The argument this time takes the form of clean air advocates vs. metalcasters. 
 

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) is proposing stricter rules for the metalcasters in the San Francisco area in hopes of reducing air pollution. Although still in its infant stages, the proposal has people heated up. 
 

Metalcasters already follow strict environmental standards, and the new rules would mean another significant financial investment, an estimated $20 million per plant, said Pacific Steel Casting worker Barry Scott in a Fox News Oakland KTVU report. This could force some metalcasting facilities to close or at least cut back their staff.
 

The rules, which can be read in full at the BAAQMD website, aim to reduce the impact of steam emissions on the surrounding community. Although air quality in the bay area has improved over the years, it isn’t up to the new U.S. government standards, thus the new proposal, according to the report.

The BAAQMD report sites specific techniques and practices it wants the metalcasters to adopt, as well as listing the specific plants the proposal would influence. 
 

The next step is for the BAAQMD to conduct one or more public workshops to receive input and public comments on the proposal before the final proposed amendments are brought for consideration at a public hearing before the District’s Board of Directors.  
 

The workshops should draw people of diverse backgrounds lobbying for sustainability for one of two platforms: sustainability for an industry that has provided every day conveniences that people rarely think twice about and sustainability for the environment and the pleasure of being able to take a deep breath of fresh air.