1. EPA PROPOSES LOWERING PM STANDARDS.
- Subjects
- *
EMISSION standards , *AIR quality , *ENVIRONMENTAL policy , *ENVIRONMENTAL protection , *ENVIRONMENTAL health , *ENVIRONMENTAL auditing , *ENVIRONMENTAL engineering , *APPLIED ecology - Abstract
The article reports on the proposal of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to lower standards for particulate matter (PM). The proposed modifications will substantially tighten short-term exposure to high levels of fine PM by almost 50%. Inhalable PM 24-hour standard is also being proposed for reduction to 70 micrograms per cubic meter. Research has demonstrated a link between PM and various cardiovascular and respiratory problems. The Clean Air Act mandates the EPA to undertake a periodic review of air quality standards. Particle standards were last updated in 1997.
- Published
- 2006