How do Particulate Matter and Fine Particles Effect the Environment?
• The same fine particles linked to serious health effects are also a major cause of visibility impairment in many parts of the U.S. • In many parts of the U.S. the visual range has been reduced 70% from natural conditions. In the east, the current range is only 14-24 miles vs. a natural visibility of 90 miles. In the west, the current range is 33-90 miles vs. a natural visibility of 140 miles. • Fine particles can remain suspended in the air and travel long distances. For example, a puff of exhaust from a diesel truck in Los Angeles can end up over the Grand Canyon, where one-third of the haze comes from Southern California. Emissions from a Los Angeles oil refinery can form particles that in a few days will effect visibility in the Rocky Mountain National Park. Twenty percent of the problem on dirtiest days in that Park is attributed to Los Angeles-generated smog. • Airborne particles can also cause soiling and damage to materials. What Improvements Would Result from EPA’s New Standa
