Strong Safeguards from Particulate Pollution Needed

The American Lung Association just released a report showing that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) proposed standards for particulate matter are too weak and could leave more than 77 million people vulnerable to hazardous air pollution.

The report echoes what the EPA's own scientific advisors have said: strengthen the safeguards needed to protect children and communities from harmful particulate pollution. In fact, under a proposal supported not just by EPA science advisors, but medical, health, and environmental groups across the country, including Rocky Mountain Clean Air Action, over 159 million people would receive greater protection from particulate pollution.

The EPA is slated to decide new particulate pollution standards by September 27, 2006. The agency has a chance to adopt a stronger particulate standard. With so many people's health on the line, hopefully the agency will listen to scientists and the needs of citizens. Check out our earlier post for more information on particulate pollution in Colorado.