On October 1, 2015, EPA strengthened the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for ground-level ozone to 0.070 parts per million (ppm), based on extensive scientific evidence about the effects of ozone on public health and welfare. EPA reports that the updated standards will improve public health protection, particularly for at-risk groups including children, older adults, people of all ages who have lung diseases, such as asthma, and people who are active outdoors, especially outdoor workers. They will also improve the health of trees, plants, and ecosystems.
According to the 2013-2015 Design Value (DV) data from the Macon SE ozone monitor, the area’s DV measurement was 0.063 ppm, well below EPA’s threshold of 0.070 ppm. Concurrent with the strengthening of the NAAQS to the 2015 standard, EPA also revoked the 1997 NAAQS for ground-level ozone. In doing so, all Middle Georgia Clean Air Coalition jurisdictions have moved to the Attainment classification for ground-level ozone in the 2015 NAAQS.
