[StBernard] EPA Approves Redesignation of Baton Rouge Area to Attainment for Ozone

[Westley Annis]

	“Baton Rouge has shown that when the city, state, and business community work 
	together, everyone benefits,” said EPA Regional Administrator Al Armendariz. 
	“Cleaner air is an asset for people's health, the environment, and the economy. 
	Louisiana should be proud of this achievement.” 

The Baton Rouge community has worked very hard to improve air quality and achieve attainment for this older Ozone standard.  However,   "".....the federal ozone standards may change, so the Baton Rouge area may at that point find itself back in non-attainment.""  http://www.wbrz.com/news/epa-to-ease-up-ozone-standards-for-baton-rouge
 
There is a similar process for areas that are non-attainment for sulfur dioxide.  In the summer 2011, based on community air monitors, the Louisiana DEQ recommended St. Bernard Parish and West Baton Rouge Parish non-attainment for sulfur dioxide.  EPA is expected to make the formal non-attainment designation in early 2012.  The State is then required to submt a plan on how these areas will improve air quality for sulfur dioxide.     -----  SJK