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01/30/2023
On Jan. 27, 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published a proposed revision to the particulate matter (PM) National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS).
The DNR Air Management program will host an informational session on Feb. 21, 2023 from 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. to provide an overview of the proposal and how it impacts Wisconsin. Registration and additional information for the session is available on the Air Management’s public input webpage.
PM is classified into two different sizes; PM10 and PM2.5. PM10 includes particles 10 micrometers in diameter and smaller, while PM2.5 consists of particles 2.5 micrometers in diameter and smaller. PM2.5 poses a health risk because of its ability to penetrate deep into the respiratory tract and the bloodstream, especially for individuals with heart and lung ailments.
The proposed rule would make the PM2.5 annual standard more stringent while retaining the 24-hour PM2.5 and PM10 standards.
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Current standard
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New proposed standard range
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PM2.5 annual standard
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12 µg/m³ (set in 2012)
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9-10 µg/m³
(taking comment on 8-11 µg/m³)
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PM2.5 24-hour standard
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35 µg/m³ (set in 2006)
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No change
(taking comment on 25-35 µg/m³)
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PM10 24-hour standard
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150 µg/m³ (set in 1987)
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No change
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In addition to the revision to the annual standard, EPA is proposing updates to monitoring requirements.
The EPA is accepting public comment on this proposed revision until March 28, 2023. Visit EPA’s website for a summary and complete information on this proposal.
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