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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.

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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:

  • What crystalline silica is and the potential health impacts of long-term exposure.

  • Current gaps in monitoring and regulations.

  • 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

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