Air Quality

DDOE's Air Quality Division works to protect the health and welfare of the District of Columbia's citizens, millions of visitors, and natural environment by reducing the concentration of pollutants in the air in accordance with DC regulations and federal Clean Air Act and Clean Air Act Amendments requirements.

Air Monitoring & Assessment 

The Monitoring and Assessment Branch (MAB) is a collection of scientists, technicians and specialists who measure pollutants in the District's ambient air on a regular basis.

Air Pollutants and Standards

The Clean Air Act and its amendments signify concern with two broad categories of air pollutants: CAPS and HAPS.

Ambient Air Quality Monitoring

A 24-hour ambient air monitoring network keeps track of pollutant levels in the District's air. Our staff operates and maintains five different monitoring stations and pollutant-specific equipment, collects samples, conducts monitoring studies, and reports data to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Air Quality Data Assessment and Analysis

We track air quality trends over time and report them to EPA. We also provide real time air quality conditions (air quality forecasts, advisories, and Air Quality Index) to the public on a regular basis.

Air Quality Index

Even though air quality is improving throughout the region, the standard for measuring ozone has become more stringent. On March 12, 2008, EPA revised its Air Quality Index (AQI) for ozone to reflect these changes. As a result, District residents may notice more Code Red and Code Orange days than in previous years.

Air Quality Inspections, Investigations, and Enforcement

Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance

DDOE staff conducts performance audits and program monitoring to measure how effectively the Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Program controls pollution.

Resources for Residents

Regulations and Laws

Air: Regulatory & Legislative Affairs

Strategies to Mitigate Air Pollution

Environmental Research: