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Lead (Pb) Air Pollution

  • Sources of Lead Air Pollution

    Sources of lead emissions vary from from place to place, with highest air concentrations of lead usually found near lead smelters.

Lead Basics

  • How does lead get in the air?
  • What are the effects of lead on human health?
  • What are the effects of lead on ecosystems?
  • How has the amount of lead in air changed over time?

Setting and Reviewing the Standards

  • What are lead air quality standards?
  • How are they developed and reviewed?
  • What scientific and technical information supports review?
  • How else does the EPA regulate emissions of lead (Pb) into the air?

Implementing the Standards

  • Designations: how do we know if an area is not meeting standards?
  • What are the state implementation plan (SIP) requirements?
  • How do states develop SIPs and start improving air quality?

Other Common Air Pollutants

  • Ground-level Ozone
  • Particulate Matter (PM)
  • Carbon Monoxide (CO)
  • Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)
  • Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)

See information on all criteria air pollutants.

Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on May 22, 2025
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