The Portland Cement Association and its members announced that they support the Clear Skies Act of 2005 (S. 131), which was introduced by senators James Inhofe (R-OK) and George Voinovich (R-OH) on January 24. The bill promises dramatic reductions of emissions of NOx, SO2, and mercury from electric power plants and other sources.

Though participation by cement plants and other non-utility sources is not required, these facilities will be able voluntarily to reduce emissions and participate in the market-based emission trading program. The act also will benefit participating facilities by simplifying the myriad of existing regulations currently addressing NOx, SO2, and mercury emissions.

Facilities participating in the program will face the investment of expensive emission control equipment. However, the program's environmental benefit provides incentives for emission reductions beyond those required at facilities where the most cost-effective reductions can be achieved.