Sorry, you need to enable JavaScript to visit this website.

doee

DOEE
Menu

Annual Ambient Air Monitoring Network Plans


Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Attached below are the 2012 and 2013 Annual Ambient Air Monitoring Network Plans.

Background Information

In 1970, Congress passed the Clean Air Act that authorized the EPA to establish National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for pollutants shown to threaten human health and welfare. Primary standards are set according to criteria designed to protect public health, including an adequate margin of safety to protect sensitive populations such as children and asthmatics. Secondary standards are set according to criteria designed to protect public welfare (decreased visibility, damage to crops, vegetation, and buildings).

EPA established NAAQS for six pollutants- ozone (O3), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), lead (Pb), and particulate matter less than 10 microns aerodynamic diameter, (PM10) and less than 2.5 microns (PM2.5). These are commonly known as the “criteria” pollutants. When air quality does not meet the NAAQS, the area is said to be in “non-attainment” with the NAAQS. You may also visit EPA's website for more information on air quality and the federal NAAQS.