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EPA Finalizes Rule of Fine Particle Air Pollution

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April 4, 2007

The level of fine particle air pollution fails to meet national air quality standards in 39 areas of the country.  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently finalized The Clean Air Fine Particle Implementation Rule which provides guidance to states to reduce fine particle pollution, also known as PM 2.5.

EPA regulates particulate matter (PM) because it has potentially harmful health effects when inhaled.  For example, PM exposure has been linked to aggravation of asthma, bronchitis, and heart attack.  Particulate matter can be composed of acids, organic chemicals, metals, and dust or soil.  EPA regulates two categories of particulate matter, course and fine.  Course particulate matter (PM10) is particles that are 10 micrometers and smaller and found near roads and dusty industries such as construction.  Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is particle pollution that is 2.5 micrometers and smaller and is emitted from forest fires, power plants, industries and automobiles. 

EPA established national air quality standards for PM2.5 in 1997.  It subsequently monitored the air in numerous locations throughout the country and designated areas as either being in "attainment" for the air quality standards or in "nonattainment."  The designation of attainment or nonattainment status became effective in 2005. 

Now that EPA has issued its new rule, states have until April 2008 to create state implementation plans that describe how the state plans to reduce fine particle pollution in areas of the state designated as nonattainment for PM2.5 standards.  If states do not submit state implementation plans, EPA will develop a plan on their behalf.  While states have until 2010 to meet the PM2.5 standards, they can seek approval from EPA for an extension until 2015.

EPA has received considerable criticism over the years for not releasing the implementation guidelines sooner.  After all, the PM2.5 national air quality standards were issued in 1997.  As reason for the delay, EPA cites various legal challenges and extensions of time to collect additional air quality monitoring data.  EPA revised the national air quality standards for PM again in 2006 making them more strict; however, the new Clean Air Fine Particle Implementation Rule does not address those revised standards.

Information on EPA's PM2.5 Rule

 Air Quality