Air Quality Criteria

Air quality criteria are standards established by health and environmental experts to define the safe levels of pollutants in the air. These criteria are based on scientific research to protect public health and the environment from the harmful effects of pollutants like ozone, particulate matter, and nitrogen dioxide. When air quality is within these criteria, it is considered safe for most people. If air quality exceeds these levels, it may pose health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, or those with pre-existing conditions. The criteria guide policies and actions to maintain healthy air.