EPA's Annual Air Quality Report Warns of Upcoming Climate Challenges

Despite long-term improvements in air quality, recent increases in certain pollutants necessitate continued efforts to safeguard public health.

• By Robert Yaniz Jr.
• Aug 16, 2024

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its annual report, titled “Our Nation’s Air: Trends Through 2023,” which details trends in air quality through 2023. Despite a 78 percent reduction in the combined emissions of six key pollutants since 1970, recent increases in certain pollutants highlight ongoing challenges related to climate change.

According to a recent release, the EPA’s report emphasizes the long-term success of the Clean Air Act, noting that air pollutant concentrations have significantly declined over the past few decades. For example, sulfur dioxide levels have dropped by 92 percent, and carbon monoxide concentrations have fallen by 79 percent, alongside economic growth throughout the U.S.

However, the report also underscores that, since 2022, national average concentrations of pollutants like carbon monoxide, ground-level ozone and fine particulate matter have risen. The EPA attributes this uptick to the effects of wildfires and other climate-related factors, despite continued reductions in emissions from transportation, power generation and industrial sources.

“This interactive report gives us a valuable look at the long-term progress EPA and our state, tribal, community and industry partners have achieved. Between 1970 and 2023, the combined emissions of six key pollutants dropped by 78 percent, while the U.S. economy remained strong – growing over 320 percent over the same time,” EPA Assistant Administrator Joe Goffman said in a statement. “As the impacts of climate change increasingly affect air quality in the United States, EPA will continue to work to assure clean air for all.”

The Biden-Harris Administration has initiated several measures to combat air pollution and climate change, including new regulations for methane emissions, updated pollution standards for vehicles, and substantial infrastructure investments through the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. These initiatives aim to reduce air pollution, promote clean energy and ensure environmental justice.

For more information on “Our Nation’s Air: Trends Through 2023,” visit the EPA website.