“The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must soon update national health standards for fine particulate matter air pollution (PM2.5), commonly referred to as soot—a major cause of premature death and a widespread threat to those who suffer from lung and heart disease. The national health standards are critical tools that drive the cleanup of soot pollution across the country. According to the EPA, fine particle pollution:

• Causes early death (from both short- and long-term exposure);
• Causes cardiovascular harm (e.g., heart attacks, stroke, heart disease, congestive heart failure);
• Likely causes respiratory harm (e.g., worsened asthma, worsened COPD, inflammation);
• May cause cancer; and
• May cause developmental and reproductive harm.”
• Sick Of Soot: How The EPA Can Save Lives By Cleaning Up Fine Particle Air Pollution
• Technical Analysis: Health Benefits of Alternative PM2.5 Standards