Air Quality
On this page you will find information and resources on air quality issues related to PM2.5 (particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns).
Public health impacts of crystalline silica...
...and what the state can do about it.
As our state grows and the need for construction materials that aggregate and concrete operations provide also increases. These operations, including quarries, concrete batch plants, and sand and gravel mines, emit fine particulate matter (PM) that when inhaled can cause severe health problems.
TRAM has produced the following resource that explains the following:
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What crystalline silica is and the potential health impacts of long-term exposure.
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Current gaps in monitoring and regulations.
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Solutions that state and local leaders can implement to improve the public health and safety of Texans living in proximity to APOs.
We must hold our state officials and agencies accountable to protecting the health and well-being of our communities.
Click to view full resource.
Projected Dates for PM2.5 Implementation
On February 7, 2024, the U.S. EPA strengthened the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for fine particle pollution (PM2.5) by revising lowering the allowable level of PM2.5 from 12.0 to 9.0 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3).
This decision kicks-off a multi-year process to bring all the states into attainment with the new standard. Below are projected dates for PM2.5 implementation. Learn more about the attainment process on the EPA's website here.
February 2024
April 2024
July / August 2024
December 2024
February 2025
October 2025
March 2026
February 2027
September 2027
December 2032
Final NAAQS revision by US EPA
Effective date of revised NAAQS
Designation recommendations - informal comment period
Anticipated agenda for desination recommendations
State designations due to US EPA
120-day letter from US EPA to Governor
Final designations effective
Infrastructure and transport State Implementation Plan (SIP) revisions due
Non-attainment area SIP revisions due
Attainment date