EPA Strengthens Nitrogen Dioxide Rules for First Time in 35 Years
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced a new "one-hour standard" aimed at limiting Americans' short-term exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a pollutant created by cars, power plants, and other industrial sources.
(Photo: TreeHugger)NO2, a main ingredient in smog, is linked to adverse respiratory health effects such as chronic asthma. In creating a new one-hour NO2 exposure limit of 100 parts per billion (ppb), the EPA noted that the risk of short-term NOX exposure is particularly acute near major highways.
As EPA chief Lisa Jackson said in a statement:
This new one-hour standard is designed toprotect the air we breathe and reduce health threats for millions ofAmericans. For the first time ever, we are working to preventshort-term exposures in high risk NO2 zones like urban communities andareas near roadways. Improving air quality is a top priority for this EPA. We’re movinginto the clean, sustainable economy of the 21st century, defined byexpanded innovation, stronger pollution standards and healthiercommunities.
The rule will be enforced by setting up monitors near roads in areas with more than 500,000 residents, according to the agency, with a deadline of 2013 for the beginning of pollutant tracking. The EPA said it plans to work directly on 40 new monitors for cities and towns with the most significant NO2 exposure.
It's worth noting, however, that major cities have remained out of compliance with EPA air-quality standards for years without losing significant amounts of federal highway money, as the federal government often threatens. Moreover, the EPA has not changed the current annual NO2 standard of 53 ppb.
Stay in touch
Sign up for our free newsletter
More from Streetsblog USA
To Help Save the Planet, Take the ‘Week Without Driving’ Challenge
Former Sierra Club President Ramón Cruz is urging Americans to give up driving for seven days — and support policies to make it optional for everyone.
Labor Gains: NYC Judge Tosses App Giants’ Suit to Stop Deliverista Minimum Wage
Justice Nicholas Moyne cleared the way for a long-delayed wage hike for workers who brave dangerous roads to bring food directly to New Yorkers.
Friday’s Headlines Are Charged Up
Expect a lot fewer ordinary gas stations and a few more Buc-ee's in your area as the electric vehicle transition continues.
Commentary: Let’s Talk About the Real “Fatal Flaw” on Valencia
How many people have to die before professional advocates stop endorsing the Valencia Street "experiment" on people?
Talking Headways Podcast: Beyond Greenways
This week we’re joined by Bob Searns to talk about his new book and grand ideas for walking trails that circle whole regions and more local routes that make up a new mode of green infrastructure in cities.
