What Does
National Ambient Air Quality Standards Mean?
The National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) are determined by the EPA in accordance with the Clean Air Act. Ambient Air Quality Standards include primary standards directed at protecting public health and secondary standards aimed at promoting public welfare. Standards have been drawn up for six “criteria” pollutants.
Safeopedia Explains National Ambient Air Quality Standards
The pollutants covered by NAAQS are Carbon Monoxide, Lead, Nitrogen Dioxide, Ozone, Particulate Pollution and Sulfur Dioxide. The standards are expressed as parts per million, parts per billion or micrograms per cubic meter of air. A Menu of Control Measures has been compiled by the EPA with a list of workable emission reduction measures and provides information as to how effective they are, and what cost implications they entail. This information can be used to develop strategies, plans and programs aimed at reducing emissions.