EPA Says Iowa Meeting Tougher Particulate Pollution Standards

DES MOINES-The entire state of Iowa is meeting tougher federal air standards for particulate pollution - tiny flecks of soots and aerosols that can harm lungs and complicate heart disease, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced this week.

Twenty-two states have at least one or more areas not meeting the standards for the microscopic sized soots, which cause 15,000 premature deaths every year across the nation.

In April, the EPA also announced Iowa was meeting tougher ozone smog standards. Iowa is one of 16 states that meet both standards on a statewide basis.

"Many Iowans don't realize the huge human health benefits by having clean air," said Brian Button, DNR air information specialist. "High levels of particulate pollution is linked to missed days of school and work, doctor and hospital visits, illness and premature death," he said.

Button said those states not meeting the standards are faced with higher business and industry costs and special programs to test vehicle exhaust.

Despite meeting the standards, several days of unhealthy levels of both particulate pollution and summertime ozone smog are monitored in Iowa annually. An increase the number of days could lead to Iowa's air quality not meeting the standards in the future. "Maintaining good air quality in Iowa is clearly an ongoing effort," said Button.

On those days of unhealthy air, the DNR issues health advisories to local media so sensitive populations can limit outdoor activity.

For more information contact Brian Button at 515-281-7832, or at brian.button@dnr.iowa.gov.