always hard to stay abreast with breaking news,. After all, it requires taking off those sunglasses, turning of the bbq and going back indoors to turn on a computer (or phone). But that's okay, we've got you covered! It doesn't mean you have to miss what everyone else in... »
Q&A: AWEA CEO Says it’s Time for the U.S. to Step-Up Production
Denise Bode is CEO of the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA). She is a nationally recognized energy policy expert and has more than 30 years experience in the energy field, including DEO of the American Clean Skies Foundation, President of the Independent Petroleum Association of America and a tax partner in a D.C.-based law... »
Composite Manufacturers Discuss Styrene with Calif. Legislators
Cal-EPA has proposed to regulate styrene as a carcinogen. ACMA contends that the proposal is the result of a partial and biased review of the available data: Both the European Union and an international "blue ribbon" expert panel recently reviewed extensive styrene health data and determined that styrene is not likely to cause cancer... »
Emissions Rules Take Effect for Composite Manufacturers
In April, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) jointly established new federal rules that set the first-ever national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards for all new passenger cars and light trucks sold in the United States. The rules, which will significantly increase the fuel economy of the... »
Composites Manufacturer Wins SBA Award
President Scott Lewit of Florida-based Compsys, a manufacturer of composite performs, received the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 2010 Perseverance Award. According to the SBA, Lewit won the award for his dedication, drive and determination to help Compsys recover from damages of Tropical Storm Fay. During the summer of 2008, Compsys was flooded by... »
Composites Regulatory Threats on the Horizon
The composites industry faces a number of emerging threats, including increased regulation of styrene/polyester resin use. A newly available reference chart, created by ACMA’s Director of Government Affairs John Schweitzer, provides an analysis of emerging regulatory threats. “We developed the chart based on the issues we track in Congress, regulatory agencies and states,” explains... »
Composites in the News Last Week
Under the U.S. financial Reform Bill, which is about to become law, auto, marine and RV dealers will be excluded from the new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Speaking of dealers, the Small Business Administration Dealer Floor Plan program is set to end in September if an extension doesn’t pass. »
Hopes and Fears of the Marine Industry
According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), there are key issues on the minds of marine manufactures in 2010; namely, economic stability and regulatory issues. “We were obviously hard hit last year,” explains John McKnight, director of environmental and safety compliance and director of government relations for NMMA. “Last year, a large percentage... »
Q&A: Technical Knowledge Sells Composites, says Award-Winning Manufacturer
John Hillman developed the hybrid-composite beam (HCB), a bridge beam using a combination of fiberglass, steel and concrete. Eventually, he formed the HC Bridge Company with the purpose of commercializing this new technology. He was recently named 2010 Innovator of the Year by Engineering News-Record. »
Composites in the News Last Week
The infrastructure industry was looking a little green this week, as New Polymer Systems Inc. announced it plans to commercialize a bio-based additive from lignocellulose fiber for use in landscaping, roofing and drainage pipes applications. Meanwhile, fiberglass siding may soon become a more widespread option for residential homeowners. The National Association of Home Builders... »
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