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The Ozone Battle Continues

As if you didn't know already. Now, though, it's official. Many counties in California violate the 8-hour ozone limit. This USEPA letter published earlier this month gives the details.

The Environmental Defense Fund doesn't think the limits are enough. They think the testing parameter should be one hour instead of eight, that the method of testing should be different, and more aggressive emission reductions should be in place.

Only the Utility Air Regulatory Group supported the change. It was hard to find this group on the internet, but you can read the group's 1997 air-quality comments here.

If you'd like to see the USEPA's measurement of your air quality, click on this map to find yours.

Why is this issue important? Some believe that low-atmosphere ozone is one of the primary causes of asthma. The EDF's testimony cites individuals who have died from the combination of asthma and ozone. Others, like the UARG, don't see the connection.

If you'd like to find out more, here's what the USEPA is doing to curb ozone.