Proposal to Reduce NAAQS for Ozone

Despite recommendations from by EPA’s panel of science advisors, national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for ground level ozone were set to 75 ppb instead of the recommended range of 60 to 70 ppb in 2008. After the Bush administration set this standard, the EPA proposed revisions to the NAAQS on January 6, 2010 to be lowered to the recommended range of 60 to 70 ppb. Scientific and technical data indicated that healthy adults exposed to ozone in concentrations of 60 ppb were being affected. Children and adults with lung disease were found to have greater health concerns as a result of high ozone exposure. Ozone exposure has been associated with increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, medication use, doctor visits, and emergency room visits. Research also showed that not only public health was being affected but also sensitive vegetation and ecosystems.

While many environmental groups and organizations are embracing this change, there is opposition from industries contributing to the ozone problem. Currently there are 300 counties that violate the current standard set under the Bush administration and with this proposed change this number could more than double. Roanoke County would be in violation after this change takes place. Ozone poses an obvious major public health concern at higher levels and many people opposed to stricter regulations are putting a price on public health, which I believe is wrong. Yes, stricter regulations will cost industry and motorists an estimated $19 billion to $90 billion, according to the EPA, but at the same time lower ozone concentrations will result in billions of dollars in health care savings. By investing in best available technologies today, the public will benefit by having a higher standard of living and reduced health care costs. A major theme relevant to this proposed change is cross boundary issues. For example, Roanoke County is greatly affected by pollution carried from other states and in order to meet stricter regulations polluters in other states and counties must invest in better technology to reduce emissions that contribute to ozone emissions.

Even though it will require costly measures to reduce ozone standards to the proposed range of 60 to 70 ppb, I believe it is necessary to lower the current standard to ensure a safer environment for everyone. By lowering NAAQS for ozone, pollutants that form ozone, nitrogen oxide and volatile organic compounds (VOC), will be reduced as well. Under the Bush administration the standard for ozone was not set strict enough but I believe this proposed change will greatly benefit areas affected by high levels of ozone concentrations.