Benefits
The Advance Program ran from 2012 to 2025 and consisted of more than 600 programs to support efforts to attain and maintain the NAAQS. This website serves as a historical record of those plans. EPA is no longer updating program content as of June 12, 2025.
Advance Partners identify the following benefits of the Advance Program:
- Cost of remaining in attainment is less than cost of meeting nonattainment/maintenance area requirements
- Reduce emissions, improve air quality, improve public health, achieve climate co-benefits
- Provides forum for community and stakeholder collaboration on clean air and related issues
- Participation with EPA provides credibility and demonstrates the area’s clean air commitment
- Access to EPA expertise and technical assistance opportunities
- Monthly webinars and collaboration with other Advance areas
- EPA monthly newsletter for Advance community provides info on grants, trainings, and webinars
- Advance areas have flexibility to include broad array of programs and initiatives
- Air quality, sustainable economic development, energy efficiency and climate, air toxics, cleaner transportation, etc.
- Learn best practices from other Advance areas through collaboration and EPA index of programs and initiatives in previously submitted Advance plans.
- Educates public and community about air quality and health
- Promotes positive actions by industry, government, public stakeholders
- Commitment to update Advance annual plan serves as a driver for action and stakeholder input