Abstract

On 21 September 2006, the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) completed a comprehensive, multiyear review of its particulate matter (PM) standards, issuing new standards for fine particles (PM2.5) and inhalable coarse particles (PM10). The 24-hour fine particle standard was lowered from 65 ìg/m3 to 35ìg/m3, and the annual fine particle standard remained unchanged at 15 ìg/m3. The Agency also retained the existing national 24-hour PM10 standard of 50 ìg/m3. The annual PM10 standard was revoked because available evidence generally did not suggest a link to health problems.

The process for revising the PM standards involved the review of thousands of scientific studies and response to approximately 120,000 comments submitted by industry, environmental groups, public health advocates, government agencies, and the general public. As part of the literature review process, USEPA provisionally assessed new, peer-reviewed studies about PM and health to ensure that the Agency was aware of new science before revising the standards, and will also consider these new studies during the next review of the PM standards.

Particulate matter pollution is common to many of the world’s megacities, and is associated with significant and sometimes severe public health impacts. These include decreased lung function, aggravated asthma, development of chronic bronchitis, irregular heartbeat, nonfatal heart attacks, and premature death in people with heart or lung disease. Many countries have yet to establish ambient standards for PM, though they face significant health impacts from this important pollutant. The new levels announced by US EPA, and their scientific foundation, could serve as guidelines for Asian countries to consider as they take steps to improve urban and regional air quality. Health-based air quality standards combined with a comprehensive implementation program can result in major improvements in air quality and public health.

Presentation: http://www.cleanairnet.org/baq2006/1757/docs/SP1_2.ppt