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PM2.5 designation updates

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has submitted Michigan’s Recommended Area Designations for the 2024 Annual PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standard to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 

The revised standard for fine particulate matter is a positive step that will protect more Americans from pollution hazards. The designation recommendation from EGLE is an important step in meeting the new, more stringent, standard as the multi-year implementation process moves forward.

EGLE’s Air Quality Division analyzed available information including air monitoring data, pollutant emissions from industry, meteorological data, and more in developing nonattainment recommendations.  Based on the analysis, EGLE has recommended that Kalamazoo and Wayne counties be designated as nonattainment for the 2024 PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standard. USEPA will consider our analyses and recommendations in determining final designations for areas in the state.  This will include areas already meeting the standard and areas where action will be needed to further improve particulate pollution.

Next steps

Now that the recommendation has been submitted, the USEPA has one year to review the state’s recommendation and take final action.  USEPA may agree with the state’s recommendation or may make alternate designations. There is an option to extend the decision for an additional year, if necessary.

More Information

A PM2.5 Attainment Status Fact Sheet provides more information about PM2.5, the National Ambient Air Quality Standard, and what went into the recommendation decision.

Questions on the EGLE designation update may be sent to Marissa Vaerten at VaertenM@Michigan.gov.