PHOENIX (June 20, 2019) – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing the Phoenix-Mesa ozone nonattainment area, in Maricopa County be redesignated to attainment status in accordance with the 2008 Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards. Once certified data is confirmed to have met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards by the July 20, 2018 attainment date, Phoenix-Mesa will be categorized as a “Moderate” attainment area.
Maricopa County Air Quality Department will continue current practices including inspections and overseeing permits. All existing rules and regulations will still apply.
“EPA's determination that the area has attained the 2008 standard is a major milestone in the efforts to accomplishing clean air,” Maricopa County Board of Supervisor Chairman (District 3), Bill Gates said. “Community participation has been so important in helping to make Maricopa County a healthier place to live, work and play. This is a sign that Maricopa County and the Air Quality Department are moving in the right direction, but we still must remain vigilant in our efforts.”
The Clean Air Act requires the EPA to establish national primary and secondary standards for pollutants that cause or contribute to air pollution that is expected to endanger public health, such as ozone. Determination of an area’s attainment status was based on certified data collected from 2015-2017, at state and local monitoring stations.
Maricopa County is making progressive strides to cleaner air, however in 2015 the EPA lowered the Ozone Health Standard from 0.75 to 0.70. Because of the more challenging standard the county is in nonattainment of the newer, stricter 2015 Ozone Standard.
For more information, contact Communications Supervisor Bob Huhn, 602-506-6713
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About Maricopa County Air Quality Department
The mission of the Maricopa County Air Quality Department is to improve the air of Maricopa County so customers, residents and visitors can live, work and play in a healthy environment. The department is governed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors and follows air quality standards set forth by the federal Clean Air Act.
The department offers air quality information and resources on its Clean Air Make More website. Visit CleanAirMakeMore.com to learn more.
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