What are air quality standards?

Air quality standards refer to the regulations set by government authorities to control the levels of pollutants in the air. These standards are crucial for maintaining public health and protecting the environment from the harmful effects of air pollution.

Criteria pollutants

There are six common criteria pollutants regulated by air quality standards, which are carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, particulate matter, and sulfur dioxide. These pollutants can have severe health impacts on humans and the environment if present in high concentrations.

Regulations and monitoring

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets and enforces air quality standards in the United States. The Clean Air Act provides the framework for establishing emission standards and monitoring air quality levels across the country. Through the use of air quality monitoring stations and the Air Quality Index, regulators can track pollution levels and take action to reduce emissions from various sources.

Importance of air quality standards

Air quality standards are essential for ensuring that individuals are not exposed to harmful pollutants that can cause respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and other health issues. Additionally, these standards help protect ecosystems, wildlife, and the overall environment from the detrimental effects of air pollution.