Taking a Deep Breath: Air Quality Awareness Week 2024

This May 6th through 10th, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is hosting Air Quality Awareness Week (AQAW) [1]. This annual event is a timely reminder about the importance of clean air and the things we can all do to protect it.

This year’s AQAW coincides with World Asthma Day on May 7th, making it an especially relevant opportunity to learn more about how air quality impacts our health.

Why Clean Air Matters

Clean air is essential for our health and well-being. According to the EPA, air pollution can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory illness, heart disease, and even cancer [1].

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US EPA Finalizes New Standards for Harmful Particulate Matter (PM2.5)

In a landmark decision, on February 7th, 2024 the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) unveiled stricter regulations for fine particulate matter, a major air pollutant linked to numerous health problems. This marks the first update to the EPA’s standards in over a decade, and officials anticipate it will save thousands of American lives annually. Fine particulate matter, often referred to as “soot,” penetrates deep into lungs and even enters the bloodstream, posing significant health risks.

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