What is the purpose of monitoring air quality?

The purpose of monitoring air quality primarily focuses on assessing compliance with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). The NAAQS, established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), set limits on the concentration of specific pollutants in the air to protect public health and the environment. By continuously monitoring air quality, agencies can determine whether the levels of these pollutants are within the established standards. This monitoring is critical for informing policy decisions, regulating emissions, and implementing strategies to reduce air pollution, ultimately leading to healthier communities.

Though enforcing building codes, designing new technologies, and training environmental professionals may all be related to environmental protection and public health initiatives, they do not directly relate to the specific aim of air quality monitoring, which is to evaluate compliance with established air quality standards.