Environmental Progress - Fall 2004

Illinois EPA Recognizes Improving Outdoor Air Quality

2003 annual air quality report released

The Illinois EPA's latest Annual Air Quality Report, for 2003, showed Illinois continues to experience improved outdoor air quality.

Highlighted in the report is data collected from the State's extensive air monitoring network, showing the state experienced good or moderate air quality 94 percent of the days in 2003. Additionally, just 19 days in 2003 reached the category of "unhealthy for sensitive groups" and no days were in the "unhealthy" category.

"We are committed to providing a clean and healthy environment to Illinois residents," said Governor Rod Blagojevich. "Our work will continue as we look to further reduce air pollution throughout the State."

"We continue to be pleased with the improved air quality within the State and especially in our larger metropolitan areas," said Director Cipriano. "This improvement is the result of years of hard work by regulators, businesses and individual citizens who have committed themselves to improving the State's environment."

The 2003 Air Quality Report provides a comprehensive description of air quality in Illinois. The data was gathered at locations exceeding 80 different sites and utilizing more than 200 monitoring instruments. The Illinois EPA monitors for numerous pollutants, including federal criteria pollutants Ð ozone, particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and lead. Additionally, the State monitors for air toxins and other metals in our environment.

Illinois credits the improved air quality to a number of regulatory changes that have been enacted in the past decade. The Illinois EPA has also been a proponent of a variety of proactive voluntary programs, resulting in significant reductions in air pollutants. Those programs include the Illinois Green Fleets program, the Illinois Clean School Bus Program and the Green Pays on Green Days program, which is co-sponsored by the Illinois EPA and Partners for Clean Air.

"We are proud of our achievements in air quality; however, the State continues to face challenges with more stringent air quality standards," added Director Cipriano. "With the continued commitment of businesses and citizens, we are sure to achieve the best air quality this State has ever experienced."

Illinois officials expect to meet the federal one-hour standard for ozone following the 2005 ozone season. Additionally, work will continue to bring the State in compliance with the federal 8-hour and fine particulate matter standards by the federal deadlines, which have not been officially announced.

The 2003 Annual Air Quality Report is available on the Illinois EPA web site. Printed copies may be requested from the Illinois EPA's Bureau of Air at (217) 782-9315.