EPA Awards $22 Million for Fine Particle Research

April 5, 2000
EPA has awarded $22.55 million in federal grants to seven university research centers for intensive studies of the components and sources and tiny particles, such as dust and soot, that pollute the air.

These projects are being coordinated with other research activities currently underway and planned to study the health effects associated with exposure to these pollutants.

"EPA relies on the best and latest science to protect public health and the environment," said EPA Administrator Carol M. Browner. "These grants will help research centers provide valuable information about the pollutants that create soot so that we can fully protect public health."

The seven grant recipients are University of California, Washington University, University of Texas, UCCSN/Desert Research Institute, State University of New York, Carnegie Mellon University, University of Maryland.

According to EPA, this grant program is part of the "Supersites" monitoring program. These new monitoring sites will generate more useful information than current monitoring technology about air quality samples.

This improved data will help EPA and the research centers develop techniques for pinpointing the sources, formation and travel of fine particulate matter.

"The program also aims to identify the components of particulate pollution that are most important to health so that we can develop more cost effect control strategies and increase protection of public health," said EPA.

Fine particle pollution is primarily a by-product of combustion from sources such as power plants, industry boilers, incinerators and diesel-powered engines.

Fine particles can penetrate deeply into the lungs and may cause a number of health problems, including increased respiratory disease, impaired lung function and premature death.

Sponsored Recommendations

3 Essential Elements for a Strong Safety Culture

March 13, 2024
Organizations globally have increased their attention on safety culture: trying to figure out what it really is and the aspects that are necessary to develop and sustain it. And...

Making the Case for Occupational Health Software

March 13, 2024
Deciding to invest in Occupational Health (OH) software can be a challenging leap for many organizations. This article will equip businesses with insightful strategies for effectively...

Fighting the Flu: Solutions for the Workplace

March 13, 2024
Seasonal flu continues to wreak considerable havoc both on individual wellness, as well as on our business continuity and productivity. Explore these solutions for protecting ...

Preventing SIFs with Digitization: Reduce Serious Injuries and Fatalities with Technology

March 13, 2024
This eBook discusses the origins of SIF prevention, outlines principles, models and tools available to EHS leaders to better detect and address SIF potential in their business...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!