Groups Call for Tougher Air Pollution Health Standards
In a report released Wednesday, the American Lung Association in California, the Clean Air Task Force and Earthjustice said that as many as 4,230 premature deaths could be prevented in urban Southern California if the Environmental Protection Agency strengthens federal health standards for fine-particle material, like diesel soot and other potentially harmful pollutants. Research has linked the fine particulate matter to serious health ailments, including heart attacks and lung problems, and higher death rates. Last month, the Obama administration missed a statutory deadline to implement new standards for the fine pollutants.
- "AIR POLLUTION: Tougher Standards Would Save Lives, Groups Say" (Danelski, Riverside Press-Enterprise, 11/16).