Florida Achieves Air Quality Milestone for Fifth Year Running
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In a significant environmental achievement, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has confirmed that Florida has met all federal air quality standards for the fifth consecutive year. This accomplishment places Florida as the largest U.S. state to consistently maintain these air quality benchmarks, highlighting the effectiveness of its pollution controls and collaborative efforts across various sectors.
“Florida’s continued success in meeting federal air quality standards shows that protecting our environment goes hand-in-hand with supporting a strong economy,” said DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert. “By working with communities, businesses and partners across the state, we’re keeping our air clean, our residents healthy and our economy thriving.”
The Clean Air Act mandates the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to establish National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for six major pollutants: carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, particle pollution, and sulfur dioxide. Since 2000, Florida has achieved a 78 percent reduction in industrial emissions, and ozone levels have nearly halved over the past two decades. This progress is the result of longstanding partnerships between the DEP and various stakeholders to reduce emissions and enhance air quality.
Florida boasts one of the most extensive air quality monitoring networks in the country, consisting of 180 monitors spread across 90 sites. This network not only meets but often surpasses federal requirements, providing accurate and timely air quality data to residents and communities statewide.
Read More Here
