EPA approves redesignation of Atlanta Area to attainment for the 2008 8-Hour ozone standard

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently took final action to approve the state of Georgia’s request to redesignate the Atlanta Area to attainment for the 2008 8-hour ozone standard.

The decision is based on air quality monitoring data for 2013, 2014, and 2015 that shows that the area
meets the standard.

The Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA Metropolitan Statistical Area has collaborated with EPA and other stakeholders to develop plans for achieving attainment standards for ozone for over 20 years. The areas of Bartow, Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Newton, Paulding and Rockdale counties attained the 2008 8-Hour Ozone Standard despite significant population growth.

Ground level ozone is not emitted directly into the air, but is created by chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOC) in the presence of sunlight. NOx and VOC are contained in, among other things, emissions from industrial facilities and electric utilities, motor vehicle exhaust, gasoline vapors and chemical solvents.

Breathing ozone can contribute to a number of health problems that include chest pain, coughing, throat irritation and congestion. It can exacerbate bronchitis, emphysema and asthma. Additionally, ground level ozone can reduce lung function and inflame the linings of the lungs. Repeated exposure may permanently scar lung tissue.