The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) invites residents to hear updates on fine particulate matter air pollution in North Carolina.
Webinar: North Carolina Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Update
When: 6:30-7:00 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 19, 2024
Fine particulate matter, or PM2.5, is any extremely small particle emitted by cars, industry, fires or other sources. Breathing air with high levels of PM2.5 for extended periods is linked to health effects including shortness of breath and heart conditions. After reviewing the latest scientific evidence, the Environmental Protection Agency in May tightened the annual standard for PM2.5 from 12.0 micrograms per cubic meter of air to 9.0 micrograms per cubic meter. EPA says that the new standard will save lives, reduce cases of asthma, prevent lost workdays and save billions in public health spending, especially in communities of color and other vulnerable populations.
During the informational webinar, DAQ staff will discuss North Carolina’s efforts to meet the new federal standard, including reviewing the impact smoke from the 2023 Canadian wildfires had on the state’s air quality. The presentation will also discuss the key sources of PM2.5 emissions in the state. The informational webinar will also review the Air Quality Index, how to check air quality forecasts, efforts by DAQ to address air pollution from wildfires and ways the residents can protect themselves from the harmful effects of smoke.
More information about the new PM2.5 air quality standard is on the Division’s website at deq.nc.gov/PM2.5Updates.
Registration is required. Webinar information will be sent upon online registration.
Live Spanish interpretation will be available during the webinar. Please indicate when you register if you require interpretation services. If you require Spanish interpretation and are unable to join the online webinar, please use this Spanish webinar call-in information:
Spanish call-in: North Carolina Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Update
Join by phone
+1-415-655-0003 US Toll
+1-904-900-2303 United States Toll (Jacksonville)
Webinar number/Access Code: 2428 326 4878
Webinar password: 2473