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Particulate Matter (PM) Pollution

  • Most PM particles form in the atmosphere as a result of chemical reactions between pollutants.

    1/6/2023 - EPA announces proposed decision to revise primary annual air quality standard for fine particle pollution (PM2.5)

Particulate Matter Basics

  • What is PM, and how does it get into the air?
  • What are the harmful effects of PM?
  • What is being done to reduce PM pollution?
    • How can I reduce my exposure?

Setting and Reviewing the Standards

  • What are PM standards?
  • How are they developed and reviewed?
  • What scientific and technical information supports reviews?

Implementing the Standards

  • Designations: How do we know if an area is not meeting standards?
  • What are the state implementation plan (SIP) requirements?
  • How do states develop SIPs and start improving air quality?

Air Quality Where You Live

  • View current and forecasted air quality conditions across the U.S.
  • Explore current locations of wildfires
  • Review data from air quality monitors across the world

Visit AirNow.gov

Note: AirNow is experiencing extremely heavy traffic and may be slow. Visit an alternate map showing air quality from fires.

Wildfire Smoke

  • Learn how smoke from fires can affect your health.
  • Learn about steps you can take to protect yourself.

Other Common Air Pollutants

  • Ground-level Ozone
  • Carbon Monoxide (CO)
  • Lead (Pb)
  • Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)
  • Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)

See information on all criteria pollutants.

Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on January 6, 2023
United States Environmental Protection Agency

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