I lead ELPC’s community science air quality monitoring project, which measures PM2.5 pollution in Chicago neighborhoods. We know that communities along highways and near construction sites are consistently burdened with unhealthy air. EPA is failing to act to protect our neighbors in Chicago and across the country.
The EPA made its decision to leave existing air quality standards in place despite the findings of career scientists and the recommendations of an independent 20-member panel of experts that the current standard is not strong enough to protect public health.
Moreover, this decision was made against the backdrop of a global respiratory pandemic that highlights environmental racism in this country. Black and brown communities are disproportionately affected by high rates of respiratory issues due to constant exposure to higher levels of air pollution.
That’s why we are calling on the EPA to do its job and follow the science to set stronger National Air Quality standards for particulate matter pollution to protect public health. We urge you to join us!
Thank you for your engagement and support.
Tiffany Werner
Environmental Law & Policy Center
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