EPA Establishes Stricter Air Quality Standard
15 February 2024 • Article Summary
Facility Executive
U.S. EPA tightens soot, i.e. particulate matter "PM2.5", pollution limits, expecting major health benefits. New EPA standard aims to prevent 4,500 premature deaths and billions in healthcare costs. A stronger focus is put on monitoring pollution in disadvantaged areas. The change does not apply to all particle types, e.g. PM10 24-hour standards remain unchanged.
99% of U.S. counties are projected to meet stricter standard by 2032, the year penalties for standard violations come into effect. An improved air quality index ("AQI") will communicate health risks more clearly, especially in respect of PM2.5 complementing the regulatory change.