In March 2008, ozone standards became more stringent. Why? Science shows us that even lower levels of air pollution can harm our health than previously thought. Read what therse changes mean to Georgia, and to you.

What changed?

On March 12, 2008, EPA strengthened the air quality standards for ground-level ozone, a primary component of smog. These new standards mean that lower levels of ozone will now be reported as unhealthy in the daily smog forecasts and in the Air Quality Index (AQI). The new "Code Orange" (101 - 150) level of the ozone AQI reflects ozone at 0.075 parts per million (ppm) or higher. The old standard was 0.084 ppm over an 8-hour average.

This more stringent standard is likely to result in more Smog Alert days than in previous years.The new scale is already incorporated into the AQI and does not change the fact that Smog Alerts are issued when a day is forecast to be Code Orange, Code Red or Code Purple.

Why was the change made?

There is increasing scientific evidence that shows that even low levels of exposure to ground-level ozone can be harmful. After a review of more than 1,700 new scientific studies, the EPA determined that new standards will yield health benefits of between $2 billion and $19 billion.The benefits include preventing cases of bronchitis, aggravated asthma and hospital and emergency room visits.

Breathing air containing ground-level ozone reduces lung function and increases respiratory symptoms for all, even the most healthy people.Ozone exposure may even contribute to premature death, especially with people suffering from heart and lung disease. Repeated exposure to ozone also damages sensitive vegetation and trees, leading to reduced growth and increased sensitivity to disease and pests.

Who should care the most?

Under the revised AQI, ozone levels above 0.075 ppm would be considered in the “Code Orange,” or “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category. “Sensitive groups” are defined as active children and adults who are outdoors and likely to inhale ozone and people with respiratory ailments such as asthma.Some people suffer consequences even on Moderate air quality days.