EPA, States Working to Protect Public Health Through Fine Particle Standard
6/29/2004 5:45:00 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: National Desk
Contact: John Millett of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 202-564-7842 or millett.john@epa.gov
WASHINGTON, June 29 /U.S. Newswire/ -- The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) informed states and tribes of the status of counties as the country prepare to meet the nation's first fine particle (PM2.5) air quality standard. These tiny particles - approximately 1/30th the size of a human hair - have been scientifically linked to serious human health problems including premature death from heart and lung disease; aggravation of heart and lung diseases; chronic bronchitis and asthma; increased hospital admissions and doctor and emergency room visits; and absences from work and school.
"Fine-particle pollution represents one of the most significant barriers to clean air facing our nation today," Administrator Mike Leavitt said. "These new particulate health standards, coupled with our efforts to reduce power plant and diesel emissions, are important steps toward meeting our nation's commitment to clean, healthy air."
Press Release: http://releases.usnewswire.com/GetRelease.asp?id=164-06292004