The Obama administration announced a new smog pollution limit yesterday. The standard for US smog levels is now reduced to 70 parts of ground-level ozone per billion, down from 75. Ground-level ozone—the main ingredient in smog—is formed when pollutants such as nitrogen oxides from cars and power plants interact with heat and sunlight. The resulting pollution can trigger health problems. Environmental groups would have liked the limit to be even stricter, with a reduction to 60 parts per billion. A recent study in California shows how important it is to keep reducing air pollution. Rules that regulate air pollution in California have led to a dramatic drop in cancer risks since 1990. The state just reported an amazing 76% decline in cancer risks, thanks to cleaner air.
US government introduces new rules to reduce smog pollution, improving health
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