Application of Linear Programming to a Controversy on Air Pollution Control

Abstract

A linear programming model for air pollution abatement is presented. It is based on the simplifying assumption that air quality goals may be expressed as maximum allowable emission flows in an airshed. The solution of the model for the St. Louis Airshed is examined to evaluate certain charges that it is economically infeasible for purposes of air pollution control to impose restrictions on the sulfur content of coal. It is found that such a regulation is justified for certain types of stokers but not others, that furnaces with a heating efficiency of 75% or less should be converted to natural gas. Uncertainty over certain key parameters precludes judgment as to whether the use of low sulfur coal is optimal for pulverized coal furnaces.