Facts on the Baltimore Region’s Air Quality
| Fact #1: | The Baltimore region is not currently meeting federal standards for 8-hour ground-level ozone and fine particulate matter (or fine soot). | | Fact #2: | The Baltimore/Washington D.C./Northern Virginia region was ranked 12th for short-term particle pollution by the American Lung Association in their State of the Air 2005 report. | | Fact #3: | The Baltimore/Washington D.C./Northern Virginia region was ranked 11th for ozone pollution by the American Lung Association’s State of the Air 2005 report. | | Fact #4: | Harford County and Anne Arundel County (both in the Baltimore region) were ranked within the top 25 most polluted counties in the country, in terms of ozone pollution, by the American Lung Association’s State of the Air 2005 report. | | Fact #5: | Baltimore City ranked in the top 25 most polluted jurisdictionss for short-term particle pollution, by the American Lung Association’s State of the Air 2005 report. |
Why should we care?
The issue of air pollution in the Baltimore region is a critical one because ozone and fine particulates can cause respiratory systems and other serious health problems in sensitive populations. In addition, fine particulates can increase rates of cardiovascular illness and may reduce life span.
TIP: You can view www.air-watch.net for the current air quality forecast for Maryland jurisdictions, or to register for air quality forecast updates. |
For more information:
Sara Tomlinson, stomlinson@baltometro.org or 410-732-0500 x1035.
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Last Updated ( Thursday, 18 December 2008 )
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Environmental Planning 
Air
Ozone
