Environmental Protection Agency Developments Dec. 17, 2003 12/17/2003
From: Suzanne Ackerman, 202-564-7819 or ackerman.suzanne@epa.gov or Wanda Loving, 202-564-7822 or loving.wanda@epa.gov both of the Environmental Protection Agency News Advisory: The Environmental Protection Agency has announced the following developments. For more information on any of these subjects, call the appropriate contact. -- Proposals Requested for Particulate Matter Research Suzanne Ackerman, 202-564-7819 or ackerman.suzanne@epa.gov EPA is seeking research proposals to determine present and future sources of fine and coarse particulate matter (PM) in air, understand how sources vary geographically, and evaluate potential control strategies. The adverse health effects of PM include respiratory and cardiovascular problems. Under the Clean Air Act, EPA has long regulated PM10 - - larger particles up to 10 micrometers wide -- as one of the six criteria air pollutants. In 1997, EPA added new standards for PM 2.5, fine particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers in width. New engine and fuel diesel regulations to take effect in 2007 will further reduce PM emissions. EPA Administrator Mike Leavitt recently signed proposed regulations that will steeply cut sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in power plant emissions, two gases that contribute to PM formation. Six to seven awards will be made for a total of $3 million through EPAs Science to Achieve Results (STAR) program. Research applications must be received by March 31, 2004. More information is available at: http://es.epa.gov/ncer/rfa/2004/2004_source_pm.html . To read the most recent air proposals, go to: http://www.epa.gov/interstateairquality . -- EPA Aging Initiative Listserv Invites More Participation Contact: Wanda Loving, 202-564-7822 or loving.wanda@epa.gov In a continuing effort to reach out to older adults and those who work on their behalf, EPA recently launched a new listserv for its Aging Initiative. Launched in 2002, the Aging Initiative will study the effects of environmental health hazards on older persons and examine the effect that a rapidly aging population will have on the environment. The listserv will provide information on projects, funding opportunities and events taking place related to the Aging Initiative. To subscribe to the Aging Initiative listserv list, go to: http://www.epa.gov/aging and follow the instructions. Earlier this year, EPA held public listening sessions across the country to get input for the National Agenda for the Environment and the Aging. The sessions were attended by close to 1,000 individuals, including Federal, state and local policy-makers, researchers, academics, health care providers, aging and community service providers as well as many older adults. One of the goals of the Aging Initiative is the development of a National Agenda, a draft of which will be released in early 2004. |