ES233_24_Air_Pollution_and_Energy_Climate_Policy_10-24-24

Air Pollution Control Act (1955)

The first federal legislation aimed at controlling air pollution in the United States.

Clean Air Act (1963)

A comprehensive federal law that regulates air emissions from stationary and mobile sources.

NAAQs (National Ambient Air Quality Standards)

Standards established by the EPA to protect public health and the environment from air pollutants.

PM2.5

Fine inhalable particles with diameters of 2.5 micrometers and smaller, which can penetrate deep into the lungs.

Ozone (O₃)

A reactive gas that is a significant air pollutant at ground level, formed by reactions between NOx and VOCs in sunlight.

Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂)

A gas produced primarily from burning fossil fuels, which can harm the human respiratory system.

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

A colorless, odorless gas that can be harmful when inhaled in large amounts, primarily produced by vehicles and machinery.

Particulate Matter (PM)

A mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets in the air, which can affect health depending on their size and composition.

State Implementation Plans (SIPs)

Plans developed by states to ensure compliance with federal air quality standards.

Donora Death Fog

A severe air pollution event in Donora, PA in 1948, caused by industrial emissions, resulting in 20 deaths and thousands hospitalized.

Mobile Sources of Air Pollution

Air pollution originating from vehicles such as cars, trucks, and buses.

Stationary Sources of Air Pollution

Air pollution that comes from fixed locations, such as power plants and factories.

The 1970 CAA Amendments

Legislation that established the first effective national air pollution law, creating uniform air quality standards.

Lead (Pb)

A toxic heavy metal with major sources including ore processing and leaded aviation fuel, harmful to the nervous system.

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂)

A reddish-brown gas produced from burning fuel, that can irritate airways and aggravate respiratory diseases.

Acid Rain

Precipitation that is more acidic than normal due to the presence of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the atmosphere.

Cap-and-trade system

An economic approach used to control pollution by providing economic incentives for reducing emissions.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Organic chemicals that can easily become vapors or gases and contribute to air pollution.

Health Impacts of Air Pollution

Negative effects caused by exposure to air pollutants, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and premature death.

Industrial Regulation

Government policies and regulations aimed at controlling pollution from industrial sources.